A Morinville lawyer has been appointed to the role of a provincial judge.
On Wednesday (May 4), Gord Putnam was one of 12 Albertans who were appointed to become judges by Tyler Shandro, minister of justice and solicitor general. This marks the most judicial appointments at one time in Alberta's history.
Putnam will be leaving Putnam Law after over 25 years of service to Morinville, Gibbons, Sturgeon County and all neighbouring towns.
“The interest was always there in the back of my mind. Really it's a path you can't plan for, it more or less presents itself if you happen to be in the right place at the right time. For me, I got my Queens Counsel appointment in 2009 [and] that was kind of the first step to recognize that perhaps you might make a good judge someday,” said Putnam.
In Alberta, lawyers with at least 10 years at the bar can apply to become a provincial court judge. Putnam said his experience will be an asset in his new role.
“It’s more than just doing the work. It’s the relationships you create with people. My advice [to young lawyers] would be, like I did, live in the community, immerse yourself in all things that the community is involved with,” explained Putnam.
Putnam has been appointed to the Edmonton region.
“I’m honoured to represent the people of our region,” said Putnam.
Lawyer Samantha Huculak will now manage Putnam Law.