Chief executive officer and managing partner Lydia Bugden, and Halifax partner Daniela Bassan, join 12 others in Nova Scotia in receiving a Queen’s Counsel designation, as announced by Minister of Justice and Attorney General Mark Furey. This recognition is given to those who demonstrate professional integrity and have made significant contributions to the practice of law as well as the community at large.

Lydia became Stewart McKelvey’s CEO in 2015, making her the first female CEO of a law firm in Atlantic Canada. She has a forward-thinking commitment to innovation in the practice of law and an unfailing commitment to supporting our communities, serving as president, chair and board member of over half a dozen organizations. Atlantic Business Magazine recognized Lydia as a Top 50 CEO in 2018 and 2019.

Called to the Nova Scotia bar in 2003, Daniela works with diverse clients in complex commercial litigation. She is chair of the firm’s Intellectual Property Practice Group and has been listed by Benchmark Canada and Lexpert as a leader in Intellectual Property Law.  She is also active both inside and outside of the legal community, most recently as vice chair of the board of directors for 2b theatre company.