Austin Ward is a lawyer in Field Law’s Canmore office whose practice focuses on labour and employment, intellectual property law, and dispute resolution. He has experience representing clients in all levels of Court in Alberta and in the Federal Court of Canada, as well as before various administrative bodies and tribunals. Austin prides himself on being an effective negotiator and shrewd advocate for his clients – both inside and outside the courtroom.

Austin’s clients range from individuals and local start-up businesses to large corporations and public institutions in the Bow Valley and across Alberta and British Columbia. Austin understands the legal and business issues involved in providing strategic advice tailored to his clients’ needs. He advises clients on a wide variety of legal issues, including:

• Employee discipline and termination
• Severance negotiations
• Workplace human rights and privacy issues
• Protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights
• Patent, trademark, and copyright disputes
• Obtaining and resisting applications for urgent injunctive relief
• Cyberlaw disputes, including online defamation cases and obtaining Norwich Orders to identify anonymous wrongdoers

Austin’s practice is client-focused and centred on his communication and problem-solving skills. Although he has extensive courtroom experience, Austin prefers a collaborative approach to dispute resolution where possible so that he can determine the most practical and cost-effective solution for his clients.

Prior to attending law school, Austin spent several years working as a server and bartender in Canmore. During this time, he developed a passion for the hospitality industry and the Bow Valley business community. Austin credits his time working in restaurants and bars for his decision to pursue law. He views the practice of law as the ultimate service industry and brings his passion for hospitality to his legal practice.

Value to Clients

“I am obsessed with client service. I prefer in person visits and phone calls so that I can get to know my clients and their businesses personally. Forming personal connections with my clients helps me understand their goals and priorities so that I can provide the best advice possible tailored to their business.”

Outside the Office

When Austin isn’t taking advantage of the Bow Valley’s incredible local restaurant scene or honing his skills in his kitchen or behind the bar, he enjoys travelling and exploring the West Coast and Rocky Mountains with his partner and Golden Retriever, Yuki.