Ryan J. Black, partner at DLA Piper (Canada)'s Vancouver office, was appointed as Clinic Adjunct in the Business Law Clinic for the 2019/2020 academic year. Ryan worked with the Business Law Clinic until 2022/2023. He has extensive experience in technology-related business law and is currently a member of the Dean's Advisory Committee for the Centre. Additionally, in 2017 he was named as one of Canada’s leading lawyers under 40 in Lexpert’s annual Rising Stars edition.
Why did you decide to join the Clinic?
First, as someone who grew up academically inclined in the interior of BC, teaching at UBC has truthfully been one of my lifelong goals. It’s incredible when one’s goals and opportunities line up, though, because the teaching opportunity mixed with the clinical portion of this Adjunct position really creates the best of both worlds for me. I’ve guest lectured at the clinic for a few years, usually on the topic of technology and intellectual property basics, and have always felt I can contribute more – in my practicing role, I routinely mentor students and associates, and my practice requires me to be conversant not only in giving advice to clients on incorporation, commercial contract, employment, and generalist solicitor matters, but also in guiding those who are learning to do so themselves. Joining the clinic allows me to pursue my passion for teaching substantive legal knowledge while applying and passing along practical skills I’ve learned in my legal career.
Last Updated: August 2019
