Richards Buell Sutton LLP Business Law Clinic provides law students with an educational opportunity to use their substantive understanding of business law in a clinical setting for the benefit of the public. This clinical setting offers students a unique opportunity to develop a number of practical and legal skills. In addition to providing a client facing experiential learning environment for students, the Clinic serves another important purpose by expanding access to legal services for a range of business and non-profit organizations.
The Clinic provides business-oriented legal advice to small businesses, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations, and individuals who cannot otherwise afford such legal advice. The purpose of the Clinic is to provide law students with an opportunity to use their substantive understanding of law in a clinical setting for the benefit of the public. This clinical setting allows students to gain practice skills along with a deeper understanding of professional ethics and professional responsibility.
In addition to the experiential learning component of the Clinic, students also participate in seminar discussions led by Clinic Adjunct Professors, Tyson Gratton, Gavyn Backus, and John Alsbergas
Meet the Clinic Adjuncts
Tyson Gratton
Tyson leverages his expertise to advise clients on managing corporate governance matters, negotiating contracts and licensing agreements, navigating growth financing, and facilitating corporate commercial matters. He also advises clients on the drafting of employment agreements, negotiating contractor relationships, and managing privacy issues.
In his practice, Tyson works alongside companies from across Canada, the United States, and abroad who are creators, developers, integrators, innovators, distributors, and service providers. As a former television executive, Tyson knows what it takes to bring a diverse team of creatives, trades, and professionals together to bring a product to market.
Tyson received both his Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor from the University of British Columbia.
Gavyn Backus
Outside of the legal profession, Gavyn has worked as a strategic advisor to startups. He has experience in marketing, community engagement, and project management for various non-for-profit organizations, and is currently on the Board of Directors of The Beaumont Studios in Vancouver. He also has a background in science. Using his diverse experience, Gavyn applies a methodical approach to provide clients with practical legal advice.
John Alsbergas
John advises growing and established companies in a variety of industry sectors, including technology, cannabis, life sciences and natural resources.
The Clinic is generously supported by:
