Rob Rakochey, a formerly acclaimed partner at Field Law in Alberta, Canada, tarnished his illustrious 34-year career following the release of an inappropriately worded email sent to dozens of his colleagues. Rakochey, who had recently been honoured with the King’s counsel (KC) title, resigned from his partnership at Field Law after the controversial correspondence.
The email contained several unsavoury comments, some targeting women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as broader attempts at humour in poor taste. Notably disrespectful comments included Rakochey suggesting that those planning to repeatedly nod at his announcements do so with closed mouths to avoid giving the wrong impression, “unless you are a person with a vagina, in which case I am in Room 408.” You can read the full email here.
The email, which reportedly covered 2,000 words, continued with similarly offensive content, including discussions of golf tournament attendees confiscating a woman’s camera filled with inappropriate photos and suggestions for guests’ behaviour at a celebration event.
Jeremiah Kowalchuk, the managing partner at Field Law, declared that the email’s contents were “deeply disturbing” and did not align with the firm’s values. He distanced the firm from the events, stating that the email’s contents were “not sanctioned and relate to a social event that has nothing to do with Field Law.”
Kellinde Wrightson, a lawyer and professor at the University of Calgary, also critiqued Rakochey’s actions, calling the email “divisive… disrespectful and misogynistic.” Wrightson asserted that the email’s content not only alienated members of the queer community but also catered to damaging and outdated perspectives.
In the wake of the controversy, Rakochey may face professional consequences, as his actions could be in breach of the Law Society of Alberta’s code of conduct, which condemns dishonourable and ill behaviour, whether privately or professionally. The Law Society has refrained from commenting on any complaints against Rakochey.
This saga is a testament to the long-lasting professional implications of insensitive behaviour, further amplified by digital communications medium that can quickly disseminate the evidence of such indiscretions.
For a full reading of the case, you can refer to the detailed coverage by Above The Law.