Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you create comics?
Using art to convey information and meaning is itself an art.
My first experience combining law and comics was in Mumbai, the summer between undergrad and my first year of law school. I was an intern with the Human Rights Law Network, where I designed and illustrated a guide to domestic violence legislation. The intended audience had limited literacy skills, so I created cartoon images to get the point across.
I indulged this penchant for comics throughout my career. My business cards and social media avatars have been a cartoonified image of my face since day one. As part of my Bencher Election 2019 campaign, I published daily comics highlighting various issues in the legal profession. In December 2019, the Canadian Law Blog Awards recognized my Landlord & Tenant 101 Comic Series in the “Best Innovative Projects” category.
Most recently, comics have been my preferred medium to offer commentary about current events. I chronicle and analyze the world as I see it, with a touch of comedy. My objective is to prompt critical thought about established power structures that exacerbate injustice and inequality.
What’s your motivation?
I deal with lots of lousy situations in my day job as a lawyer. Don’t get me wrong—I enjoy helping individual clients resolve their specific problems. But my work doesn’t fix the underlying systemic issues. It gets disheartening to observe the status quo, which benefits some people at others’ expense.
They say, “If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.” This has certainly been my experience. I use humour to process and cope with the harsh realities of life.
How do you decide on the subject matter?
It depends. My Twitter feed inspires plenty of comics, based on a combination of what interests me and what’s trending. Comics are an effective way to highlight contemporary issues and provide my perspective. With enough thought and effort, virtually any noteworthy event or idea can be captured in comic form.
I lean towards discussing what I know best, including my main areas of practice: housing, cannabis, and criminal law.
Do you draw the comics?
The comics are mostly hand-drawn, but not by me. I am simply the artistic director. I conceptualize the storyboard and imagery. I also write the captions. I am fortunate to work with a talented illustrator who brings my ideas to life. Each comic is customized and planned down to the smallest detail.
Are you available for hire?
Contact me to discuss commissions and other business opportunities.
Who is your favourite wrestler?
#LeChampion Chris Jericho!