Photo of Kathryn Smithen Toronto Family Lawyer

In the Media

A Voice Shaped by Experience — Family Lawyer Media Toronto

Kathryn Smithen’s journey, from surviving violence to advocating for women and children—has become a powerful voice in the public conversation about family law, justice, and recovery. Explore interviews, articles, and media appearances that share her story and insights.

In the Public Eye

Featured Insights,
and Media

Kathryn Smithen is one of the most respected voices in Canadian family law. She has been featured in Maclean’s, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, and Law Times — Canada’s leading publications turn to her for expert commentary on issues affecting women and families.

This media recognition reflects decades of legal expertise, a unique personal story, and a commitment to advocating for women navigating separation, divorce, and custody. Kathryn’s commentary bridges the gap between complex legal principles and the real-world experiences of Canadian families.

A woman in a courtroom addressing a man, with legal documents and a judge visible in the background.
How Lawyers Are Portrayed in Literature and Movies

How Lawyers Are Portrayed in Literature and Movies

A woman in a blue dress is sitting comfortably on a couch, looking relaxed and engaged in her surroundings.
Beyond the Blue Dress: Letter to the Editor of Vanity Fair Magazine

Beyond the Blue Dress: Letter to the Editor of Vanity Fair Magazine

A man stands on the steps of a building, dressed casually, with a neutral expression and hands in pockets.
Crime and Punishment for Youth in Canada: Letter to the Editor of the Toronto Star

Crime and Punishment for Youth in Canada: Letter to the Editor of the Toronto Star

Photo of Kathryn Smithen Toronto Family Lawyer
Why I Went to Law School – Ontario Bar Association’s Campaign of the “First 100 Why I Went to Law School” Stories

Why I Went to Law School – Ontario Bar Association’s Campaign of the “First 100 Why I Went to Law School” Stories

Photo of Kathryn Smithen Toronto Family Lawyer
Law Times Top Newsmakers in 2011

Law Times Top Newsmakers in 2011

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We are the Dead: Months’ long Maclean’s investigation into domestic violence in Canada

We are the Dead: Months’ long Maclean’s investigation into domestic violence in Canada

a black statue of a girl with her arms crossed
Family Law Can Be A Dangerous Job

Family Law Can Be A Dangerous Job

Photo of Kathryn Smithen Toronto Family Lawyer
Lawyer Turns Her Life Around to be Able to Serve Others

Lawyer Turns Her Life Around to be Able to Serve Others

CBC Radio Show: Definitely not the Opera: Looking at the Law from Both Sides

CBC Radio Show: Definitely not the Opera: Looking at the Law from Both Sides

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Law Society Panel Convinced She Would Bring Credit to the Profession

Law Society Panel Convinced She Would Bring Credit to the Profession

a woman sitting on the floor with her head down and arms around her knees
Changing the Law Isn’t Changing the System

Changing the Law Isn’t Changing the System

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Kathryn L. Smithen appears as an invited Witness at the Standing Committee on Justice & Human Rights at the House of Commons in Ottawa

Kathryn L. Smithen appears as an invited Witness at the Standing Committee on Justice & Human Rights at the House of Commons in Ottawa

a photo of Arthur Herbert Smithen
Arthur Herbert Smithen

Arthur Herbert Smithen

Speaking & Expert Commentary

Kathryn is available for expert commentary on family law matters including divorce reform, child custody trends, spousal support policy, intimate partner violence, women’s rights in family court, and trauma-informed legal practice. For media inquiries, contact info@smithenlaw.ca.