Welcome 2026–27 President and President-Elect
Bud Melnyk, KC, President
Bud Melnyk, KC, begins his term as the 2026–27 President of the Law Society of Alberta today.
Bud joined the Board in 2018. He is a partner with the law firm of Warren Sinclair LLP in Red Deer and practises primarily in the areas of family law and civil litigation.
“I am truly honoured and thrilled to be taking on the Presidency role,” says Bud. “Since being elected as President-Elect in May 2025, I have had the opportunity of working closely with our outgoing President, Stacy Petriuk, KC, and I hope I can do justice to her outstanding example of leadership.
We have an exemplary Bencher table, and I look forward to a year of moving boldly ahead with our strategic plan. This past year our Bencher table has dealt with a number of evolving issues, and the Benchers have shown great resiliency and guidance in addressing those challenges. I am confident that together with the Bencher table and the Law Society’s excellent staff and management, we are well-positioned to take on the important work ahead of us this year.”
Jim Lutz, KC, President-Elect
Jim Lutz, KC, begins his term as the 2026–27 President-Elect of the Law Society of Alberta today.
Jim joined the Board in 2018. He works at Ross Lutz Dunn & Deshaye where he practises criminal law and represents individuals in front of disciplinary boards.
“It was a privilege to be elected as a Bencher, and I am truly honoured to have been chosen by my fellow Benchers to be this year’s President-Elect,” says Jim. “Much has changed since being elected, but the Bencher table is stronger than ever with an exceptional table and incredible support from the Law Society’s leadership and staff.
We are committed to the Rule of Law and strengthening our role as an independent regulator working closely with our stakeholders and ensuring the public receives the best counsel possible.
Under Bud Melnyk’s leadership, the Benchers and staff will lead through hard work and a common goal of serving in the public interest.”
To learn more about Bud and Jim, visit the Board Directory.