Shawn Patey

Mediator

Shawn is a full-time mediator with over 30 years of litigation experience and a proven ability to resolvedisputes across a wide spectrum of civil matters. Drawing on his extensive background as both plaintiff and defence counsel, Shawn brings practical insight, legal knowledge, and evaluative clarity to every mediation he conducts.​

Since transitioning to full-time mediation in 2020, Shawn has guided parties through hundreds of disputes. With his ODR Coordinator Dan next to him, he tackles cases of personal injury and insurance, estate litigation, employment matters, and commercial and contractual claims. His approach is consistently focused on outcomes, combining candid evaluation, and with Dan’s procedural dicipline, assisting parties to close gaps, manage risk, and move files forward to resolution.​

Shawn is known for creating a resolution-focused environment where parties feel heard but also challenged to assess the legal and practical realities of their positions. He works collaboratively with Dan to ensure each mediation runs efficiently and professionally, whether held virtually, in person, or in hybrid format.​

Education

  • Master of Laws (LL.M.) – Osgoode Hall Law School, York University (2018)
  • Master of Laws (LL.M.) – Osgoode Hall Law School, York University (2020)
  • Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) – Queen’s University (1990)
  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – Memorial University of Newfoundland (1987)

Professional Experience

  • Mediator, Patey Mediations (2020–Present)

Full-time mediator specializing in civil litigation matters, including personal injury, estate, employment, and commercial disputes. Collaborates with ODR Coordinator Dan van der Burg to facilitate efficient and effective dispute resolution processes.​

  • Lawyer, Patey Law Group (2000–2020)

Over 20 years running general litigation practice representing both plaintiffs and defendants in various civil matters. Developed a comprehensive understanding of litigation strategies and client advocacy.​

  • In-House Legal Counsel, Liberty Mutual Canada (1997-2000)

Provided in-house legal services for a leading global insurer, focusing on claims management, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance. Worked closely with underwriting and claims teams to navigate complex legal issues in the insurance industry.​

  • Associate Lawyer, Smith Lyons LLP (now Gowling WLG) (1988-1996)

Summered, articled and practiced in a prominent Bay Street firm, gaining experience in insurance defence, commercial real estate, high income family law and corporate/commercial litigation. Contributed to a variety of cases, enhancing skills in legal research and advocacy, drafting, discovery and client representation.​

Lawyers across Ontario trust Shawn to handle both routine and high-conflict matters with integrity and steady hand, grounded in reality, no matter the area of law.​

Shawn is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, the Ontario Bar Association, the ADR Institute of Canada, the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business and the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

Shawn is of indigenous descent from Newfoundland, and was a Founding Member of the Qalipu First Nation, a Mi’kmaq band government, created in 2011. He is the proud grand-dad of 5 children.