As first reported by CBC Hamilton in 2023, and according to subsequent LSO investigations, Bruyn has a pattern of promising to help clients successfully navigate Canada’s complicated refugee process, but then failed to complete their applications, show up for hearings or submit evidence, and in some cases lied about it.
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In two other cases, clients paid her a total of $10,500 in fees without completing any work and Bruyn never provided refunds, LSO lawyer Kristin Bailey said at the hearing.
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Bruyn didn’t submit any evidence on behalf of her client, even after the Refugee Protection Division gave her an extension, said the LSO. As a result, the woman’s refugee claim was denied. Bruyn told her she’d file an appeal, but never did.
The woman was almost deported back to Mexico, but a new lawyer, retained through a local refugee organization, intervened and helped her get a temporary resident permit, said Ushirode’s affidavit. She’s currently applying for more permanent status.
What’s she doing now? Surely she isn’t in a position to harm others:
She told the panel she isn’t opposing her licence being suspended. She’s no longer practising law and was appointed as an adjudicator to Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board last year, but is on a leave of absence.
Sounds like she needs to be charged with fraud to actually feel some consequences for this.
Agreed. She defrauded refugees. I feel like Canada has generally treated newcomers and existing citizens poorly, but this feels like a new low.
