We’re pleased to announce that the following individuals are among 31 lawyers receiving the 2025 King’s Counsel (KC) designation for exceptional contributions to the legal profession in BC.
Anita Atwal, Legal Aid BC’s ethics advisor, was called to the bar in 2006. Atwal is a leading employment and human rights lawyer with nearly two decades of experience advancing equity, inclusion, and justice. She is also the integrity commissioner for the City of Maple Ridge, City of Vancouver, and the Squamish Nation integrity review panel. Holding a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of British Columbia, Atwal specializes in workplace investigations, governance and ethics. She has also contributed to the governance of the Fraser Health Authority and BC Infrastructure Benefits. A frequent speaker at the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia, and the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), she received the CBA of BC Equality and Diversity Award, and Surrey Board of Trade Women in Business Award.
Kamaljit Lehal, called to the bar in 1990, is the founder of Lehal Law, focusing on immigration and mediation. A graduate of the University of British Columbia’s Peter A. Allard school of law, she is nationally recognized for leadership in immigration law and advocacy for survivors of gender-based violence. Her work, which includes providing immigration legal aid, has driven significant policy reforms, including expedited immigration processes for women fleeing violence. Her service includes roles on the Civil Resolution Tribunal, the B.C. Review Board and numerous Canadian Bar Association committees, including chair of the National Immigration Section. A dedicated mentor and community leader, Lehal champions equity, diversity and trauma-informed legal practice across the profession.
For more information, including the full list of the 31 lawyers receiving the 2025 KC designation, see this media release.
