The Law Society of New Brunswick scheduled a disciplinary hearing for prominent Saint John lawyer William H. Teed following a recent complaint. CBC News first reported the development and noted the regulatory body referred the matter to its discipline committee.

Details of the Complaint Remain Unknown

The Law Society has not released specific information about the allegations against Teed. Joleen Dable serves as the registrar of complaints and deputy executive director. She confirmed the organization is preparing a Notice of Complaint to outline the specific allegations.

“We are in the process of preparing the Notice of Complaint (Form 22), which will set out the allegations,” Dable said.

Once the Law Society finalizes the document, you will be able to read it on their official website. The organization protects the identity of complainants and never releases their names. Teed will have 20 days to file a formal response once he receives the notice. The Law Society will also post his response online.

Agreement to Stop Practicing Law

The complaints committee held an interim suspension hearing on October 2. The committee chose not to suspend Teed because he is already retired. Instead, they imposed a strict condition with his consent. Teed agreed he will not engage in the practice of law.

This condition prevents him from giving legal advice, drafting legal documents, representing clients before adjudicative bodies, and negotiating legal rights on behalf of others. This restriction remains in place until the discipline committee reaches a final decision.

Nathan Gorham represents Teed. Gorham provided a statement explaining that his client changed his status to non practicing and retired. Gorham noted Teed agreed he would not return to practice and the complaints committee imposed a condition reflecting this decision.

A High Profile Career

Teed built a long career in the Saint John area. The Law Society admitted him to the bar in 1978. He worked as a partner at Cox and Palmer and earned a reputation as an expert in corporate commercial law.

You might recognize his name from his work with the Oland family. Teed represented them for years. This included the period when Dennis Oland stood trial twice for the 2011 murder of his father Richard Oland. Courts ultimately acquitted Dennis Oland.

What Happens Next

The discipline committee will conduct a formal hearing. This hearing will be open to the public. The Law Society schedules these proceedings based on the availability of the involved parties and volunteer panel members. The organization will post a notice of hearing online once they set a date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the allegations against Bill Teed?

The Law Society of New Brunswick has not yet released the details of the complaint. They are currently preparing a formal Notice of Complaint that will outline the allegations.

Is Bill Teed still practicing law?

No. Teed is retired and recently agreed to a condition imposed by the Law Society that prevents him from practicing law, giving legal advice, or drafting legal documents.

Will the disciplinary hearing be public?

Yes. The Law Society of New Brunswick conducts formal discipline committee hearings open to the public. They will announce the date on their website once scheduled.