SSM: Lang Michener LLP Legal Opinion: Expensive and ruinous lawsuits if Bill C-38 becomes law

The National Post printed an edited excerpt of a letter that will be sent today to all Canadian MPs and Senators from a legal counsel who maintains active practices or academic interest in litigation, human rights, religious, charity or constitutional law. The letter states: "We have reviewed two constitutional opinions provided by the law firm of Lang Michener LLP, on the subject of Bill C-38, the federal government's proposed legislation to legalize same-sex marriage. The group affirmed that there is little doubt that, if passed, Bill C-38 will be used by provincial governments and others to override the rights of conscience and religion of ordinary Canadians. Public officials will in all likelihood lose their employment because of their conscientious convictions. Your constituents, including religious groups and the members of religious groups, will face expensive and ruinous lawsuits if Bill C-38 becomes law. "We therefore urge each Member of the House of Commons and the Senate to carefully consider and vote against Bill C-38. The Supreme Court of Canada has clearly left this option open to Parliament" (NP A22).

This is from Apr. 29, 05 but other commitments have kept me from posting. My apologies to the friend who gave me this -- and thanks, too.