Three lawyers from Prince Edward Island — Karen A. Rose, Gary S. Scales, and Paul M. Kiley — have been bestowed with the King’s Counsel designation.
Deputy Premier, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, and Attorney General Bloyce Thompson announced the honor, recognizing their outstanding contributions to law and the community.
The King’s Counsel title, historically known as Queen’s Counsel, has its roots in the 16th century. Originating in the English High Court, it was a designation given to barristers selected to serve as legal counsel to the Crown. This tradition, spanning over four centuries across many Commonwealth countries, acknowledges lawyers who have demonstrated excellence in their field, leadership, professionalism, and significant public and social contributions.
Karen A. Rose, currently the Prothonotary of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Prince Edward Island, has a distinguished career in law. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Prince Edward Island, a law degree from Dalhousie Law School, and an MBA from Brock University. Her experience includes private practice and serving as PEI’s Information and Privacy Commissioner.
Gary S. Scales, a partner at McInnes Cooper in Charlottetown, is recognized for his expertise in Corporate Commercial Law, Corporate Finance & Securities, and Property Development. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Bishop’s University, a law degree from the University of New Brunswick Law School, and an LL.M. from the London School of Economics. Scales is actively engaged in various community and legal organizations.
Paul M. Kiley, a partner at Stewart McKelvey in Charlottetown, specializes in Corporate Law and Banking and Finance Law. He received his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of Prince Edward Island and his law degree from the University of New Brunswick Law School. Kiley is known for his community involvement, including roles with the Canadian Bar Association, the Murchison Foundation, and the Hospice Palliative Care Association of Prince Edward Island.
The Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward Island, The Honourable Antoinette Perry, is set to host a formal ceremony for the 2023 King’s Counsel recipients in the upcoming year.
