Professor Dr. Basil Alexander

Biography

Basil Alexander is a legal academic who focuses on the realities of achieving social change and improving society through legal practice and other approaches. Prior to returning to academia, he worked as a public interest and social justice lawyer for several years in Toronto, with experience in litigation, non-profits, and serving Indigenous clients. His notable cases include the Ipperwash Inquiry and involvement in the initial stages of the Toronto G20 class action. He aims to enhance practice-informed perspectives in his research and teaching. Before joining the Lincoln Alexander School of Law at Toronto Metropolitan University on July 1, 2025, he served as an Assistant Professor at the University of New Brunswick’s Faculty of Law, where he received teaching awards for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has previously taught at Osgoode Hall Law School and Université de Sherbrooke, and his research covers cause lawyering, in-house counsel, and peaceful assembly. Alexander actively participates in university and community service, contributing to the Canadian Association for Legal Ethics and examining whistleblowing legislation. His current PhD work at Queen’s Law on cause lawyering reflects his dedication to enhancing understanding and practical applications in legal education.

Research Interests