About Patricia

Patricia File graduated from Queen’s University Law School in 1983 and was called to the Bar in Ontario in 1985. She obtained an Honours Biology degree, specialization Ecology, from the University of Guelph in 1979.

For over 20 years, Pat worked in law reform, policy development and public service work at all three levels of government – federal, provincial/territorial and municipal. She has been a consultant, researcher and assistant to a wide range of non-governmental organizations, as well as to Judges, an elected Member of Parliament, the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs and the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. She worked for the Court Challenges Program and assisted many equality-seeking groups in conferences, meetings and media relations for their court cases. Pat and her husband Bruce Gillies operated Sage Pastures Farm south of Midland for seven years.

Since November of 2006, Pat has been in a private practice in Midland with a focus on family law and child protection law.

“My interest in family law springs from my work on issues of violence against women, community wellness and justice, housing and poverty. I am a parent and understand the importance of helping families achieve appropriate child custody, support and access arrangements that meet the needs of growing children and changing family situations.” Pat has a certificate in alternative dispute resolution and mediation training. She has Level 1 Collaborative Team Practice Training and completed an internship with The Mediation Centre.

Pat served three terms as a Ward 1 Member of Council for the Town of Midland from 2006-2018.