Meet our articling student, Darien Ekblad!

My name is Darien Ekblad, and I am thrilled to be joining Daniel & Partners LLP as an Articling Student for 2024-2025.

I was born and raised in Belle River, Ontario, where I attended high school before moving to St. Catharines to pursue my undergraduate degree at Brock University. At Brock, I earned a Bachelor of Sport Management (Honours) degree. My desire to pursue a career in law was sparked by guidance from professors and inspiration from courses studying legal issues in a sport context.  

Upon graduating from Brock, I began my legal studies at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law. During my time in Ottawa, I competed in the Nelligan O’Brien Payne Moot Competition and the Hicks Morley Moot Competition, where I was first introduced to the world of litigation. I also gained valuable experience in legal research and writing while working as a Research Assistant for Professor Heather McLeod-Kilmurray and as a “Technoship” student at the Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic.

In my spare time, I enjoy shopping at local farmers’ markets, exploring Niagara’s vast trail network, or lounging with a book at Lakeside Park Beach in Port Dalhousie. I also love taking road trips to visit friends and family in other parts of Ontario and the United States. Above all else, I love spending time with my two dogs, Oscar and Frank, who never let me forget who’s in charge.

I look forward to beginning my legal career at Daniel & Partners LLP, where I have the distinct honour of learning from and working with a group of inspiring lawyers, law clerks, and support staff.