What is it about board games that get you excited?

It's wholesome fun you can enjoy with family and friends. Something both kids and adults can enjoy. There’s lots of face-to-face social interaction and mental stimulation, without a computer. It sure beats watching a movie!

Who do you normally rope in for games?

Usually friends, ex-classsmates, fellow board gamers. Just about anyone willing to give it a try. Most people are somewhat reluctant at first because most people think of Monopoly, Cluedo, Risk, Trivial Pursuit and Scrabble when I mention board games. There are definitely more interesting and up-to-date games that incorporate more interesting decisions and player interaction I would rather play. Hopefully, I can interest my two boys when they get a bit older.

Tell us about the most recent board game you’ve played?

Galaxy Trucker - this one is really funny and a blast for science fiction fans. You spend a limited amount of time competing with other players scrounging for the best parts to put together a ship, then send your ship (which may or may not be complete) on a intergalactic journey and hope that it survives the journey (featuring space pirates, meteor swarms, a ship wide epidemic, abandoned space station, etc.) intact. If you manage to pick up some goods to sell, or come in first, consider it a bonus.

Draw us a parallel between board game strategising and the practice of law.

You have to play by the rules? In certain games, part of a good strategy requires you to co-operate with some of the other players while competing with them at the same time (as opposed to being completely adversarial). To do well, you have to cooperate, but there can only be one winner. Corporate law is generally not adversarial in nature, although different parties will have different interests and concerns. The different parties have to find a way to cooperate and come to an agreement, but ensure that their concerns are met. Hopefully, unlike in board games, everyone wins.

As an experienced lawyer and mentor for young lawyers at Rodyk, what is the one piece of advice you would give them that you wish someone had given you when you were just starting out?

The best advice I can pass along was imparted by a senior and well respected lawyer: "Being a good lawyer is important, but don't forget to be a good son, husband, father, and friend as well. Nobody can stay in practice forever."

That, and "Give boardgames a try"?


Terence (extreme right) and friends