Caraid McGinty is an associate at Gorham Vandebeek LLP. Her practice primarily focuses on criminal appeals, and she has a passion for ensuring that client’s rights are protected at every stage of their encounters with the justice system. With a strong research background in mental health and disability law, Caraid is particularly attune to how mental health, disability, and the carceral system intersect.

Caraid obtained her B.A. in Criminology, Anthropology and Political Science with honours from the University of Toronto. Highlights from her time at the University of Toronto include providing research support to Professor Akwasi Owusu-Bempah for his book “Waiting to Inhale: Cannabis Legalization and the Fight for Racial Justice” and creating the Women in Anthropology panel to promote gender diversity in the field of anthropology.

Caraid then pursued her J.D. at Dalhousie University. While at Dalhousie, Caraid worked as a research assistant for both Professor Sheila Wildeman and Counsel Claire McNeil, who are two leading advocates in the area of mental health and disability law. She also completed a semester at the Dalhousie Legal Aid Clinic, and was awarded the Dianne Pothier Memorial Prize, which is given to a student enrolled in the clinic who demonstrates significant commitment to social justice. Caraid was also an executive member of the Dalhousie Prison Law Society throughout her time at law school.

Caraid was called to the bar in Nova Scotia in 2024, after articling with one of the leading full-service firms in Atlantic Canada. She then moved back to Toronto, where she practiced family law with two boutique firms in downtown Toronto. While in family law, Caraid gained experience in oral advocacy and navigating high conflict cases. 

Caraid is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, and a non-practicing member of the Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society. She is also a member of Women in Canadian Criminal Defence and the Criminal Lawyers’ Association.