Morgan Powell Privacy, Media and Surveillance SME Legal Specialist
Technological advancements have changed the way we have conversations around privacy.
We live in a surveillance state. Cameras are everywhere, and with new technologies like Meta glasses and drones, privacy concerns are brought to the forefront. Social media creates an ever-present digital footprint, “the right to be forgotten” cannot be exercised in the same way that it used to.
I understand the modern modalities of technology - both through the benefits of advancement and the limitations of current privacy laws. I have a Master's of Journalism from UBC with a background in reporting on the legal implications of surveillance technology. I covered the Coastal GasLink trials (in-person), where privacy through surveillance equipment (drones and GPS) was declared a human rights violation by Amnesty International. I’ve also reported extensively on the Highway of Tears and how a disproportionate amount of Indigenous women and girls go missing due to a lack of cellular connectivity, even interviewing former NASA director Chris Hadfield on the impact of satellite technology in rural areas. My journalism experience allows me to portray myself objectively as an expert witness, with a specialization in courtroom reporting and surveillance technology.
Privacy is a complex right, with many grey areas, I can provide counsel on the technology itself and the operating policies of the parent company. I will look at your case specifically and contrast it with the “bigger picture.” Drawing on academic literature, similar cases, and relevant laws, to weigh in as an expert in the field of privacy, media, and surveillance technology.
There is often a fine-line between what is considered reasonable use of technology and what teeters into harassment, I can compile relevant resources and combine them with my own expert knowledge to provide information related to the following cases:
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The justified or unjustified use of GPS, satellite, or drone equipment
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The justified or unjustified use of cameras, meta glasses, audio recorders (including recording phone calls)
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Technology and its impact on the environment, contrasted to best industry practices
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Doxxing, social media stalking, and online harassment
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Sexual exploitation or the unapproved sharing of intimate images *
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Defamation, media exposure, slander, and writing for libel
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Breaches of confidentiality (NDAs, confidentiality agreements, medical and financial breaches)
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Cases where censorship may be exercised
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Cases that potentially violate legislation around Freedom of Speech or Freedom of Expression
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Any case where privacy is questioned
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Any case where technology is involved
I can be an expert witness for all levels-of-court and all tribunals or formal hearings, including the BC Human Rights Tribunal. All testimonials require a consultation followed by a retainer, a letter requires a consultation but not a retainer. All services must be paid for upfront.
Consultation: $300
Retainer: $3,000+
Letter (includes research): $1,500+
Testimony (does not include research): $2,000/half-day | $4,000/full-day
Testimony [under oath] (does not include research): $3,000/half-day | $6,000/full-day
Travel-time and additional research rates ($400/hour) may apply.
Pro bono services: I am able to consider low/no-cost consultations on a situational basis, especially if your situation involves vulnerability.
*All services for minors are billed at 100% no-cost.