TORONTO — Alan Young, an influential lawyer and esteemed legal scholar recognized for his pivotal role in challenging Canada's prostitution laws, has sadly passed away at the age of 69. The announcement was made by York University, where Young served as a prominent professor at Osgoode Hall Law School, a position he held with great distinction.

Young’s most notable achievement came in 2013 when he spearheaded a landmark Supreme Court case that led to the dismantling of Canada’s prostitution laws, deemed unconstitutional. This groundbreaking decision not only redefined the legal landscape for sex work in Canada but also prompted the federal government to undertake a thorough revision of existing legislation.

In addition to his work on prostitution law, Young was a fierce advocate for patients' rights, notably representing individuals suffering from diseases such as AIDS, cancer, and multiple sclerosis who faced charges for using medical marijuana. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the federal regulations that now govern medical cannabis use in Canada.

Recognized by Canadian Lawyer magazine as one of the 25 most influential figures in the legal realm over several years, Young was described by those who knew him as a trailblazer. York’s law school dean, Trevor Farrow, expressed deep condolences, emphasizing that Young made significant contributions not only to Osgoode but also to the legal profession as a whole.

Adam Parachin, a professor at Osgoode and former student of Young, reflected on his unique character, stating, “He was brilliant and a ‘one of a kind’ character. His sharp wit made criminal law an early favorite of mine.” Young's infectious passion for the subject inspired countless students, many of whom have since become leading criminal lawyers in Canada.

Young began his legal career after graduating from Osgoode Hall in 1981, later serving as a clerk at the Supreme Court of Canada before attaining a Master of Laws degree from Harvard University. In 1986, he returned to Osgoode Hall as a professor and co-founded the Innocence Project, an initiative dedicated to investigating wrongful convictions and advocating for the innocent.

Justice James Stribopoulos remarked on Young’s impact, stating, “There is a whole generation of leading criminal lawyers in Canada whose beginnings are traced directly to Alan.

Alan Young’s legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and advocacy for marginalized communities. His contributions not only shaped legal precedents but also inspired a new wave of legal professionals dedicated to progressive reform in Canada. As tributes pour in, it is clear that Young's influence will be felt for generations to come.