Patterson Law Welcomes Three New Partners to the Firm
Published January 3, 2025
Patterson Law is proud to announce the addition of three accomplished lawyers to its partnership, effective January 1, 2025. Michael J. Duggan, Grace MacCormick and Kate Naugler bring diverse legal backgrounds, dedication to their clients, and deep community connections to the firm, strengthening Patterson Law’s commitment to exceptional service and advocacy.
Michael J. Duggan
Michael, a lifelong resident of Halifax Regional Municipality, was called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 1993. His practice focuses on real estate transactions (including refinances), and wills and estates.
Michael joins Patterson Law as a lateral addition from Casey Rodgers Chisholm Penny Duggan LLP, where he served as a partner. A graduate of Saint Mary’s University and Dalhousie University’s Schulich School of Law, Michael is a longstanding member of the Real Estate Lawyers Association of Nova Scotia.
Michael shared his excitement about joining the Patterson Law team, stating:
“I am very much looking forward to joining such an accomplished group of professionals. Having practiced in metro Halifax for 31 years, I am excited to introduce my loyal clients to the team at Patterson Law. Working closely with the team at the Quinn Street office, I hope to help grow the success of Patterson Law into the future.”
Grace MacCormick
A lifelong resident of Truro, Grace’s civil litigation practice includes property litigation, commercial litigation, and municipal law.
Since being called to the Bar, Grace has appeared in all levels of court in Nova Scotia, before administrative tribunals, and at the Court of Queen’s Bench in New Brunswick. She is also an active community volunteer, serving on the Board of the Colchester East Hants Hospital Foundation, and volunteering at the Truro Free Legal Clinic. Grace also gives back as a mentor, moot judge, and a former instructor at Dalhousie University’s Truro Campus.
Grace’s dedication to her clients and her community exemplifies the mission of Patterson Law to provide compassionate and skilled legal services.
“From the time I joined the firm as a first year summer student I’ve been humbled by the support I’ve been provided. I am forever grateful for the generosity, kindness and patience I’ve been shown by staff and lawyers who have taken time they do not have to help me become the lawyer I am today. The partnership is filled with people I admire and respect both personally and professionally. I am truly honoured to have been asked to join them.”
Kate Naugler
Born and raised on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, Kate is a tenacious advocate known for her practical and analytical approach to family law. After completing her student clerkship with the Nova Scotia Supreme Court, Kate articled and started her legal career in Toronto, where she gained experience in civil litigation, human rights, and employment disputes. She was called to the Ontario Bar in 2018.
Returning to Nova Scotia in 2020, Kate has received several successful reported decisions and has established a thriving family law litigation practice. She also serves as a member of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia Family Division Judicial Liaison Committee for the Western Region.
Reflecting on her new role, Kate said:
“In terms of my career goals, joining the strong team of partners at Patterson Law is a great honour. I look forward to continuing to foster the values of our organization in pursuit of our commitment to excellence in providing legal services to our clients. At this milestone, my professional mission remains to make a positive contribution to the jurisprudence and the community.”
Kate’s ability to navigate complex family law matters, and her dedication to advocating for her clients make her an invaluable asset to the firm and the communities she serves.
About Patterson Law
Patterson Law is an established Nova Scotia law firm with offices in Truro, Halifax, New Glasgow, and Bridgewater, with clients whose interests range from global to purely local. Our more than 150 lawyers and staff are dedicated to meeting our clients’ diverse legal needs. We endeavour to maintain the highest standard of service to our clients
