A significant part of Sam’s practice is focused on advising clients on complex and thorny issues related to open source software, including helping organizations comply with ambiguous provisions found in many open source licenses, developing open source policies that are actually used by engineers, and negotiating open source issues as part of licensing or M&A transactions. Sam was the co-creator of Osler’s Open Source service offerings which launched in the summer of 2018. These offerings include:
Osler Code Detect. Pitched, developed, tested and launched Osler Code Detect, a free tool that is designed to identify the risks related to open source software usage. (For a video demonstration, click here)
Technology Groups Contracts Generator. Pitched, developed, tested and launched Osler's "Technology Contracts Generator" for internal use, automating the firm’s Web Site Terms, Privacy Policy, SaaS Agreement and Confidentiality agreements. As a result, articling students have produce standard contracts in less than 5 minutes, significantly accelerating turnaround times and increasing profitability in servicing emerging technology-sector clients where fees are often fixed. (For video demonstration, click here)
OSFI B-10 Tool. Currently developing an interactive web-based tool to assist financial instruction clients, including a tool that helps financial institution clients consider whether a transaction is considered a material outsourcing and thus, subject to the requirements of OSFI B-10.
He is also a licensed Professional Engineer with a keen interest in working with technology-sector companies, including blockchain and AI-based companies. Sam believes that deep technical expertise is a strong differentiator that complements practical legal advice. With a strong focus on emerging technologies and having implemented sample Ethereum blockchains at Osler, Sam's expertise and advice are consistently sought out by clients.
Sam's passion for fitness and competing runs deep. He is a triathlon ethuasiast who recently competeted in the Ironman Triathlon at Mont-Tremblant. Outside of work, Sam enjoys spending time with his wife and son.