Why did you become a lawyer?
I was having a lot of fun doing my first degree, studying English, History, Economics, Political Science, Fine Arts, Classical Studies, Anthropology, all fascinating courses, but none of which was going to enable me to earn a living. The idea of law seemed to fit with my interests: I would be able to continue learning for the rest of my life, I would be able to help people by sharing my knowledge, and best of all, people would pay me to tell them what to do!
What is the focus of your law practice?
I practice preventative law: I help people arrange their affairs to prevent problems in the future. This applies in estate planning (helping people reduce tax burdens and hopefully prevent disagreements among the heirs), business law (helping clients do due diligence on proposed deals and negotiating contracts to reduce the chance of disputes or losses later), and real estate law (setting up developments with a view to prevent future conflicts among owners).
If you weren’t a lawyer, what profession would you like to attempt?
Restaurant Reviewer and Wine Writer.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what profession would you never do?
MMA fighter, ditch digger, really anything involving blood and guts or violence or hard physical labour.
Your favourite technology tool?
Email.
What is the first thing you check each morning?
The view of the lake.
What are people most surprised to learn about you?
I took auto-mechanics in high school so I could work on my own car (growing up in Salmon Arm has its effects on you!)
Your biggest extravagance?
Probably Clothes.
Your favourite food and drink?
Lightly done fresh seafood and local veggies accompanied by a lovely sauvignon blanc.
Your favourite motto?
Appreciate the beauty in each day.