This month’s spotlight shines on Amy Mortimore, KC of Clark Wilson LLP.
How did you first get involved with CLEBC?
I’ve used CLEBC publications and attended the seminars for as long as I can remember. My first major volunteer role for CLEBC was presenting on constructive and resulting trusts in 2008. Since that time, I have presented at numerous seminars, contributed regularly to two publications, and served on the Board of Directors.
What are you currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
I have just finished my seventh and final year on the Board of Directors. In that time, I’ve seen the organization successfully navigate numerous changes and challenges, not the least of which was transitioning through COVID. Throughout all of these changes, the core of who this organization remains: a group of highly knowledgeable and dedicated professionals committed to providing the highest quality continuing legal education. I am extremely proud to have been part of the CLEBC.
How did you decide to focus your practice on the area of wills and estates?
In my early days, I practiced general civil litigation. I then narrowed my focus to construction litigation and estates & trusts litigation. Ultimately, I chose to practice solely in estates & trusts litigation. I feel like the work I do makes a real difference in my clients’ lives. I also find this area of the law fascinating. We can look back literally centuries to find cases relevant to our cases today.
You are very active in the legal community both as a contributing author to publications and as a speaker at courses. You were also on CLEBC’s Board of Directors from 2016 to 2023 recently serving as Past Chair. Is there a particular type of volunteer role that you prefer?
Most of my volunteer roles relate to giving back to the legal profession, particularly through legal education. CLEBC talks about “lifelong learners” and I think that includes me.
Congratulations on your recent KC appointment! What does this mean to you?
Thank you! I am so honoured to have been appointed King’s Counsel.
What advice would you pass on to a newly-called lawyer?
The advice I’ve been giving articling students and prospective students lately is that you are responsible for making the career you want. This means taking the initiative to launch into the areas of law that interest you, but not being afraid to say “This isn’t working” after giving it a real shot. If your current role isn’t right for you, try something new. The career or position you have now may not be the one that fits you 5 years from now. It’s ok to change areas of practice, or to go from private practice to public practice or in-house, or to find a new role altogether. A law degree opens so many opportunities – find the role that is right for you.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
My family. My parents have always been there to encourage and support me, and I am fortunate that they continue to do so. My sisters keep me grounded, in that they are the opposite of ‘yes men’ – they will certainly let me know when I am wrong. And I’m so proud of my kids! They are both very hard-working and have grown into amazing almost-adults.