August 2021
This month’s spotlight shines on Brad Sollis of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP.
How did you first get involved with CLEBC?
I first got involved with CLEBC through a senior partner at Bull Housser (the predecessor to Norton Rose Fulbright) with whom I worked closely. As a junior lawyer, I assisted him with researching updates to the Law Society of BC Shareholders’ Agreement checklists. Over the years, my role in connection with this publication broadened until I ultimately inherited the project. I’m currently working on the 2021 updates to the Shareholders’ Agreement checklists, alongside one of our fantastic junior lawyers at Norton Rose Fulbright.
What are you currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
I’m currently working as a member of the editorial board for the Due Diligence Deskbook on the 2021 update, which will be released later this year. This role provides a unique opportunity to remain at the forefront of the evolving landscape of due diligence for business transactions. It also provides an opportunity to work with a superb editorial board and alongside numerous subject matter experts. I also assist with updating the Business Acquisitions chapter of CLEBC’s Advising British Columbia Businesses publication each year, as well as the Shareholders’ Agreement checklists noted above.
What inspired you to become a lawyer?
My dad is a lawyer (as well as two uncles), so I was exposed to what being a lawyer entailed from a young age (although candidly I had no idea what a lawyer actually did until I was in my teens). My dad has been an incredibly valuable resource throughout my career to date and he has always been there to provide support and guidance on a myriad of issues. This support has highlighted for me the importance of mentorship in our profession. My interest in the law was solidified when I took a business law course during my commerce undergrad at UBC, which prompted me to apply for law school after graduation from commerce. I haven’t looked back since.
What lead you to specialize in the area of corporate/commercial law?
Coming from a commerce background, I started my articles with an interest in business law and M&A and was leaning towards this practice area. Early during my articling year, I started working closely with Grant Weaver, who was a senior partner at Bull Housser at the time. Grant (as well as many other partners in the business group at Bull Housser) got me involved with numerous interesting M&A transactions throughout the course of my articles and I immediately knew this was what I wanted to do long term. To this day, I continue to enjoy the opportunities that I get to learn about new businesses and industries throughout the course of a transaction.
What advice would you pass on to a newly called lawyer?
I’ve had the opportunity to learn from many great lawyers and while everyone has their own methods, styles, and routines, the underlying theme of excellent lawyers is hard work and dedication. I think that the best way to excel in this profession is to be keen, get involved, and work hard; The rest will follow.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about my family and kids. I have two young boys (ages three and a half and one and a half), both of whom have a quickly growing obsession with sports (which I selfishly fuel). Spending time at the park watching the kids enjoy themselves playing baseball or basketball is where I am happiest. It’s exhausting, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! I also enjoy sneaking away for a rec hockey or golf game, but these opportunities are few and far between these days.
Anything else you would like our readers to know?
Get involved with CLEBC! It is a great way to continue to learn and hone your knowledge, while contributing back to our profession.