This month’s spotlight shines on Layne Hellrung of Cook Roberts LLP.
How did you first get involved with CLEBC?
When I was called to the bar, I leaned heavily on CLEBC materials. I did not article in BC. I didn’t know what a “NOCC” was or where to find the courthouse… It was a steep learning curve!
I liked that CLEBC’s materials were practical and BC specific. A key resource for me was the British Columbia Civil Trial Handbook. I read it cover to cover three times in my first two years of practice. In 2016, I had the opportunity to co-chair the Real Estate Litigation course. Since then, I’ve continued to attend, co-chair, and present at CLEBC programs.
What are you currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
In 2026, I am co-chairing two courses: Litigation Misconduct and Real Estate Litigation. In 2025, I presented at the course on Commercial Leasing.
How did you decide to practice in the area of civil litigation?
In law school, I was fortunate to participate in two moots and, during my articles, a trial. All areas of practice have their own appeal, but it’s hard to replace the highs and lows of litigation.
You have been very active in the legal community, including your involvement with CLEBC and your significant pro bono work. What motivates you to contribute your time?
Pro bono work has been an important part of my practice since my call to the bar. Many of my “firsts” were pro bono cases. We also all want to give back to our communities — it’s a great way to do so (especially for a broke young lawyer). The law is always changing, and cases unexpectedly take you into new practice areas. My work with CLEBC has helped me understand these areas and new developments.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
My wife (also a lawyer) and I are blessed with two wonderful little kids, who keep us very busy. We just moved to Victoria from Vancouver in 2025, so we are still settling in. We went to UVic together, so it’s great to be back. Running and swimming are important parts of my life. I’m training for a few longer running events, and completed a 50 km trail run in May. I’m also training to swim the English Channel.