By offering a diverse range of legal counsel in an honest, respectful and transparent manner, Fleming and Associates, Barristers & Solicitors, provide clients in all corners of Powell River with the necessary support and guidance required to navigate the ever-changing legal landscape.
Consisting of lawyers Ian Fleming and Laura Berezan, as well as an experienced team of legal assistants, the general civil law practice located at 4571 Marine Avenue recently added to its combined experience and knowledge by bringing in a pair of new staff members.
“We had the opportunity to add Barb Egglestone to our group,” says Fleming. “She has a lot of experience that fits well with the other services we provide.”
Egglestone brings an array of expertise to the firm in the management of wills and estates, trusts and financial matters.
“We will be able to offer clients a little bit more than we have in the past,” says Berezan, “just because of Barb’s knowledge and experience.”
Another new addition is Robert Hainsworth, who spent time with the firm in 2015 as part of the Rural Education and Access to Lawyers Initiative, a program that addresses shortages of lawyers practicing in small BC communities.
“Robert was here as a summer student and we convinced him to come back,” explains Fleming.
After his first stint in Powell River, Hainsworth completed studies at Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto and passed the bar examination as part of his articling period with Fleming and Associates earlier this year; the apprenticeship runs through May 2017.
“Because we are a general practice firm, I have been able to do a lot of things, more so than many of my classmates from law school,” says Hainsworth, adding that although he likes litigation and going to court, for now he is learning everything. “I’m looking forward to getting up to speed and taking on new clients.”
Also helping to provide service to the firm’s clients are legal assistants Stephanie Rumley, Sharon Schmitz, Michelle Foort and Angelina Williams, while Linda Cosentino handles bookkeeping duties.
Personally, Fleming’s main focus is helping people injured in motor vehicle accidents with their recovery and dealing with the Insurance Corporation of BC.
In addition, his general litigation practice includes contract disputes, matrimonial matters and civil suits.
Fleming suggests that people involved in an accident should call a lawyer as soon as possible to find out about their legal rights.
“For a person who has been injured, there are a lot of matters to deal with, things they need to address,” says Fleming. “First of all, getting medical help, assistance, treatment and therapies, but secondly, ensuring their legal status and rights are advanced clearly and certainly.”
Fleming helps clients with the report to their insurer and guides them on each step to take afterward. Initial consultations for accident victims are free of charge, allowing them to gain strong legal advice at the very beginning of the recovery period.
“It sure doesn’t hurt to call a lawyer and receive some appropriate legal advice; it’s a good place to start.” says Fleming. “We are very experienced and easy to get to. Often, people can consult us the same day if necessary, and we only act for claimants in these cases, unlike many other law firms. Because of this approach, we believe we maximize our clients’ recovery.”
In addition to litigation, the firm offers a variety of solicitor services, primarily through Berezan.
A specialist in non-profit and charitable law, she has been especially busy of late working with non-profit organizations to help them adjust to recent changes in government legislation that affects how they operate.
“There is a significant change in the Societies Act legislation; it is a big focus for us.” says Berezan. “We are working with many non-profit organizations in Powell River to help them adapt to that change.”
Berezan also specializes in corporate and commercial, wills and estates, family and real estate law.
To book a consultation or make an enquiry, call Fleming and Associates at 604.485.2771 or email [email protected]. Information is also available on Facebook and at fleminglaw.ca.
