June 2021
This month’s spotlight shines on Sandra Katalinic of Eyford Partners.
How did you first get involved with CLEBC?
After practicing for a few years as a litigator, I was asked to co-author a chapter for CLEBC’s British Columbia Motor Vehicle Claims Practice Manual and to participate as a speaker at a course. My involvement in both areas then expanded over the years.
What are you currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
I am a regular member of the editorial board for the British Columbia Motor Vehicle Claims Practice Manual. This involves meeting annually with colleagues with great expertise on the subject matter and reviewing the various chapter authors’ additions and revisions to their chapters. It challenges me to stay up-to-date on the jurisprudence in various areas of law that pertain to my practice. In addition, I review and update three of the chapters in the Manual. I co-chaired a CLEBC conference based on the Manual in November 2019 (Motor Vehicle Accident Claim Basics) and I presented at a CLEBC conference on the new “Minor Injuries” legislation in April 2019 (Civil Resolution Tribunal and Personal Injury Practice).
What inspired you to become a lawyer?
I developed a general interest in law as a young reader. As I progressed through the undergraduate program at the University of British Columbia I began to consider my options after obtaining my Bachelor of Arts degree (major in International Relations). I delayed that decision by working for a year at UBC as a research assistant. I narrowed the decision down to pursuing a master’s degree in political science or a law degree and settled on applying to law school. It proved to be as challenging and interesting as I had imagined.
How did you decide to focus your practice on litigation?
Before I even started articling I had the notion that I would be interested in focusing my practice on litigation. I wanted an opportunity to prepare and present legal arguments in the intellectually challenging, longstanding traditions of the litigation process.
You are very active in the legal community both as a contributor to publications and as a speaker. What motivates you to give back to the profession?
The public and the profession are best served when lawyers are knowledgeable in the areas in which they practice. In order to achieve the necessary level of expertise, it is important for lawyers to remain current with developments in the law and to continue to develop their legal analytical skills. I benefit from continuing legal education and am pleased to have the opportunity to help other lawyers to maintain a high level of legal acumen.
What advice would you pass on to a newly called lawyer?
Treat other lawyers and the judiciary with respect and courtesy. Understand the law and keep abreast of changes in it, for your own professional development and to best serve your clients’ interests. Ensure you understand what your clients seek to achieve and provide your clients with the best legal advice possible. Do not hesitate to consult with other lawyers on issues of law or practice. Find an area of law that you enjoy and you will not mind the hard work that comes with the territory.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
I read a lot and enjoy travelling, spending time outdoors (in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard in the summer and on skis in the winter), music, and learning new things.