This month’s spotlight shines on Beatrice C. McCutcheon of Cook Roberts
How did you first get involved with CLEBC?
In 2008, I was invited to review the chapters of Family Law Agreements: Annotated Precedents (FLAAP) about marriage and cohabitation agreements. I used FLAAP on a regular basis when drafting agreements and was excited to have an opportunity to contribute. I continued as a chapter author of FLAAP until 2016 when I was invited to join its Editorial Board. My first speaking engagement with CLEBC was in 2013 at The Family Law Act: Everything You Always Wanted to Know course, which was presented in three cities (Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna). Being part of this “road show” was a great opportunity to meet other CLEBC volunteers and be part of the conversation about the changes to practice arising from the new legislation.
What are you currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
In early November, I spoke on drafting agreements about pension division as part of the Pension Division on Relationship Breakdown course. I am also working with the Editorial Board on the 2024 update to FLAAP.
What inspired you to become a lawyer?
My father (Brian McCutcheon) is a retired lawyer and one of my earliest memories is attending his call to the bar. From observing him (and later working in his office during the summer), I learned that law involved interesting and varied work, as well as long hours, although it wasn’t the hours that inspired me to become a lawyer!
How did you decide to focus your practice on family law?
I became interested in family law because I wanted to help people resolve issues that were important to them and had a significant impact on their lives. I enjoy the variety of legal issues and the opportunity to assist people in moving forward during what is often a difficult time in their lives.
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?
Family law is both a challenging and rewarding area in which to practice. There are so many things to learn, especially because family law keeps evolving. I enjoy learning about family law and hope that, by sharing my knowledge, I can make practicing in this area more rewarding for other lawyers and more effective for the families that they assist.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
I love spending time with my husband and our two daughters and especially spending time outdoors in all the beautiful places we are fortunate to live near.
What do you look forward to most in 2024?
I am looking forward to travelling with my family and celebrating the first of a number of milestones that are coming in the next few years.