JAMES BAIRD leads Boughton Law’s Wills, Trusts & Estates Group, and also practices in the areas of corporate/commercial law and real estate. His wills and estates practice includes advising clients on estate planning and business succession matters. James has expertise in all aspects of estates law, from the conception and implementation of the estate plans through eventual administration of estates. He also frequently advises on ancillary areas such as probate management and administration of estates, powers of attorney, and trusts. James is a frequent lecturer and instructor in his areas of expertise. He was called to the BC bar in 1978.
How and why did you get involved with CLEBC?
I was asked in the 1980’s to join a lawyer “focus group” to critique CLEBC offerings. I guess if you criticize the product you then get asked to teach courses. Which was what happened.
What are you are currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?
Courses in the Will and Estate area, including revising and updating materials for the 2016 Wills Drafting course.
What has been your most memorable CLEBC experience?
Co-teaching the will and estate workshops.
What’s the most valuable piece of advice you have received?
“If you want to make money, go where the money ‘is’!” (from a bartender). And I also liked “Take care of the customer, the cash flow will take care of itself.” (from an auto mechanic).
What advice would you give newcomers interested in working in the legal profession?
“Dictate. Record your time.” And “Book your vacations, no one will give them to you.”
What has been the most rewarding part of your career to date?
Working with intelligent lawyers who are also decent people.
Other than law, what are you passionate about?
Life.
What are some of your favourite legal resources? (blogs, websites, etc.)
Lawyers are the guardians of a free society. They should pay more attention, especially to the threats to liberty in the guise of “good feelings” and “progressive reforms.”