July 26, 2010

Introducing Beatrix Josephy: Prince George local agent

Beatrix Josephy, new Prince George local agent, was called to the bar in 1994 and has been practising law in Prince George for more than 15 years. Beatrix opened her new local agent office right across the street from the Prince George Courthouse on April 29, 2010. Her two staff members, Chantelle and Frankie provide intake services to clients at Beatrix's office and in the courthouse itself. (See Where to find a legal aid office and click on "Prince George" for the addresses, phone numbers, and hours of service.)

Beatrix has an extensive background with helping British Columbians with low incomes access the justice system. Before going to law school, she spent four years as a legal information counsellor at the LSS Quesnel Community Law Office. In this role, she provided legal information and assistance to individuals who often suffered from a host of addiction or mental health issues. Beatrix derives great satisfaction from helping disadvantaged people access the justice system. "It is easy for the society at large to ignore the rights of, and take advantage of, poor and uneducated individuals, and providing legal aid services helps reduce the inequity these individuals face," Beatrix said.

In addition to her background with the community law office, Beatrix has several other close ties to the community. She has associations with people and agencies that work closely with individuals who frequently have health issues or drug or alcohol addictions in addition to legal issues. These people and agencies include Phoenix Transition House; the local native courtworker, Donald Trudeau; Elizabeth Fry personnel; local drug and alcohol counsellors; administrators at the local Baldy Hughes Treatment Centre; and Positive Living North. Beatrix also has considerable experience working with Aboriginal clients. She is familiar with the unique challenges they often face, such as literacy issues and a multi-generational history of deprivation, violence, and substance abuse.

When not busy with her work as a local agent, Beatrix spends time gardening, skiing, and mountain biking.

Chantelle has worked for Beatrix as a legal assistant since February 2009. Outside of the office, she enjoys going for walks with her dogs, reading, and spending time with her family.

Frankie joined the office in April 2010 as a local agent assistant after working at Sprott Shaw Community College. She enjoys reading, gardening, sports, and spending time with her children.