The lawyers and staff at Bishop & McKenzie LLP wish to acknowledge the recent retirement of Wanda Fawcett after 30 years of practice and a distinguished career with the firm. Wanda’s last day with Bishop & McKenzie LLP was December 31, 2022.
Wanda grew up in Edmonton Alberta where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree, with Distinction, and later her Bachelor of Law Degree in 1991 from the University of Alberta. Following graduation, Wanda articled with Bishop & McKenzie LLP and was called to the Alberta Bar in 1992.
Wanda’s practice was principally focused in Wills & Estates, and she was instrumental in developing the firm’s strong Wills & Estates team. Wanda held the Trust and Estate Practitioner designation, which was awarded by the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners.
Wanda used her strong legal skills and expertise to the great benefit of both her clients and Bishop & McKenzie LLP. Wanda’s door was also always open, and she was actively engaged in sharing her knowledge with other members of the firm and mentoring younger lawyers.
Wanda also enjoyed sharing her knowledge with the community, both within the profession and outside of it, as she regularly participated in seminars, including those presented by the Legal Education Society of Alberta and Metro Continuing Education, amongst many others. Always keen to discuss with her clients the opportunities for and benefits of charitable giving through the vehicle of Wills and endowment funds, Wanda herself gave back to the community throughout her career. In this regard she continues to be a supporter of, and regular volunteer at Edmonton's Food Bank.
Throughout her career Wanda went above and beyond to help her clients, always taking time to listen to them and to understand their concerns and objectives. She regularly travelled, often on short notice, to client’s homes or the hospital to meet people unable to come into the office. Wanda did more than her share of pro bono work, and was always willing to help people with limited financial resources. She developed lasting relationships with many of her clients, receiving over the years far more thank cards and gifts of home-made cookies than your average lawyer. Wanda continues to a source of friendship and support to some of her former clients.
For these, and all her other tangible and intangible contributions to Bishop & McKenzie LLP’s clients, lawyers, students, and staff, as well as the community, over the past 30 years, we are deeply grateful and wish Wanda the very best in the future.