Claire Hatcher

Starting May 1, Claire Hatcher will pause her role at Pender Litigation. She's diving deeper into her passion for representing law enforcement and teachers in British Columbia, but assures her current clients they won't notice any bumps in the road during this transition.

Since 2003, Vancouver has known Claire as a formidable criminal defence attorney. Her legal battles range from the Provincial Court's straightforward trials to the more intricate ones in the Supreme Court of British Columbia, not to mention her presence in appellate courts up to the Supreme Court of Canada. Claire's clients hail from across the province.

Claire's track record is impressive, particularly in handling DUI and drug-related cases. She's also carved out a niche for herself defending sexual assault cases, especially those involving abuse of trust, like those disturbing instances where teachers prey on students. Beyond that, Claire steps up for professionals facing career-threatening disciplinary actions due to criminal allegations.

Her expertise was sought after by the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry, where she dissected the legal and societal failings in the investigation of serial killer Robert William Pickton. Claire's not just confined to criminal defence; she's a regular in Police Act proceedings, advocating for civilian oversight of the police, and she's no stranger to the Human Rights Tribunal either.

Even the Attorney General has called on Claire's services, appointing her as ad hoc Crown counsel in several cases. This role reversal enriches her understanding of the prosecutorial process, an advantage she leverages for her clients on the defence side.

Claire's reputation as a sharp trial lawyer and a calm negotiator precedes her. Known for her meticulous preparation and tenacity, she's a force to be reckoned with, both inside and outside the courtroom.

Her educational background is as diverse as her legal practice. Claire holds a law degree from the University of Victoria, alongside an Honours degree in Sociology and Family and Child Studies from the University of Guelph. This unique combination equips her to deal empathetically and effectively with crimes of a very personal nature.

Active in the legal community, Claire is a member of several prestigious associations and contributes her time and expertise to various professional and community initiatives. She's a mentor to emerging lawyers, a speaker at professional events, and an advocate for judicial mentoring and better parental benefits in the legal profession. Outside the courtroom, Claire champions for children and families facing challenges, and even finds time to coach youth soccer and basketball, showcasing her commitment to her community and profession.