Fraser MacLean

Fraser embodies the quintessence of a pioneering legal mind, melding strategic acumen with a forward-looking approach to navigate the intricacies of family law. His legal journey, marked by unwavering dedication and a compassionate ethos, underscores his commitment to guiding clients through the complexities of family matters, ensuring their path forward is both clear and empowering.

From his initial foray into the legal field, Fraser has consistently championed his clients' interests, leveraging negotiations, mediations, and courtroom advocacy to secure favorable outcomes. His journey has been punctuated by a series of commendable achievements, showcasing his leadership, dedication, and an unparalleled commitment to exceeding the expectations in legal practice.

Fraser's legal prowess has been recognized across all judicial levels in British Columbia, including the prestigious BC Court of Appeal. His extensive portfolio of reported judgments attests to his adeptness in handling intricate litigation, reflecting a deep-seated expertise that has been honed across high-profile cases on local, national, and international stages.

One of Fraser's notable early achievements includes serving as the second chair in a landmark five-day trial at the BC Supreme Court, resulting in a significant reapportionment of family property in the case of Dennis v Gill, 2018 BCSC 1533. His role as lead counsel in the case of Bhimani v. Beninteso, 2020 BCCA 174, further exemplified his capacity to navigate complex legal waters, successfully addressing issues of property division and compliance with disclosure obligations.

Fraser's advocacy has also led to pivotal changes in interim orders, as demonstrated in S.T.M. v. C.G.H., 2020 BCPC 181, where he achieved a notable increase in parenting time for his client, alongside securing a police enforcement clause to safeguard against the wrongful denial of parenting time. His collaborative efforts in C.J.H. v. Q.T., 2021 BCSC 976, resulted in a substantial retroactive child support award amid the challenges posed by international relocation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Further highlighting his versatility, Fraser played a key role in K.R. v. J.R., 2022 BCSC 1856, orchestrating a favorable outcome in a high-stakes, high-net-worth trial, which notably resulted in a significant retroactive child support award, dating back to 2016, without the imposition of spousal support. His strategic acumen was again on display in Cho v. Kim, 2023 BCSC 780, where he successfully challenged a final order obtained at Summary Trial.

In perhaps one of his most distinguished accomplishments, Fraser served as lead counsel in Zhang v. Chen, 2023 BCSC 2206, securing one of the highest interim support awards in British Columbia's history, underscoring his exceptional skill in managing cases of significant financial complexity.

Beyond the courtroom, Fraser contributes to the legal community through educational endeavors, having established the MacLean Law Prize in Family Law and the Doug Eastwood Q.C. MacLean Law scholarship at Thomson Rivers University Faculty of Law, reflecting his commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.

Fraser's personal pursuits mirror the vibrancy of his professional life. An ardent sports enthusiast, he has engaged in hockey, boxing, golf, and extensive travel, seeking to immerse himself in new cultures and experiences, which enrich his perspective both personally and professionally.

His insights into the challenges and nuances of family law have been shared at esteemed platforms such as the County of Carleton Law Association and the Pacific Business & Law Institute, focusing on contemporary issues such as parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic and the complexities of 'Grey Divorce.'

Fraser's legal acumen has not only garnered recognition within judicial circles but also caught the attention of major publications, including the New York Post, USA Today, Rolling Stone Magazine, TMZ, ENews, People Magazine, Vanity Fair, Daily Mail, and CBC News, particularly for his representation in high-profile cases involving public figures like Lil Tay.

Fraser's educational background, with a Juris Doctor from Thompson Rivers University Law School and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Victoria, underpins his comprehensive understanding of law and humanities. His accolades, such as being featured in the Best Estate Lawyers in Vancouver and setting up significant legal scholarships, alongside practical advice on selecting divorce lawyers, reflect his multifaceted contribution to the field of law.

Since joining MacLean Law in 2016, Fraser has ascended from a summer student to a pivotal figure within the firm, embodying the ideals of excellence, innovation, and compassion in the practice of law. His journey, marked by significant professional milestones and a profound impact on clients' lives, stands as a testament to his dedication to the principles of justice and equity in the realm of family law.