Kamloops, Canada – A legal battle involving Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson over nearly $35,000 in allegedly unpaid legal fees is slated for a two-day court hearing in January. The dispute centers around a claim by his former lawyer, David McMillan, who asserts that the mayor owes him for services rendered between 2021 and 2024.
During a preliminary court session that lasted about 35 minutes on Wednesday, both parties presented their initial positions before B.C. Supreme Court Associate Judge Jennifer Keim. McMillan, who argues that the fees are overdue, provided a binder filled with documentations of the unpaid amounts starting from 2021.
In contrast, Mayor Hamer-Jackson insists that the legal work was agreed to be provided free of charge or on a contingency basis, meaning payment would be due only upon a favorable outcome from judicial proceedings. Judge Keim acknowledged the complexity of the case and requested detailed affidavits from McMillan regarding five specific files mentioned in the binder.
The judge has also instructed Hamer-Jackson to submit all concerning evidence in response to the claim within 60 days. Meanwhile, McMillan has a deadline of November 15 to present updated documents, and Hamer-Jackson must file his comprehensive response by January 10.
Further complicating matters is another legal issue involving the mayor, a defamation lawsuit against Kamloops Councilor Katie Neustaeter. Judge Keim expressed concerns about possible breaches of solicitor-client privilege if certain details of these cases are discussed in open court. Consequently, she has set a hearing for November 7 to decide whether key aspects of the hearing should remain confidential.
Significantly, during Wednesday’s proceedings, Hamer-Jackson defended himself without legal counsel. Judge Keim suggested he seek independent legal advice moving forward. Speaking to reporters after the briefing, Hamer-Jackson stated he believes he does not owe McMillan any money, mentioning their prior agreement on the nature of the legal services.
On a related note, another court appearance awaits Mayor Hamer-Jackson in November as part of the defamation suit. At that time, Neustaeter will attempt to have the lawsuit dismissed.
The mounting legal challenges for Mayor Hamer-Jackson highlight an increasingly complex web of litigation, underscoring the important interplay between public service, personal relations, and professional accountability. As the January court date approaches, both legal teams are expected to fine-tune their arguments, which could potentially influence the mayor’s standing and governance in Kamloops. Meanwhile, McMillan declined to comment further on the case, citing ongoing court proceedings.