Nicole Handford^* Lawyer

Nicole grew up in Penticton and graduated from the University of British Columbia with degrees in Forestry (Natural Resource Conservation) and Law. She was called to the Bar in 2002.

Nicole practiced with Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP in Vancouver and Boyle & Company Lawyers in Penticton before joining James Smirle in 2017.  While in Vancouver, Nicole’s practice was focused primarily on banking and real estate law, however since moving to Penticton in 2004 her practice has expanded to include corporate and commercial law. Nicole has developed a business law practice that includes the review and preparation of agreements relating to small business, the incorporation of companies and societies, corporate reorganizations, the purchase and sale of businesses, the negotiation and drafting of commercial leases, licensing agreements, and other business-related agreements.

When not in the office, Nicole enjoys travelling and spending time with her family.

James Smirle^* Lawyer

James is a solicitor focusing on corporate and commercial law, real estate transactions and estate planning and administration. James also regularly acts for financial institutions on lending matters and is a member of the CBABC Banking Law Section.

James holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business and a law degree from the University of British Columbia. Prior to forming Handford Smirle LLP with Nicole Handford, James articled and practiced with Farris, Vaughan, Wills & Murphy LLP.

Raised in Summerland and a graduate of Summerland Secondary School, James is an active member of the community. He currently sits on the board of directors of the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation and the Giants Head Grind steering committee. He has also coached for both the Penticton and Summerland Minor Hockey Associations.

Outside of the office you’ll find James enjoying time with his young family, at the hockey rink or on a golf course.

Shawn Courtney^* Lawyer

Shawn grew up in Kelowna and has a Bachelor of Arts (With Distinction) and a Juris Doctor from the University of Victoria. He was called to the Bar in 2018.

During law school Shawn completed co-op terms with the Yukon Department of Justice, Farris, Vaughan, Wills, & Murphy LLP in Kelowna, and Chandler & Thong-ek Law Offices Ltd. in Bangkok, Thailand. After law school Shawn was a judicial law clerk at the British Columbia Supreme Court. Shawn then articled and practiced at the Ministry of Attorney General and later was in-house counsel at the British Columbia Civil Resolution Tribunal.

At Handford Smirle LLP Shawn practices business law, estate planning and administration, real estate transactions and employment law.

When not in the office, Shawn enjoys staying active and exploring the South Okanagan’s natural beauty with his partner.

Richard P. Thompson, K.C.^* Lawyer