Brian Higgins died peacefully on July 16, 2017 at the age of 67. Brian is survived by his wife Jennifer Davidson; his sisters Peggy, Mary Anne, Kathleen and Julia; his brothers Kevin and Brendan; and his faithful companions Brillo and Bubba Looey.

Brian was the Supervising Lawyer for the Law Students’ Legal Advice Program (LSLAP) at UBC Law for 23 years from 1988 to 2011. Over his time at LSLAP, Brian mentored, taught and inspired thousands of law students who in turn provided pro bono assistance to tens of thousands of low-income clients. Brian’s optimism, humour, passion and knowledge made LSLAP the best part of law school for innumerable students and helped create generations of lawyers committed to the cause of access to justice. Brian’s good cheer reached everyone at the law school: students, staff, professors and colleagues. Neither LSLAP, nor the Allard School of Law would be what they are today without Brian.

Outside of LSLAP, Brian extended his love of teaching and mentoring by coaching youth football. Just as he did in his role as LSLAP Supervising Lawyer, “Coach Higgins” helped to shape and develop the skills and character of his players.

In everything he did, Brian touched the lives, hearts and souls of countless people.

Brian’s dedication to access to justice, legal education and mentoring is now carried on by the myriad lawyers and the many football players he both coached and inspired.

A Celebration of Brian’s Extraordinary Life will be held on July 31, 2017 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Northview Golf Course, 6857 168 St. Surrey, British Columbia.

Brian’s family, the Law Students’ Legal Advice Program (LSLAP), the Allard School of Law and many other individuals who were inspired by Brian have created a fund for a scholarship in his honour at UBC.

Your gift to the Brian Higgins Memorial Fund will help to establish a scholarship to support an LSLAP student who has shown dedication to the cause of access to justice and who has volunteered substantial time and effort in delivering pro bono legal services to those who would otherwise have none. Providing financial support for law students who are dedicated to volunteering their knowledge and skills to those most in need is a fitting way to honour and continue Brian’s legacy.