Elizabeth Reid (Law Clerk)

Elizabeth graduated from the Law Clerk Program at Sir Sandford Fleming College in 2013, where she consistently earned a place on the Dean’s List throughout all four semesters. Her hard work and academic excellence were recognized with the Peterborough Law Association Award—given to the top student in the program.

Elizabeth began her career with the firm shortly after completing a work placement with the Crown Attorney’s Office. For over a decade, she’s been a key part of our team, working closely with Robert W. Becker as his Law Clerk. Elizabeth plays an important role in supporting every step of the legal process from a client’s initial contact to the final resolution of a file. She’s also an active member of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association, Law Clerk Division.

A proud member of the Peterborough community, Elizabeth is an alumna of both PCVS and Sir Sandford Fleming College. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing with a good book and spending quality time with her friends, family, and beloved cat.

Rachel Downey (Law Clerk)

Rachel graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2018, where she studied Criminology with minors in Law & Society and Psychology. She then went on to complete the Paralegal program at Humber College in 2021 and recently earned her license. Throughout her studies, Rachel consistently made the Dean’s List—a testament to her dedication and hard work.

At the firm, Rachel works closely with David A. Beckett as his Law Clerk, supporting him every step of the way—from the first client meeting all the way through to resolving each case.

When she’s not busy at work, Rachel loves diving into podcasts, hitting the slopes for some skiing, and spending quality time with her dogs, friends, and family.

Maggie Baxter Ciano (Paralegal)

Before finding her passion in her current profession, Maggie explored her education in some wonderful places—studying at universities in Edinburgh, Scotland, and Dublin, Ireland, before completing her B.A. at the University of Guelph, where she focused on psychology and sociology.

Maggie then pursued her legal studies at Sir Sandford Fleming College, graduating from both the Law Clerk and Paralegal programs. She was proud to earn a spot on the President’s Honour Roll as the top graduate in the Paralegal program, thanks to her dedication and high GPA. After graduation, she had the rewarding experience of teaching students in both programs, sharing her knowledge and passion.

Today, Maggie is a licensed Paralegal with the Law Society of Ontario and member of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association, Law Clerk Division. At Gowland, Boriss, she handles the firm’s Accident Benefits claims and has taken the lead in proceedings before the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board and the Social Security Tribunal. She is also involved in mediations, pre-arbitration hearings, settlement conferences, and private mediations alongside the firm’s partners.

Maggie’s role goes beyond Accident Benefits—she also supports clients with Long-Term Disability disputes and Canada Pension Plan Disability applications and appeals, always striving to make a positive difference in their lives.

When she’s not advocating for clients, Maggie loves making memories with her unstoppable kid and adventurous husband. She enjoys traveling and cherishing quality time with family and friends, always trying to balance work with life’s joyful moments.