The firm of Kloot and Associates has fortified its ranks, bringing on Jaco (Jack) la Grange.
la Grange is originally from South Africa, and he practiced law for about nine years in Bloemfontein, the judicial Capital of South Africa. He also has a masters in International Trade Law.
Prior to coming to Canada, he spent three years teaching on Jeju Island in South Korea, where he met his partner, and they eventually settled in Calgary.
He connected with Kloot and was welcomed into the practice.
“I actually found Colin online as another South African, and I was intrigued because I had visited Drumheller in the past, and I found it lovely. So I thought this is a very interesting route I could take," he said.
While he has experience in law, to practice, he was taken on to article under Colin Kloot, who has experience as a principal for Students at Law.
“He will probably be my final student. I am very excited to have him on board and to create continuity in the firm. I have nothing but the highest expectations for his abilities,” said Kloot. “We are looking forward to the next year of him completing his article successfully and joining our bar.”
To get to this point, he had to complete a number of NCA exams and take a course to get what is equivalent to a Canadian Law Degree.
“I have my qualifications, and now I am just doing my articles," said la Grange.
He will fill an important role in general practice at the firm as Bill Herman is planning to end his practice at the end of March.
So far, he is enjoying the small-town life of Drumheller and the friendliness of the residents, even enjoying an impromptu offer to help him move in.
“It is so refreshing… the city is still in my blood, so I am adapting to life here. It’s not hard, but I think the people make it very easy to as well. Everyone has been so nice.”
