Welcome to the first edition of Behind the Mask, where you get to know a Litco team member a little better.
First up is Fred Litwiniuk, President of Litco Law. Fred is a man of many talents, from writing Christmas songs to cleaning toilets, although apparently ‘email’ isn’t one of those talents. Watch his interview or read below to learn more about this Renaissance man.
Why did you become a lawyer?
My dad is a lawyer, my brother is a lawyer and my mom is an accountant (she helped co-found the company) so it’s a real family business. I’m not so great at numbers so becoming a lawyer seemed like a better choice.
What was your first job?
Not surprisingly, it was at Litco Law. I did lots of things; filing, pushing papers, you name it, but most memorable was as the janitor. My brother Todd and I had to clean the office for a great number of years and that included cleaning a lot of toilets, it was fun! (Kind of) It taught us a good work ethic, and for that I am grateful.
Why do you work in Personal Injury law?
Litco Law has been practicing Personal Injury law since 1976 (before I was born) so it’s something we’ve always done. My dad Larry decided to practice Personal Injury because he saw how much the people who came to him needed his help, and that’s something that really resonated with me, and still does. One of the things that’s great about injury law is that we don’t get paid unless and until you get paid, so everyone can afford to come get some great legal representation, get the help they need and at the end of the day, we all win and celebrate together.
What has been a highlight in your career?
The most rewarding moment in my time at Litco Law was the day Todd and I officially took over from our parents and the founders, Larry and Marianne Litwiniuk. It’s really important to me to make them proud and that we build upon their incredible legacy.
Tell us something that isn’t on your resume?
I spent a lot of time as a singer and songwriter. I released a couple of albums and a Christmas single. My music was played across North America and across the world on the radio. I was fortunate enough to have some of my music featured in films and on television, and I also spent some time as a commercial songwriter writing songs for other people.
Which one of our core values do you most identify with?
If I had to pick one, it would be empathy. It’s key to what we do, it’s at the core of who we are. The ability to understand what other people are feeling and what they’re going through, and to help them to take steps to better their situation is the absolute core of our success.
Rapid Fire Questions
Coffee or tea? Tea all the way.
Favorite ice cream place in Calgary? It’s got to be Village Ice Cream.
If you could have any superpower what would it be? I’ve always wanted to fly.
One thing you are bad at? Email.
Favorite holiday? Christmas, LOVE Christmas.
If you could speak any language what would it be? Mandarin, I want to speak Mandarin for sure.
Favorite movie? Highbrow, The Godfather, lowbrow, The Wedding Singer.
Who would play you in a movie of your life? Oh my goodness. How about Seth Rogen?
Favourite instrument? Definitely the acoustic guitar.
Favourite place to visit in Alberta/Canada? I’m probably going to have to go with Lake Louise, I love Lake Louise.
