Dear Editor,
“You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” – Khalil Gibran
The Directors of the Linden Legal Aid Centre hereby extend heartfelt condolences to the husband, children, family and friends of Deborah Backer who was a founding director of the centre as well as one of several senior attorneys-at-law who generously donated their legal services to the people of Linden.
Deborah was respected and adored by the many women, men and children she represented both in the Christianburg Magistrate’s Court and the High Court. She was always humble, approachable, and patient, with the uncanny ability to see humour in almost any situation. Despite her hectic work schedule as an attorney in private practice in Georgetown, as well as a senior member of parliament, Deborah found the time to travel to Linden to listen to the stories of people who would otherwise never have been able to afford an attorney, much less benefit from the best legal expertise this country has to offer. Her wealth of experience in civil proceedings and mediation and her ability to emphathize with the plight of the poor and dispossessed, resulted in the satisfactory resolution of many contentious civil proceedings where the differences between the parties initially appeared to be irreconcilable.
Notwithstanding her amiable disposition, Deborah was a fearless fighter for the cause of clients whom she felt were victims of injustice. In several cases, she persevered for years in the High Court to keep women and children from being wrongfully evicted in contested property proceedings. She welcomed legal challenges and handled complex civil matters with the ease and confidence of an expert, invariably bringing relief to very grateful clients. Through it all, she was kind, compassionate and respectful, endearing herself to all seeking assistance from the centre.
Deborah’s contribution to the Linden Legal Aid Centre was monumental. Her willingness to work for equal access to justice, despite her very busy schedule, set an example that should inspire all. There is no better way to honour her memory than to give as she has given in service to the many poor and vulnerable men, women and children who daily face the bar of justice without the assistance of an attorney.
We extend sincere thanks and gratitude to Deborah’s husband, children and family for her service.
Yours faithfully,
Fitz Peters, Chairperson
Horace James, Vice-Chairperson
Charles Fung-a-Fatt, Treasurer
Joan Ward-Mars, Secretary
Pansy Armstrong, Member
Linden Legal Aid Centre