Erica A. Blythe (Van de Laar)

Erica was born and raised in the Niagara Region.  She grew up on a 3^rd generation grape and fruit farm in the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Erica received her Bachelor of Business Management with honours from Western University in 2016, where she earned a full tuition scholarship for academic excellence and leadership.  She later obtained her Juris Doctor degree in 2019 from Western University, where she was the recipient of several awards, including the prestigious Edward C. Elwood Q.C Prize for the highest overall standings in Wills & Trusts, along with the Legal Leaders for Diversity Trust Fund Scholarship.

Erica was called to the Ontario Bar in 2020, and accepted a job at a small firm in the GTA as a family law lawyer. She was thrilled to return home and be a part of the Martin Sheppard Fraser team in 2021.

Erica has an exceptional work ethic, enjoys learning, and helping others.  Erica takes a client-centric approach to law. She makes it a priority to respond promptly to clients, and to keep them informed at all stages of the retainer.

Erica was one of the proud recipients of the 2023 Niagara Catholic District Schoolboard Distinguished Alumni Awards. Erica volunteers her time as a motivational speaker at local schools and presenting to teachers and support staff. She is a frequent speaker of estate planning in the community.

In her free time, Erica enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, family and friends. She loves fitness, is an avid reader, and enjoys helping on the family farm.