The independent legal insurance consultant rises every day at 4:30 a.m. And that's without the aid of an alarm clock, she adds. It's all part of her drive to run a successful business.

Her dedication has earned her some praise from local community groups.

Ms. Cousins is a partner at Synergy Business Solutions and recently won the outstanding business award from the Durham Home and Small Business Association. She has since been named the 2008-09 president of the association.

In the past year Ms. Cousins also received recognition as the Toastmaster of the year from her local club.

She and her partner James Jesson market prepaid legal services to individuals, families and companies.

The product works a bit like group health benefits. Subscribers pay a monthly fee to be part of the service. The fee covers unlimited phone consultations with lawyers.

Membership also includes a will and power of attorney. There are also discounts for representation.

"It was created to protect middle income earners," she said. "Rich people have the money to afford their lawyers and low income families can access legal aid."

Everyone needs access to a lawyer, even if they don't think they do, she said.

"Most of us don't know our rights," she said. "It's the comfort of knowing you can pick up the phone and call."

To learn more about PPL Legal Care of Canada call 905-244-4868 or e-mail Ms. Cousins at cousins@prepaidlegal.com.