Find a Professional

Sue is a family lawyer who was called to the Bar in 2022 and graduated from law school at the height of the pandemic. She is committed to the Collaborative process, as she believes that the court process can be incredibly stressful, unpredictable, and traumatizing for families. She believes that every family is unique and as such, is solutions-oriented towards finding a creative outcome that all parties can be satisfied with.

Prior to a career in law, Sue was an organizational development expert, specializing in implementing and facilitating safe spaces for employees in the workplace. She has always been driven by impacting people on a personal level, and has a strong background in client management and mediation. She has found it rewarding to apply her previous expertise towards helping families deal with their separations in both low and high conflict situations.

If you would like to discuss options that may help you and your family, please contact Sue directly via email at [email protected].

Adrianna obtained her Juris Doctor from the University of Alberta Faculty of Law in 2021, where she honed her legal skills and gained insights into the complexities of family law. Prior to that, she completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Manitoba, majoring in Criminology and minoring in French. This diverse academic background has equipped her with a well-rounded perspective that enriches her approach to family law cases.

Adrianna’s practice focuses primarily on Family Law and Child Protection. Adrianna is a certified Collaborative family lawyer and believes in the power of collaboration and open communication to achieve favorable outcomes for her clients. Navigating family law issues can be emotionally taxing, and she is dedicated to creating an environment where clients can feel heard and understood. Whether it’s divorce, child custody, spousal support, co-habitation agreements, or adoption, Adrianna approaches each case with a deep commitment to finding solutions that prioritize the well-being of the family. In addition, Adrianna is fluent in both French and Italian, languages that allow her to effectively communicate with a diverse range of clients.

Beyond her legal practice, Adrianna is a board member and actively involved in the Fogolar Association of Winnipeg which is an organization created to connect Italians who have immigrated from the Friuli Vanezia Giulia region of Italy. Outside of her legal work, Adrianna loves hiking, running, and skiing.

Lori came to the practice of family law with a background in social sciences and understands the complex dynamics that families experience at the time of separation. Her focus is on assisting families with the transition from a traditional (or nuclear) structure to one that is modular (flexible in structure and arrangement).

Lori has helped many families to make this transition while maintaining the ability to communicate and share the ongoing joys and responsibilities of co-parenting. Lori has practiced family law exclusively since 1997. Prior, she did personal injury work and general civil litigation.

As a busy mother of three, Lori knows firsthand the pleasures and demands of family life. Lori is a member of the Law Society of Manitoba, the Canadian Bar Association, Collaborative Practice Manitoba and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Chidera Anadi-Mbanefo is a dual-qualified lawyer practising in Niverville, Manitoba. She was called to the Nigeria Bar in 2015, and the Manitoba Bar in 2021. She is currently the principal counsel of CAM’s LAW OFFICE in Niverville, Manitoba. She practices primarily in the area’s of Family Law, Real Estate, Wills & Estate and Civil Litigation.

Chidera is also a trained Collaborative Family Practice Lawyer in Manitoba.
Chidera is skilled in resolving family matters outside the courtroom.

Chidera has been active in the community, and enjoys volunteering. She currently sits on the Executive Council of the Manitoba Bar Association as its Equity Member-At -Large.She is also the Co-chair of the Manitoba Bar Association’s International Trained Lawyers’ Section, and a Board member of the Niverville Chamber of Commerce.

Outside the practice of Law, Chidera loves spending time with her husband and 3 kids

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Alex is a veteran lawyer who been has been practicing mainly family law in Manitoba for over 40 years. He is a long term member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba. Alex has a long history of involvement in child protection law as well.

The collaborative approach to resolving divorce, separation, property, support, and custody issues is far superior to the old-fashioned, expensive litigation process. It gives each party a voice and control over the process.

Alex would be happy to meet with you for a free half-hour consultation with no obligation on your part.

Phone: 204-947-9123

Mercedes joined Mitousis Lemieux Howard following her call to the Bar, eager to work in an environment where negotiation and collaboration are central to resolving family law matters. Prior to joining the MLH team, Mercedes completed her articles with Manitoba Justice – Legal Services Branch where she gained litigation experience and managed the Maintenance Enforcement Program docket.  Her hardworking nature and strong negotiation skills provide clients with assurance when moving forward through difficult issues, including separation and divorce.  Mercedes believes there are various ways to resolve conflict that can help parties remain amicable; her focus is to assist clients in finding practical solutions that fit their families.

Giving back to the community is important to Mercedes. She is Chair of the Marketing Committee and a Director of Bravestone Centre which provides women and children affected by domestic violence with secure and safe on-site housing. She has volunteered with the Legal Help Centre and as a member of the board of directors of the North Point Douglas Women’s Centre.  She also volunteers at the Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre legal clinic. Mercedes has delivered workshops and presentations on family law topics for FGWRC and other organizations. She is an active member of the Manitoba Bar Association and was recently elected to the Young Lawyers Section Executive.

Mercedes immigrated to Canada at 9 years of age and knows the challenges that people with English as a second language experience. Fluently bilingual, she provides legal services in Spanish in order to help clients navigate the complexity of the legal system in a comfortable environment.

Mercedes keeps busy by going to the gym and listening to podcasts.  She enjoys perusing farmers markets, craft fairs, and supporting local artisans.

Judy, is a therapist, divorce coach, educator and trained Parenting Coordinator who is committed to providing professional services to individuals and families facing the challenging issues of separation and divorce.  Judy works together with parents in order to protect and sustain safe, healthy and meaningful parent-child relationships. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with all ages of children including those experiencing social, emotional and behavioural challenges. She is a Certified Canadian Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychological Association and is a Circles and PATHS process facilitator. In addition to being a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba, she is also a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Audra Bayer is a straight-shooter with over 20 years in family law. As a strong advocate for mediation and collaborative parenting, she keeps the best interests of the child at the forefront and empowers her clients to do the same.

Audra is a mediator and arbitrator, collaborative law practitioner and mother of five children. She previously served as a member of the Canadian Bar Association’s (CBA) National Alternative Dispute Resolution section, Co-Chair of the Okanagan Family Bar Section, and member of the CBA National Family Section.

As a family lawyer with a focus on the litigation, resolution, and mediation of high-conflict matters and cases, Audra is a skilled client advocate and an effective negotiator. She has obtained her certification to practice collaborative law and has completed courses in the LL.M program (Alternative Dispute Resolution) at York University in Ontario with a focus on dispute resolution, domestic violence, and high-conflict family law.

Audra has occupied several Executive Positions over the years with both the Provincial and National Canadian Bar Association Sections and volunteers in the community with a number of schools and organizations.

She is fluent in French and English and continues to practice in Manitoba as a litigator, mediator, arbitrator and collaborative law practitioner.

Mikaela graduated with her Juris Doctor degree from Robson Hall Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba in June 2023. Prior to law school, Mikaela obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Criminal Justice in 2019 from the University of Winnipeg.

During law school, Mikaela volunteered with W.I.S.E. (Working in Support of Equality) Manitoba’s No Means No Program as a youth facilitator (2020-2021) and a coordinator (2021-2023). Mikaela also volunteered with Frontier College as an online tutor (2020-2022) and Sex Workers of Winnipeg Action Coalition through Pro Bono Students Canada (2020-2021).

Furthermore, throughout law school Mikaela worked at Legal Help Centre as an administrative assistant. In her last year of law school Mikaela had an externship at Legal Help Centre where she gained practical experience working with clients and managing her own files.

Since Mikaela’s experience at Legal Help Centre, she has made it her goal to assist clients with their legal issues by working with them to make their experience with the legal system as seamless as possible. She is particularly passionate about fostering a trusting relationship with clients and ensuring that clients feel comfortable every step of the way.

Dan is the National Leader for BDO Canada’s Litigation Support Practice as well as the West Leader for the Valuations and Modelling practice. He has over 20 years experience in public practice, with the majority of this time spent in financial advisory.

Dan has worked on numerous Collaborative files and has been involved with Collaborative Practice Manitoba for over 10 years as a member of the Steering, Management, and Finance Committees. Dan also currently sits on the Collaborative Practice Canada and Misericordia Health Centre Board of Directors.

His practice areas include litigation support, valuations, financial and economic analysis, loss quantification, and financial modelling.

Dan has been qualified and testified as an expert over 10 times in the Manitoba Court of Queen ’s King’s Bench, Manitoba Land Values Appraisal Commission, Manitoba Disaster Assistance Appeal Board, and in arbitration proceedings in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. He has authored expert reports for internal and external transactions, shareholder and marital disputes, and other disputes.

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Alyssa has experienced many types of family dynamics in her life, to the intricacies of blended families to separation generally in families and between partners. This gives her an understanding of how complicated families and family issues can get, as well as a firm belief that many family issues can be resolved when there is dedication to come to resolutions in a good way.

Alyssa was called to the bar in 2020 and her practice has been exclusively in family law. She recognizes the importance of finding creative solutions when helping families, while navigating through the difficulties of separation. With her life experience and exclusive focus on family law, Alyssa has a perspective and skillset that she uses to help clients navigate a tough point in their lives efficiently and with empathy.

Loren Braul was called to the bar in 2013 and has been actively practicing family law since 2015. Loren is the only member of Collaborative Manitoba with a practice located in southern Manitoba, with offices in Altona, Winkler, and Morden. Loren’s undergraduate studies in Peace and Conflict Transformation at Canadian Mennonite University, which included training in mediation and conflict management, have also directly informed his approach to family law. Loren is a firm believer that there is more common-ground in our society than we might see at first glance, and that this also holds true for families in conflict. Using tools like interest-based negotiation and active listening, Loren’s preferred approach is to codify agreement where present and explore compromise where possible to minimize the stress and anxiety inherent in a significant transition like divorce or separation.

Tatiyana is an associate lawyer with Sternat Manaigre Law Corporation. She was called to the Manitoba Bar in 2010. Her practice has been primarily focused in the area of family law for most of her career, with experience in other areas such as wills and estates and residential real estate.

Tatiyana is committed to helping people and their families navigate and resolve issues that impact their daily lives. She strives to provide supportive and meaningful legal guidance to clients, whether entering a relationship or ending one. Tatiyana strongly believes in using a collaborative and negotiated approach to find a resolution, when possible and appropriate, so that clients can tailor the outcomes to best suit their family and be more sustainable. She also believes a collaborative process can help foster more open, cooperative and respectful communication, reduce conflict, keep parties’ child focused and provide opportunity for creative solutions. To that end, Tatiyana received her collaborative certification from Collaborative Practice Manitoba.

Shaylan was called to the bar in 2021 and is an associate practicing primarily in the area of Family Law at Mercier & Associates located at 1400-155 Carlton Street.

Shaylan is originally from Dauphin, Manitoba and obtained her Bachelor of Arts and law degree from the University of Manitoba.

Shaylan understands that separation can be a stressful time for clients and strives to find negotiated resolutions outside of court. She believes that a collaborative approach to family law minimizes conflict and allows clients to move forward with dignity and less stress than litigation.

If you are interested in working with Shaylan, please call or email her to see if she is able to assist you.

Phone: 204-947-9123

Ariadna’s goal is to make a difference in her clients’ lives by listening to their problems and helping them through difficult times in their lives. Integral to this is providing her clients with reliable information, practical advice and creative solutions. Ariadna believes that the Collaborative Practice provides a unique environment where clients are empowered to make decisions that are right for their families.

Ariadna is an associate at Mitousis Lemieux Howard Law Corporation, where she practises primarily in the area of family law. She is  bilingual and provides legal services in Ukrainian.

Actively participating in and giving back to the community is important to Ariadna. When not practicing law, Ariadna volunteers at the Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre legal clinic and serves as the Vice-President of the Ukrainian Youth Association – Winnipeg Branch as well as a board member of the Ukrainian Youth Association’s National Executive. She is also a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary School Board of Trustees where she serves as the secretary.

Erin is an associate lawyer with DFS Kaneski UnRuh LLP, where she practices exclusively in the area of Family Law, specializing in divorce, legal separations, prenuptial and cohabitation agreements, spousal agreements, child custody and support, and resolving the division of family property.  Erin completed her articles with the Winnipeg Law Office of Legal Aid Manitoba and was called to the bar in June of 2011.

Erin strives to reach fair and amicable resolutions through negotiation, rather than relying on court intervention.  Erin believes that a collaborative approach improves communication and encourages a child-focused approach to family re-structuring after a separation.

Erin is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba, the Canadian Bar Association and the Manitoba Bar Association.

In the community, Erin was a member of the Cre8ery Gallery.  From 2014 – 2016, she volunteered with the Manitoba Bar Association as a speaker, presenting on the topic, “Welcome to Family Law – What they didn’t teach you at law school.”  Erin is also a past volunteer for the University of Manitoba Law Centre, St. Amant Centre, and the Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre.

Stacey obtained a Juris Doctor in 2015 from the University of Manitoba and was called to the bar in 2016. She practices primarily in the area of Family Law as an Associate at Fraser Law. Prior to joining Fraser Law, Stacey completed her articles and practiced Family Law, Real Estate Law and Wills and Estates at McRoberts Law Office.

While Stacey has gained litigation experience, she believes that many of her clients would be better served through a less aggressive process.  She has completed the collaborative training program and believes that those skills are essential to assisting clients in finding creative resolutions that better suit their families.

Community:

• • Volunteer at the Legal Help Centre

Memberships and Associations:

• • Manitoba Bar Association

• • Collaborative Practice Manitoba

Greg Evans is committed to helping families achieve fair and dignified solutions using the collaborative family law process.

Greg has extensive experience using the collaborative family law process to assist families in coming to meaningful resolutions.  He is presently a member of the Steering Committee of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and is one of its founding members.  Greg co-teaches the Clinical Family Law course at the Faculty of Law and is a frequent speaker at Collaborative Practice Manitoba, the University of Manitoba, the Manitoba Bar Association and the Law Society of Manitoba on collaborative family law matters and family law matters in general.

Greg is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Tammy Fraser is a Registered Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with children, teens and adults as they negotiate significant life changes. As a divorce coach, she is particularly interested in supporting families through the challenges of separation in a manner that promotes the health and well being of all members. She is passionate about facilitating the restructuring of the family system in a way that minimizes the impact of these changes and strengthens the family’s ability to communicate, adapt and move forward.

In the collaborative divorce process, parents will be guided through the process of creating a long-term co-parenting plan. Through this experience of resolving conflicted issues in divorce, parents will develop the tools and communication skills to address future co-parenting issues more effectively.

Tammy has a private therapy practice and has experience training lawyers in the collaborative family law process through the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba. She is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Kendra was called to the bar in 2006 and has been practising family law and child protection since 2008. She joined Collaborative Practice Manitoba shortly after and enjoys working on collaborative files.

Kendra accepts Legal Aid certificates and encourages potential clients to see if they would qualify for legal aid through Legal Aid Manitoba.

As well as being a member of the Manitoba Bar Association, Kendra is the treasurer of the Child Protection Defence Lawyers Association and is on the board of the West Broadway Community Organization.

In her spare time she enjoys yoga, running and travelling.

Sarah obtained her Juris Doctor from the Univeristy of Manitoba – Robson Hall Faculty of Law in 2019 where she gained knowledge and skill in family law through research and clinical skill building. Prior to this, Sarah obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Winnipeg in 2016, earning the gold medal for highest academic standing in her department. Sarah completed her Articles with Legal Aid Manitoba working in both family law and child protection, and she received her call to the Manitoba Bar in 2020, after which she joined Bennet Waugh Corne.

Sarah’s practice focuses primarily on family law, including adoption and surrogacy and fertility law. Sarah is a certified Collaborative family lawyer, believing strongly in the interdisciplinary process to assist families through separation and divorce. By taking an intuitive and empathetic approach, Sarah is dedicated to fostering an environment of respect where clients feel understood, while assisting her clients in creative brainstorming for tailored solutions for each specific family.

As a parent of two children herself, Sarah believes in a child-centered approach considering the emotional, social and psychological needs of children, which she believes are priotized using the collaborative method.

In addition to her practice, Sarah volunteers with the Legal Help Centre and at her church. Sarah is an active member of the Manitoba Bar Association.

Outside of her legal practice, Sarah enjoys traveling, spending quality time with her partner and children, and playing a variety of instruments.

As a lawyer and trained mediator, Kara is committed to helping clients resolve conflict through the Collaborative Process and is dedicated to providing guidance and hope to families entering a new and unknown phase of life.

Kara’s goal is to put people first. She practices in an efficient and effective manner, while understanding the deeply rooted emotions that accompany a separation. Kara knows it is important to assist her clients in restructuring their families by focusing on the health of the family as a whole. She works toward resolutions outside of the Court room, allowing her clients to reduce costs, be creative in their solutions, and move forward with a positive co-parenting relationship.

If you would like to discuss options that may help you and your family through the separation process, please call or email Kara directly at (204) 954-8314 or [email protected]

Judy Haid has spent more than 35 years in private practice as a counselor. One of Manitoba’s best known and most respected counseling professionals Judy worked at the University of Winnipeg under what was then called the Interfaith Pastoral Institute (now Aurora), for Child & Family Services Manitoba, as the school psychologist for Ramah Hebrew School, and for the Manitoba Department of Education as a counselor to teachers at Norberry School in St. Vital.

She entered private practice in the mid 80’s in order to pursue and expand her professional interests, and work with more innovative therapies, such as Body Psychotherapy and others.

Judy has been a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba for more than 12 years, and has sat as a Member of the Board of Director’s for the past 2 terms. She also presently Co-chairs the Education and Training Committee, holding training sessions for new and evolving members.

Judy is known for having piloted and championed the Assertiveness Training movement in Manitoba. She has conducted workshops in Stress Management and Conflict Resolution for many professional associations and institutions across the province, including the Manitoba Dental Association, Manitoba Association of Registered Nurses, MONA, and others, as well as for the Canadian Government (Department of Public Works), various Manitoba Government departments, the Grace Hospital, Victoria General Hospital, along with a wide range of corporate businesses across the province.

Judy has also taught and trained in counseling certificate programs, in both mainstream and aboriginal studies programs for the University of Manitoba, for the University of Winnipeg’s Continuing Education Program, and for the public at large.

Alongside her partner Michael Smith, she has held Inner Child and healing workshops within aboriginal communities throughout Manitoba and NW Ontario.

Judy holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Manitoba, is registered by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and holds an International certification in BioEngergetics Analysis from the IIBA.

Practicing Lawyer since 1999 experienced in Family Law, Real Estate and General Practice.
Trained mediator with a focus on conflict resolution, trauma-informed practice and solving problems.
Father and Grandfather with experience in management, First Nation issues and government.

Lisa Huberdeau is bilingual with a deep commitment to assisting clients through the complexities of separation and divorce. With over two decades of experience working with families, she holds a Chartered Mediator designation from Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of Manitoba (ADRIM) and is a registered member of the Manitoba College of Social Workers (MCSW).

Lisa earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Winnipeg and her Baccalauréat en travail social from l’Université Laurentienne, and is actively involved in Collaborative Practice in Manitoba as a parent coach/mental health professional and is a Family Evaluator, Mediator, a Voice of the Child Interviewer and a Parent Coordinator.

Lisa provides comprehensive services related to parenting arrangements and conflict resolution. Her approach focuses on facilitating informed discussions and helping clients evaluate their options in the best interests of their families, ensuring a supportive and organized transition during challenging times. The services she provides are faster, less expensive and less contentious than the traditional divorce process such as attending court. These services provide education and support and reduces the stress and trauma of the divorce process and providing ease in co-parenting relationships.

Fluent in both English and French, she is committed to delivering personalized services that cater to the unique needs of each and every type of family, fostering effective communication and resolution.

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Jessica practises exclusively in the area of family law at Fillmore Riley LLP.  She received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Manitoba in 2015 and was admitted to the Manitoba Bar in 2016.

Jessica is an active member of Athena Leadership, and a long-time alumni volunteer with the music program at her high school.  She is a past cast member and current committee member of the annual Lawyer’s Play with the Manitoba Bar Association and Royal Manitoba Theatre Center.

She is a member of the Manitoba Bar Association as well as the Canadian Bar Association.  Having completed the requirements for her collaborative certification in Spring 2017, Jessica is excited to have the opportunity to work with clients within the supportive and flexible framework that collaborate practice provides.  Jessica strongly believes that the collaborative model can result in the most efficient and sustainable outcomes for families.

Morgan obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in 2018, followed by her Juris Doctor in 2021. Since being called to the Bar in 2022, she has primarily focused on family law. Morgan advocates for a non-adversarial, collaborative approach to resolving family disputes, believing that this method enhances communication and promotes a child-focused perspective during separation and family restructuring.

Beyond her legal practice, Morgan is deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community. Through her involvement with the Women’s Legal Education Action Fund (LEAF), she actively advocates for gender equality and social justice, causes close to her heart.

Amanda practises exclusively in the area of family law at Fillmore Riley LLP since May 2006. She received her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba in 2002 and was admitted to the Manitoba Bar in 2003.

Amanda currently acts as the Treasurer and Secretary for the Parent Advisory Council for La Barriere Crossings School and is a past Treasurer and Secretary for the Parent Advisory Council for Parc La Salle School.  Amanda also is a past member of the Board of Directors for Richmond Kings Nursery School.

She is a member of the Manitoba Bar Association as well as the Canadian Bar Association. Amanda has recently completed the requirements for her collaborative certification in April 2015 and is now a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba. Amanda believes that the collaborative approach offers a unique and supportive process for separating families where each party is provided the opportunity to have more control of the process to reach a timely resolution.

Jonathan practices in family law with an emphasis on divorce and separation, pre-nuptial and cohabitation agreements, parenting agreements and division of assets.

Jonathan believes that resolving family disputes cooperatively and collaboratively helps deescalate conflict and minimize the emotional toll that divorce has on all those involved.

Jonathan uses his collaborative law and mediation training to craft unique solutions for his client’s needs. Although trained in collaborative law and mediation, Jonathan does not shy away from litigation when required.

Jonathan also maintains a legal practice in the territory of Nunavut, advising Inuit organizations and other entities on issues such as treaty rights, land use planning, and mineral claims.

Tanya M. Keller (Johannesson) graduated with a LL.B. from the University of Manitoba in 2008. She articled and practiced as an associate at D’Arcy & Deacon LLP in family law and estate litigation for almost nine years until joining the firm of Sternat Manaigre Law Corporation where she practised from 2017-2023.

Tanya has 15 years experience in practising mostly family law with some estates and real estate. She has represented clients in all levels of Court in Manitoba. She has a special interest in the intersection of estates and family law.

Tanya has been active in the community and enjoys volunteering for various organizations, including the Manitoba Bar Association where she was the co-chair of the Law Day Committee (2017-2019), Co Chair of the Women Lawyer’s Forum (2017-2018), became a council member of the Manitoba Bar Association in 2017, an Executive Committee member in 2019, and the President of the Manitoba Bar Association (2022-2023).

Tanya donates her time to various other community organizations. She enjoys mentoring law students and one of her favorite volunteer activities is supervising the drop-in clinics at the Legal Help Centre. She also enjoys contributing her time and support to the Community Legal Education Association (CLEA).

Receiving his law degree at the University of Manitoba in 2006 following a lengthy career in health care, Les articled with Pitblado in 2006 and received his Call to the Bar in 2007. He practices in the areas of family law and estate litigation where it interfaces with family property accounting, committeeship and the passing of accounts in relation to estate management.

Honours and Awards:

• • H.I. Corne Prize for the highest standing in Problems in Contract and Tort, 2006

• • D.A. Thompson, Q.C. Prize for the highest standing in The Limits of the Law, 2006

• • D.A. Thompson, Q.C. Prize for the highest standing in The Law and Bio-Ethics, 2006

• • D.A. Thompson, Q.C. Prize for the highest standing in Aboriginal Peoples and Land Claims, 2006

• • D.A. Thompson, Q.C. Prize for the highest standing in Aboriginal Peoples and The Law, 2006

• • Dean’s Honour List, 2003

Memberships and Associations:

• • Manitoba Bar Association

• • Canadian Bar Association

• • Collaborative Practice Manitoba

Sandra has been practising Family Law for 30 years.

Sandra’s main focus is to assist clients through collaboration, problem solving and minimizing conflict. She is a strong believer that the Collaborative Divorce process is a kinder, more respectful, creative and productive route in resolving often difficult and painful issues concerning couples and families when a relationship ends.

Sandra has been engaged in the Collaborative Divorce process for over fifteen years. She has participated as a facilitator at the CPLED for the past 11 years and is also a trained Mediator.

She has served on numerous boards and continues to give her time as a volunteer to JCFS and as an Arbitrator for the Law Society.

Sandra believes that every family has unique needs. She brings her training and years of experience in mediation and collaboration to the table to assist and guide families through separation and divorce with compassion, professionalism and legal knowledge.

Patricia Lane has been practicing family law for almost three decades. She is a partner with Taylor, McCaffrey LLP and is able to practice law in both Manitoba and Ontario. She taught family law at the University of Manitoba Law School for ten years and has made many presentations on family law matters to the Bar Admission students and to community groups. She has been chair of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and is currently the co-Chair of the non-profit organization The Non-Defensive Voice Inc. and one of the Vice-Presidents of The Non-Defensive Voice International, an Oregon corporation. She is active in both the Manitoba Bar Association and Canadian Bar Association and is a member of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. She was lead counsel on the Manitoba same sex marriage case. She received the Governor General’s Silver Jubilee Medal for working with youth on charitable projects. She has two daughters and four stepsons and is a firm believer in resolving disputes through respectful listening, clear communication and creative solutions.

Pamela has worked with families for over 35 years. She has practiced as a registered social worker, formerly a family lawyer, arbitrator and is a mediator. Self determination is her guiding principle and believes that parents know their children best. Parent Coaching is a proven approach to resolving issues in a separation. An agreement reached with the support of Parent Coaching provides the framework to build a future filled with hope, resilience, and opportunity.  Pamela is affiliated with the Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada (ADRIC), Collaborative Practice Manitoba (CPM), and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP). Please visit her website at www.academyfamilymediation.com for more information and resources.

In addition to private family law, Pamela has provided legal support to various branches of government including comprehensive reviews under The Fatality Inquiries Act, drafted provincial standards under the Child and Family Services Act and was Chair of the Intercountry Adoption Review Committee. She also assisted in developing policy direction with a view to legislative amendments in child protection and she was the Provincial Coordinator for Children with Complex Medical Needs at Children’s Hospital.  

She is on the mediation roster for the Automobile Injury Mediation (AIM) office providing mediation in personal injury claims. The claims are often complex in scope and nature, and the claimant generally appears with representation. Claimants who disagree with MPIC decisions relative to compensation for injuries sustained in automobile accidents can elect to mediate the appeal.  Mediation is now offered as an alternative to an appeal hearing before a tribunal. Pamela prepares a Memorandum of Agreement that sets out the details of the settlement at the end of a mediation.

She is committed to ethical practice,  ongoing learning and professional development and has been contract faculty at the University of Winnipeg in the Department of Developmental Studies. For several years Pamela has volunteered as a board member with Family Mediation Manitoba and is currently on the family mediation section of Alternate Dispute Resolution Institute of Manitoba

Education

• Bachelor of Arts – Brandon University (1989)
• Honours Bachelor of Social Work – Lakehead University (1990)
• Master of Social Work – University of Manitoba (2000)
• Bachelor of Laws – University of Manitoba (2008)
• Certificate in Divorce Mediation – NorthWestern University in Chicago (2012)
• National Certification in Arbitration (ADRIC) (2020)
• Master of Laws – Osgoode Hall in Dispute Resolution (2022)

Sean is a senior manager in the financial advisory services practice of BDO Canada LLP’s Winnipeg office.  In that capacity, Sean is primarily involved in the preparation of business valuations for various purposes including matrimonial matters. Sean also has experience in preparing and assisting clients with guideline income calculations, financial models, business plans, confidential information memorandums, litigation support, shareholder disputes, purchase price allocations, goodwill impairment testing, and the valuation of mineral rights. Sean has experience working in several industries including agricultural, construction, entertainment, health care, manufacturing and processing, mining, oil and gas, professional practices, retail, transportation, and utilities.

Sean started working in public practice in May 2011 and has been working in financial advisory services since September 2015. Sean obtained his Chartered Professional Accountant (“CPA”) designation in December 2015 and his Chartered Business Valuator (“CBV”) designation in November 2017.”

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A child of divorce, Rhoni has an intimate understanding of the stress and trauma families often experience during the separation process. Rhoni adopts a child-centered and trauma informed approach with the goal of helping clients resolve their legal issues without costly litigation and in a way that promotes healthy families post-separation.

Rhoni was called to the bar in 2018 and has been practicing family law exclusively since. Prior to joining Evans Family Law, Rhoni articled and practiced at a large Winnipeg firm, gaining experience in a wide variety of dispute resolution methods, including litigation, arbitration, collaborative law, and other cooperative approaches. Rhoni believes that the collaborative law process can promote a sense of empowerment and control, reduce stress, and improve communication, helping families restructure and move forward on a more positive path.

Phone: 204-808-1100 ext 113

Michael McCallum is a Registered Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with children and families. 6 years of those years in direct child welfare experience, specializing in keeping families together and facilitating reunification of the entire family in whatever form this may take. Michael looks forward to assisting you and your family as you navigate through the significant life changes the divorce process creates. Michael’s goal is to provide support in facilitating the restructuring of the family to minimize the negative impact and strengthen the new family structure to enable co-parenting success.

Michael will assist you through the collaboration process to provide the needed tools and communication skills to ensure a more effective co-parenting future.

Michael also has a private therapy practice. He is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and Registered with the Manitoba College of Social Workers.

Michael is married and is a parent to 8 children (5 remaining at home).

Michael can be reached at [email protected] or 204-890-5492.

Kathleen has practiced exclusively family law since her call to the bar in 2015.   Prior to joining Evans Pollock Family Law, Kathleen articled and practiced with Legal Aid Manitoba gaining litigation experience in a high-volume practice.

Kathleen actively seeks out professional learning opportunities to better serve her clients and the profession. She has completed the collaborative training program and believes that those skills are essential to assisting clients in finding meaningful resolutions to their family law matters.

Kathleen is co-chair of the Governance Committee of Collaborative Practice Manitoba. She is currently an elected member of the Executive of the Manitoba Bar Association Family Law Section.

Outside of the office, Kathleen enjoys running, yoga, spin classes, and attempting to make respectably sized coffee mugs in the pottery studio.

Daniel has been practicing family law since his call to the bar in 2009. While not limited to the collaborative process, Daniel’s preferred focus is collaboration and mediation. An honest, down-to-earth approach to separation and divorce, Daniel attempts to put common sense before the common law. His approach is primarily child focused with the view that a holistic approach to separation, which leaves a relationship intact for co-parenting, is the most effective and beneficial outcome. Ultimately, Daniel’s motivations lie not only in the short-term separation details, but making certain the Agreement reached will have a long-lasting outcome.

Daniel has been on the board of the Collaborative Practice Manitoba with a one-year stint on the executive committee. He has taken some mediation courses with a view to getting his certificate to practice mediation within the next two years.

Daniel has a blended family and understand the dynamics of separation, the sacrifices and hard work it takes to make these types of situations work.

If you are interested in determining whether Daniel might be able to assist you in your separation or divorce, please call or email him.

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Maria is a lawyer with experience in all areas of family law. She has more than nine years of broad family law practice, with a special interest in collaborative separation and divorce and providing advice to clients entering into new relationships.

Maria has been a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba since 2006 and is a member of the International Association of Collaborative Professionals. She is committed to assisting her clients through the difficult process of separation and divorce in a calm, practical and respectful manner. Maria believes this can be best achieved outside of the court room and by working collaboratively. As well, Maria can work with clients with the challenging task of negotiating agreements at the outset of their relationship or marriage and to get help them through this process with practicality and sensitivity.

In September 2014 Maria joined the family law boutique of Petersen King. Prior to that she was an associate at a mid-sized Winnipeg firm and was a member of its family law group. Maria is an active member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and belongs to the Family Law Section of the Manitoba Bar Association. Since 2006, Maria volunteers regularly with the Legal Clinic sponsored by the Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre.

Eleanor Moore has been an active and practicing mediator for over 30 years. Past work history includes child welfare for 18 years, a counselor with Family Conciliation for 9 years. Eleanor brings a wealth of experience to working with families with mediation and assessment experience in child protection contexts, parent/teen conflicts, divorce/separation, custody and access disputes and workplace conflict.
Eleanor is designated as a Mediator and a Court Appointed Evaluator for the Court of Queen’s Bench has facilitated the parent education program, For the Sake of the Children, in the public sector. Past professional organizations include her roles as Vice-President with Family Mediation Canada, Past President of Family Mediation Manitoba, and she is currently a member of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada (ADRIC) and it’s Manitoba chapter (ADRIM) and Collaborative Practice Manitoba.
She is currently in private practice as a Conflict Management Specialist/Mediator/Parent Coach and has been an Associate for Facilitated Solutions since 2012. As a parent coach, Eleanor provides support and assistance to parents working through the complex task of reorganizing family life to find a resolution that respects all family members and helps parents to come through this often stressful experience while striving to manage and maintain important family relationships.

Renée has been a lawyer in Manitoba since 1994. She is trained in Collaborative Family Law, Mediation, Arbitration and Non-Evaluative Child Interviewing.

Renée recognizes the very personal and often difficult nature of family matters and understands that every family has different needs to address their legal issues. For families with children, Renée’s focus will always be the best interests of your child or children.

Renée is a strong advocate for resolving family matters without the need for court, where it is appropriate.  Alternative dispute resolution processes (arbitration, mediation and collaborative family law) allow families to work together to make their own decisions, maintain privacy, and have more control over the process.  Most important the process is respectful and seeks to restructure the family to meet the new needs of the separated family.

Renée is experienced in all aspects of Family Law, including Cohabitation Agreements, Pre-nuptial Agreements, Adoption, Guardianship, divorce, separation, breakdown of common-law relationships, custody, child support, property and changes to the family structure over the years.

Renée is a member of the Manitoba Soccer Association (MSA) Discipline Committee and a Board Member with Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Manitoba.

She is active in sports and gym-life attending the gym, playing soccer and basketball for many years. She is also a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish.

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Originally from Ottawa, Rebecca has always had a genuine desire to support individuals and families during challenging times. After being called to the bar of Ontario in 2017, Rebecca gained diverse experience handling various family and criminal law matters in Toronto.

After relocating to Winnipeg in 2020, Rebecca joined Sternat Manaigre Law Corporation, where she focused her practice exclusively on family law.

Rebecca firmly believes in the power of collaborative practice. She understands that the traditional adversarial approach often exacerbates tensions and creates unnecessary conflict. Instead, Rebecca strives to help her clients find common ground and reach mutually beneficial solutions. By emphasizing open communication and cooperation, she helps clients navigate their family matters constructively. Rebecca listens attentively to her clients’ concerns and goals, crafting personalized strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for their unique circumstances.

Beyond her legal practice, Rebecca is actively involved in the community, volunteering with various organizations, and serving on the board of a non-profit youth care organization.

Richard has practiced family law exclusively since being called to the Bar of Manitoba in 2011. He chose this focus because of his desire to work in an area of law that is people-oriented. He also appreciates the opportunity family law provides to work with clients of various backgrounds and beliefs.

Richard uses collaborative and cooperative law practices extensively to reach legal agreements that are mutually beneficial to all parties involved.

Richard is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and co-chairs the Technology Committee.

James is an Associate with the Evans Pollock Family Law Corporation.

James is experienced in all areas of family law, including child protection issues. James recently fulfilled the requirements for admission to Collaborative Practice Manitoba and is eager to begin developing his collaborative law practice.

Kelly practices family law with Evans Pollock Family Law. As a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba, Kelly values collaboration and cooperation to assist families in reaching agreements without the need for stressful, lengthy and expensive litigation. She values a team approach, ensuring her clients have the right professionals for their needs.

Natalie has been an associate lawyer at Pitblado Law since May 2011. She practices mainly in the area of family law and is fluently bilingual.

Natalie graduated from the University of Winnipeg in 2007 and then graduated from l’Université de Moncton from their faculty of law in 2010. Natalie was admitted to the Manitoba Bar in 2011.

Natalie believes that the Collaborative approach is one that provides creative solutions for families that are separating without the pressures of litigation and court. This team based approach fosters an environment where the parties can feel supported throughout the process and truly focus on the best interests of the children.

In working with families through Collaborative Practice, we focus on parenting strengths and the needs of the child(ren). I help (1) navigate the emotional challenges of conflict and uncertainty; (2) bring attention to the needs and issues for more clarity and informed decision making; and (3) challenge negative patterns and approaches by building capacity in both conflict resolution skills and communication skills. Through this work we focus on collaboration, making space for intentional and thoughtful parenting plans with the goal of a positive co-parenting future.

Experience & Approach:
Nicole has a background in conflict resolution, restorative justice, and mediation. She has been practicing conflict coaching and mediation for nearly 15 years and holds a Chartered Mediator designation. She supports parents in communication, decision making and preparing parenting plans. With her background, her emphasis is on building capacity for conflict resolution and respectful communication throughout the process.

Her passion for family work is fueled by lived experience and past work with children and youth. Nicole has lived experience of being a child of divorce and having a parent who struggled with mental illness. She was also adopted at birth and met her biological parents in adulthood. Her conflict resolution and communication skills served her personal life in navigating differences and complicated dynamics, balancing boundaries and managing expectations to benefit more healthy familial relationships. This, along with other experiences – teaching piano, teaching children human rights education through play, and coordinating programming for at-risk youth – help inform her work with families.

Professional Memberships:

• • Collaborative Practice Manitoba (CPM)

• • Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Manitoba (ADRIM)

• • Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Canada (ADRIC)

• • Resolve Manitoba (Research and Education for Solutions to Violence and Abuse)

I am a relationship coach with Collaborative Practice Manitoba here to help navigate the complexities of restructuring families. I am committed to providing emotional support, fostering healthy communication and supporting you in developing quality co-parenting plan.

As a registered social worker I bring several years of experience working with individuals and families undergoing change. My experience with divorce, co-parenting and blended families provides additional insights.

Jessica has been practicing exclusively in the area of family law with Taylor McCaffrey LLP since June of 2012 and recently joined Evans Pollock Family Law.  Jessica received her collaborative certification in November, 2013 and is looking forward to building a practice in this area.  She has been a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba since 2013 and currently sits on the networking committee.  Jessica would be happy to discuss the best possible solutions for your family in working through the challenges of separation and divorce.

Kim Soul has been practicing exclusively in the area of family law since being called to the Manitoba Bar in 2009. Since that time she has been attracted to family law due to her desire to assist families through the emotionally and challenging issues they face when there is a breakdown of the family unit.

Kim guides her client’s through the difficult issues they may be facing during a breakdown of a relationship while being considerate to the emotional and psychological issues surrounding the breakdown.

Kim believes that the collaborative and negotiation processes to dispute resolution provides parties with a resolution to their matter in a manner that best suits their and their family’s current and future needs. Kim has received training in negotiation practices, mediation and collaborative law and is regularly involved in workshops and seminars which enhance these methods of dispute resolution. Kim enjoys learning about new ways to solve family law issues while ensuring that the clients are active in the outcome and informed about their choices.

Kim is a volunteer for the Legal Help Centre. She is also a member of the Education Committee for Collaborative Practice Manitoba.

In her spare time, Kim enjoys reading anything that challenges her views and thoughts, planning and organizing events, being outside on hot summer days and most importantly, spending time with her family both in Winnipeg and British Columbia.

Megan Spencer has practiced in the area of family law since becoming a lawyer. She has had the opportunity to represent clients in both collaborative settings as well as in litigation. With several years of experience and a deep understanding of the unique challenges families face, Megan is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to her clients.

Recognizing the value of alternative dispute resolutions for families, she became a certified Collaborative Family Law Practitioner and a trained Mediator. Megan believes in the power of the collaborative approach to resolve disputes in a constructive and respectful manner. She prioritizes fostering open communication and cooperation to reach mutually beneficial agreements that prioritize the well-being of all parties involved.

In addition to her legal practice, Megan actively participates in professional organizations, and volunteer opportunities.

Funmilayo Taiwo is a licensed Lawyer and Notary Public with over a decade of experience in legal practice. She is authorized to practice as a Barrister and Solicitor in Manitoba, Canada, and in Nigeria. Funmi is the principal counsel of F. Taiwo Law Office, where she provides strategic, practical, and client-focused legal services to individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and small to mid-sized businesses.

Funmi practices in the areas of Family Law, Real Estate, Corporate and Commercial Law, and Wills and Estates

Committed to professionalism and community service, Funmi volunteers as a Mediator with Mediation Services in Winnipeg, Manitoba, reflecting her belief in collaborative dispute resolution and access to justice. Through F. Taiwo Law Office, she is committed to providing trusted legal counsel with integrity, diligence, and a results-driven approach.

Outside of her legal practice, Funmi enjoys spending time with her husband and children.

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Debra is an Associate Lawyer at D’Arcy & Deacon LLP, having joined the firm in 2015.  She practices primarily in the area of family law, where she assists clients in achieving a practical resolution to their family law issues.  She has extensive experience in both litigation and negotiated settlements.  Debra completed the Collaborative Practice Manitoba training in 2018.

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Debra is originally from Rorketon, Manitoba.  She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Arts in 1991 and a Bachelor of Laws in 1995.  Debra received her Call to the Bar in 1996, and commenced practice in Brandon, Manitoba.

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From 1999 to 2007, Debra lived in Japan where she taught English and studied Japanese.  Debra returned to practicing law in Winnipeg in 2008, and has maintained a busy family law practice.

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Debra is a member on the Executive of the Family Law Subsection of Manitoba Bar Association.

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Hilary practices exclusively in the area of family law. She joined Mitousis Lemieux Law Corporation (then called Petersen King) after completing her articles with Legal Aid Manitoba in 2016.

Hilary views herself as a family law educator and advocate. She strives to help families re-structure in the healthiest, most empowering and cost-effective way possible. Her view is that the Collaborative law process provides more control and flexibility to separating couples and takes the stress and guesswork of litigation out of the equation. Hilary is committed to assisting families in creating sustainable agreements.

When not practicing law, Hilary volunteers with various organizations including the Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre. She previously taught Family Law at the University of Manitoba – Faculty of Law. Hilary stays active by playing basketball and chasing after her two young children.

Hi, I’m Sandi Taylor. For over 18 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with adults, teens, and children, helping families navigate life’s challenges and supporting each person in finding their strength and becoming their best self.
I know that separation and divorce can be overwhelming and emotional for everyone involved.

As a collaborative coach, I’m here to guide you through this process with care and understanding. Together, we focus on what matters most—your children, your family, and your own well-being. I’ll help you create a co-parenting plan that works for your unique family and teach strategies to communicate more effectively, reduce conflict, and support your children through these changes.

My goal is to help families move forward with clarity, confidence, and hope. I walk alongside you through the tough emotions, help you clarify your needs, and support you in building a future where your family can thrive. I look forward to working with you and helping you create a plan that leaves your family feeling heard, understood, and supported every step of the way.

Firm General: (204) 944-0596

Sarah is a senior associate at Mercier & Associates. She received her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba in 2007 and was admitted to the Manitoba Bar in 2008.

Sarah has practiced exclusively in the area of family law since 2010. She helps clients navigate the family restructuring process with a focus on teamwork, collaboration, resolving matters respectfully, and keeping conflict to a minimum.

Sarah is the president and a board member of the Community Legal Education Association, and she regularly volunteers at the Legal Help Centre.

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Chau’s life experience informs her practical and realistic approach to resolving legal issues while minimizing lengthy and expensive court processes.

Her own experience as a co-parent for more than a decade gives Chau a distinct perspective on the value of building a positive working relationship with one’s parenting partner. She is deeply committed to helping parents resolve conflict through collaborative practices that protect the integrity of the lifelong co-parenting relationship.

Chau is a member of Collaborative Practice Manitoba and co-chairs the Technology Committee.

Leah Unruh (she/her) is committed to working towards greater accessibility of the law to everyone. Leah is a community-minded, client focused lawyer who prioritizes providing her clients with a holistic approach, creating a legal plan that is tailored to each client’s individual needs. Her goal is to help clients find solutions to their legal problems in a straightforward, approachable, and collaborative way.

Leah is a partner at Wolseley Law and practices in the area of family law, as well as in the areas of wills and powers of attorney and real estate.

Leah is a bencher with the Law Society of Manitoba, and a board member for a local arts organization.

Heather is trained in collaborative law and as a mediator. She was called to the Bar in 2016 and practices exclusively in the area of family law. Heather has taught a negotiation course at Robson Hall at the University of Manitoba and coaches law students for the annual Canadian National Negotiation Competition. Heather was honoured to receive the “Emerging Leader Award” from Robson Hall recognizing her dedication and commitment to the legal profession in 2024.

Heather is passionate about alternative dispute resolution. As a parent herself, she understands how important it is to choose a dispute resolution process that puts the best interests of children first, such as collaborative law.

Tyler believes that the collaborative law process provides an opportunity for all parties to not only have a voice, but the chance to help formulate a resolution that accounts for the nuances of each individual family situation and the framework from which parties may move forward in a cooperative fashion.

Tyler has been practicing law for 20 years.  Tyler graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in 2001, and was called to the bar in Ontario in 2002 and in Manitoba in 2005.  Before attending law school, he received an Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto while majoring in psychology and philosophy.

He has also received training and worked as a mediator/facilitator through St.  Stephen’s Conflict Resolution Service in Toronto and has lectured on Alternative Dispute Resolution Techniques at the University of Winnipeg.

Tyler has been a volunteer with the Community Legal Education Association(CLEA) since 2010 and has conducted dozens of lectures to community groups across all of Winnipeg on behalf of CLEA.

I am a clinical social worker with a Master Degree who has worked for 27 years exclusively with children and families across a variety of systems advocating for the many ways families can be structured and provide the care their children need to thrive and grow. I am a mentor to graduate students and contract lecturer with The University of Winnipeg, Faculty of Developmental Studies. I am a member of my professional body Manitoba College Social Workers (MCSW) as well CPM.

Currently in private practice, I provide Parent Coaching, Parenting  Capacity Assessments, Guardianship Applications. I hold an appointment to the Attorney General’s Office as an Independent Family Evaluator under section 41, Part IX of the Queen’s Bench Act. In this role I provide private clinical assessments for the Family Courts in the area of Custody and Family Conciliation to the court. I have been recognized as an expert witness and provide opinions to the family courts which support plans for children and families.

I am dedicated  to utilizing collaboration and mediation in smoothing the transition in families who are redefining their family structure. This includes the trials and difficulties that are common in separation, divorce and co-parenting. Supporting both parents to communicate productively and respectfully and problem solving together to make the best decisions for their family is possible and an excellent option for everyone involved.