Call: 2013
I have been a criminal defence lawyer with Pringle Law for ten years. I act for both adults and youth charged with serious criminal offences, having conducted over 75 trials and appeals, as well as hundreds of bail and sentencing hearings. I have also acted as counsel in more than 30 administrative tribunal and professional disciplinary hearings, including for members of the Edmonton Police Association. I believe my litigation and administrative law experience would provide a helpful perspective as a panelist for Law Society hearings.
For seven years, I’ve taught at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Law. Teaching helps me keep in touch with the needs of young lawyers. It also offered me experience in adapting the delivery of my courses, shifting from pre- to post-Covid times. Being part of a now paperless firm, I’ve gained further insight on transitioning to effective remote workplaces. Our profession faces an unprecedented juncture, with a massive transformation in the delivery of legal services, due to new remote practices. We have a unique opportunity to provide a balanced approach and get it right. I am strongly committed to enhancing public confidence in the legitimacy of a self-regulated profession by listening to members and key stakeholders on issues such as lawyer independence, and how to improve remote practices, without sacrificing quality of service for efficiency.
As a mom of three kids under the age of ten, most of my early career decisions coincided with starting a family. Women and junior lawyers are leaving the profession, especially in the first five years, at an alarming rate. These numbers are even higher in private practice. It is a profound loss of talent. I am encouraged to see the Law Society’s commitment and recent changes to better accommodate lawyers going on leave. I would love a seat at the table to continue advancing the LSA’s strategic plan to remove barriers and increase retention for women and junior lawyers.
In addition to a well-established private practice, I regularly represent and advocate for individuals who are underprivileged, have significant mental health issues, and struggle with socio-economic disadvantage. As part of my contribution to public service, I am a long-standing member of Legal Aid Alberta and the Criminal Trial Lawyers’ Association. Most of my committee work has focused on Indigenous restorative justice. With this background, I hope to provide valuable input in delivering the LSA’s mandate to regulate in the public interest by “increasing diversity and inclusion” while also “removing barriers to access” of legal services.
Outside the office, I have been President of the Lawyers & Judges Curling League since 2012. I was recently appointed Fun Lunch Coordinator at my daughter’s school to create a strategic plan for all students to access the monthly hot lunches, regardless of financial circumstances. I am an avid runner and love camping with family and friends.