Celebrating the inspirational women of Legal Aid Alberta
March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration recognizing women’s rights, achievements, and the advancement of equity and inclusion in our communities. This year’s theme, “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” presents an opportunity to push for gender equality in our community and highlight the amazing contributions of women who inspire us to take action.
At Legal Aid Alberta, we celebrate the incredible leadership and inspiration of the women at LAA who are breaking barriers and making a difference in the lives of Albertans. These women are leaders in their field, leaving a lasting impact on the legal profession and beyond—whether in court representing a client, working behind the scenes in operations, or on the frontlines at our Contact Centre. They inspire us to continue our mission of delivering fairness in the justice system.
Below are a few inspiring stories showcasing their dedication and how they empower others through their knowledge and expertise:
A lifelong commitment to access to justice
Advocacy knows no expiration date. The women of LAA, driven by a passion for the law and helping people, share their decades of service. Four long-serving employees, Galina Flerkervitch, Laura Chung, Aileen Lovely, and Judy Demontigny share their journey and what fuels their loyalty to the access to justice mission. Read More
LAA’s critical work over the past 50 years owes its success to the dedication and commitment of lawyers and administrative professionals who share a common mission: delivering access to justice. Read More
Sharing knowledge in the legal community
Continuing education is a vital part of professional growth for lawyers. By actively participating in learning about legal aid services and the law, lawyers showcase their commitment to better serve their clients and build their knowledge. LAA lawyers, with years of experience and skills, facilitate these training opportunities to ensure quality service. Read More
Protecting Alberta families
LAA’s family lawyers are on the frontlines assisting Albertans experiencing family violence. Between 2022-23, LAA’s Emergency Protection Order Program team applied for more than 2,100 protection orders. The program provides claimants with information on the court system, options, and community resources.
In a public webinar, Legal Aid Alberta staff lawyers Jessica Chapman and Julie McGraw shared information on the EPO program and how LAA can help protect oneself or a loved one from family violence. Watch
Legal Aid Alberta staff lawyers Jessica Chapman and Ruth Williams joined Global News Morning Edmonton to shed light on family violence, overlaps for those in immigration matters, and available supports. Read More
Bridging the gap in high-conflict parenting situations
Divorce and separation can be challenging for everyone involved, especially children in the middle of these conflicts. LAA’s family lawyers provide advice on co-parenting and navigating high-conflict divorces to ensure kids have a say in the process.
LAA’s Sunaina Kakkar joined Global News’ Ask a Lawyer segment to discuss the challenges co-parents face during the summer and how overseas travel works when parents are in conflict. Read More
In highly charged situations where litigation has been ongoing and communication has broken down, lawyers are appointed to represent the child’s wishes and desires to the court. LAA staff lawyer Elizabeth Turner appeared on Global News’ Ask a Lawyer segment to speak about a uniquely qualified team of lawyers trained in child representation. Read More
On the frontlines with the Contact Centre
When clients call into the Contact Centre, there’s a sense of stress and urgency to resolve their matters quickly. Contact Centre Intake Officer Susan Roth takes an empathetic approach and communication style, allowing callers to articulate their needs clearly and efficiently. Read More
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