Jessica is an experienced advocate and a pragmatic negotiator. First Nations can look to Jessica for advice in respect of proposed developments/projects, or for assistance navigating environmental complaints, investigations, prosecutions and related enforcement proceedings.
In addition to her regulatory expertise, Jessica has extensive experience handling a variety of commercial litigation matters, ranging from complex, multi-million dollar ICC and ad hoc arbitrations, to more run-of-the mill contractual, leasing and construction-related disputes. She has appeared before the BC Supreme Court, all levels of Court in Alberta, and at various environmental and administrative tribunals.
Jessica’s experience acting as counsel for various mining, utility and government clients has armed her with unique insight and perspective into how these parties typically assess, prioritize and respond to litigation and regulatory intervention. She leverages this experience and insight to achieve the best possible outcomes for our First Nations clients.
Jessica obtained her undergraduate degree, with distinction, from the University of Victoria (2006), and her Bachelor of Laws at the University of Alberta (2011). During her studies she served as a Criminal Caseworker (2009-10) and later served as Executive Coordinator (2010-2011) and Chairperson of the Board (2013-17) for the largest student-run legal clinic in North America.
Jessica is an active member of the BC and Alberta Law Societies. She is an active member of the CBA, and has served on the executive for Alberta North’s Alternative Dispute Resolution subsection. She volunteers regularly with Pro Bono Law Alberta, and has been a coordinator for the Civil Claims Duty Counsel Project since its inception in 2015. She presents regularly at Environmental Services of Alberta Association events, and has written several articles providing practical guidance on environmental release reporting, arbitrating construction contracts and the duty of honest performance.
Jessica is a committed to amplifying the voices of those calling for thoughtful, sustainable solutions to today’s most pressing issues like climate change and reconciliation.