Pushing family law forward

Leisha Murphy^**

After being a family lawyer for over 13 years, coupled with my own personal experience with divorce, I have come to understand the difficult transition that comes with the end of a relationship. This experience has put me in the unique position of being able to provide clients with a clear picture of what is to come and how to plan for it. As well as provide clients with guidance and education on how to deal with the day-to-day realities of a separation.

After routinely going to court in my first decade as a lawyer, I came to see how destructive that process can be for families, both financially and emotionally. That is the reason my practice is focused on reaching out-of-court settlements, either through collaborative divorce or mediation/negotiation. These processes reduce legal fees, stress and anxiety and allows parents to maintain a workable relationship going forward.

From personal and professional experience, I realized that family law clients often need more than just legal support. It was this understanding that inspired me, together with business partner Simon Kent, to build a law firm where clients can access a community of support and feel empowered to move through the transition of separation/divorce to a better place. This is also why we offer each Connect client a complementary 1.5 hour counselling/coaching session with mental health professionals that specialize in separation and divorce.

While I advise clients on all areas of family law (including child support, spousal support and parenting), I specialize in creating workable and creative solutions for the division of businesses and trusts (including the tax implications of those divisions). This expertise carries over to my practice as a certified family law mediator. I also prepare marriage and cohabitation agreements dealing with business and property interests, family trusts and anticipated inheritances. As a result of seeing first-hand the difficulties faced by couples in a separation, I prepare marriage and cohabitation agreements with an eye to eliminating or decreasing acrimony should a separation occur in the future.

Given I am now at an age where life is full of stressors, I have taken up meditation (and try to do it daily) as well as recently adopted a dog, which I have read is supposed to bring calm and love. The jury is out on whether either endeavor is working, but all we can do is try.

Simon Kent

I am an employment lawyer that started Kent Employment Law in 2002 and I don’t practice family law. So what’s the connection with Connect Family Law?  Well, Connect Family Law was born at a Canadians baseball game in the summer of 2015. It was there that I talked with Leisha Murphy about our shared interest in creating a family law firm where the lawyers made it their mission to “do no harm” in service to their family law clients.

Both Leisha and I had seen first-hand the damage to families that family law litigation could inflict. I had gone through a decade long high-conflict divorce that had caused harm to all involved. It was emotionally and mentally exhausting as well as financially damaging – and those were the effects on a person (me) who was a lawyer and who already understood the court process. Leisha had gone through divorce as a child and then witnessed, through her work as a family lawyer, the damage that high-conflict divorce litigation brought to families unfortunate enough to have gone through that process.

Together we endeavoured to build a family law firm where all lawyers and staff share the ethos of “do no harm”. A firm that is focused on supporting families as they restructure, as they find their way through what may amount to the most difficult time in their lives. We are resolution focused. We don’t brag about winning in court – we talk about changing relationships; about helping clients see the big picture; about moving to closure and the promise of tomorrow.

My roll at Connect is on the business side of the operation. I help with the day to day running of the firm at our multiple locations.

I am the father of three amazing daughters. I enjoy skiing (both cross country and downhill), hiking, and I recently got back into playing squash.

Alex Boland^**

Every life contains great transitions. I hope to help my clients through their separation with compassion, integrity, intelligence and dignity. I try and see each file on its own merits, and this means that I want to work with my clients to develop an approach that moves them forward towards their particular goals. Practically speaking, I prefer to take a collaborative approach to files where possible; I like to apply the specialized knowledge and competencies I’ve developed over my practice to challenging problems; and I like to exercise compassion in all that I do.

I have practiced family primarily, and nearly exclusively, in my ten+ years of practice. I write and present frequently on family law topics and am a contributing author to the leading BC family law texts (CLEBC’s Family Law Sourcebook and Annotated Practice). I am active in the collaborative divorce community and the Canadian Bar Association.

I am an aspiring outdoors person. I find peace and restoration exploring the terrain around us, generally on foot and preferably for as long as possible. I moved to the Okanagan in 2018, and one of my great pleasures has been to build a connection to the land and people here.

I love to read, and am usually wrestling through a hodgepodge of novels, poetry, and non-fiction.

Mahshid Hoseini^**

Family law practice is not for the faint of heart. Throughout my years in this field, I’ve come to recognize that, even in seemingly amicable situations, the journey remains emotionally, psychologically, and financially challenging for many families. With this in mind, I am dedicated to shaping a practice that serves as a source of solace during tough times, rather than adding fuel to the fire.

My specialization spans a broad spectrum of family issues, including guardianship, parenting, child support, spousal support, and the equitable division of property and debt. I bring expertise to the preparation of complex cohabitation and marriage agreements, as well as separation agreements. As a practitioner of Collaborative Law and mediation, I focus on facilitating empowering resolutions and fostering a cooperative environment that promotes effective communication and understanding among parties.

For me, the journey of resolving family matters is as crucial as the destination. I recognize that the experience is as important as the ultimate outcome. With a background in litigation, I advocate for a more beneficial and healthier approach during separations, redirecting resources from costly court proceedings towards more impactful and constructive use of resources. Drawing on my experience assisting a former British Columbia Supreme Court Justice in mediations, I provide effective and creative solutions for fair and amicable resolutions.

Clients describe me as professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and compassionate, acknowledging my reasonable and realistic approach. I prioritize keeping clients well-informed about the legal process and associated costs.

After fulfilling roles as Secretary and Registration Officer for the Canadian Bar Association, my dedication to community development persists through my involvement in the steering committee of Emerging Family Law Lawyers (ELF). This organization is dedicated to fostering a supportive community for fellow lawyers and articling students, focusing on the growth and development of the next generation of legal professionals.

Outside the legal domain, I like to immerse myself in the beauty of British Columbia through hiking and camping. I enjoy cooking and am on a perpetual quest to discover the perfect cup of coffee. More recently, I’ve ventured into the realm of mixology, aiming to craft the ultimate cocktail.

Geeta Gill

I am a collaborative family law lawyer, mediator and parenting coordinator.  I was drawn to family law because of its interaction among people, family and relationships, and having an undergraduate degree in psychology.  With more than 18 years of legal experience, I have dealt with all aspects of family law, whether it be through the separation and divorce process or in the preparation of cohabitation and marriage agreements.

I am committed to bringing not only experience and skill to my practice, but also genuine compassion for every client and their family.  Each client has unique circumstances and I work with them to provide practical solutions to meet their individual needs.  In my practice, I prefer to take a non-adversarial approach through negotiations, mediation and the Collaborative divorce process to minimize conflict, cost and stress for my clients.

I have been interested in law since I was a child, and to this day enjoy being involved in and contributing to the legal community.  I am a member of the Canadian Bar Association – Family Law Subsection, having previously served on the executive and as co-chair of the section for two years. I am also a member of the B.C. Parenting Coordinators Roster Society and previously sat on its board of directors for a two-year term. In addition, I am a previous author of updates for the Continuing Legal Education Society of B.C.’s Family Law Practice Manual and have been a member of the Practice Manual’s editorial board.  I have enjoyed speaking at meetings of the Canadian Bar Association and presenting at CLE courses.

Outside of my family law practice I love travelling and exploring new places and people, running and yoga, spending time with family and friends and, after a hard day, unwinding with a glass of wine and a good book.

Milena Scekic

Since being called to the British Columbia Bar in 2020, I have supported clients in resolving a wide array of family law disputes both within and outside of the court system. I have attended trial in the Supreme Court of British Columbia and observed first-hand the mental and financial toll that prolonged litigation can have on a family. My approach is centred on amicable, out-of-court settlements, wherever possible. In my experience, this is usually a much more affordable and less strenuous process than the traditional court route, with healthier consequences for the whole family, long-term.

My primary role at Connect Family Law is assisting our team of lawyers with complex research, litigation support and preparing separation and cohabitation/marriage agreements.

Outside of the law, I enjoy the stillness and quiet of a great (usually tragic) novel, a lush forest, and my yoga practice.

Sarah Northwood

I aim to provide my clients with a safe and empathetic environment where they can feel supported and heard, while remaining honest, open and transparent about the legal process – even if that means telling them something they don’t want to hear.

After articling at a mid-sized law firm working predominantly on in family litigation, I came to recognize the true harm that the court system can cause to families and, in particular, to children. Being a true advocate for my clients often means keeping them out of court by seeking creative paths towards settlement.

I attended Simon Fraser University, where I graduated with distinction in 2014 with a dual major Bachelor of Arts-Environment in Geography and Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies. I completed my law degree at the University of Victoria in 2020.

During my time at the University of Victoria, I obtained practical experience through the University’s Co-Op Program, and through a semester with the Law Centre Clinical Program. As a volunteer with Pro-Bono Students Canada, I helped to establish a Trans ID Clinic and assisted people in navigating the complex and stressful process of obtaining updated government identification. I also volunteered with the Environmental Law Centre, and held an executive role with Outlaws, a student-led LGBT advocacy group on campus.

When I’m not at work, you can find me sipping coffee with my wife, Elizabeth, our mischievous rescue dog, Fresca, and our geriatric feline, Percy.

I spend much of my free time gaming, sharing food with people I love, and, when I can, travelling. I enjoy most things science fiction and find peace in nature.

Thomas Eaves

Separation is a challenging time for all involved. Together with the team at Connect Family Law, I am here to help you through the inevitable ups and downs of divorce.

My values of integrity, organization and focus assist in keeping you on the most efficient path forward. My goal is to help you navigate through this tough time as smoothly as possible. One of my strengths is identifying issues that are important to you to ensure the final outcome works best for you and your family.
While I have never shied away from the courtroom, I understand prolonged conflict causes stress and can have a negative emotional and financial impact on my clients; and as a result, should be used as a last resort. For that reason, I do everything that I can to help my clients reach out-of-court settlements, be it through negotiation or mediation.

I handle a wide range of family law issues, including parenting issues, child support, property division, and spousal support. I possess a solid commercial litigation background which means I can assist with complex financial matters. My clients have included national banks, S&P TSX 60 listed corporations, professionals and small and medium sized businesses. I am a proud graduate of the Queen’s University Faculty of Law in Ontario and was called to the bar in British Columbia and Alberta in 2012.

I also have wide-ranging experience in areas where family and civil matters intersect. If you are not a party to a family proceeding but would like to assert an interest in family property or make a claim as a creditor, I am well suited to help you. Similarly, I can assist where shareholder disputes are at issue.
I believe in being there for my clients. I know these situations are difficult, so I am ready to listen and offer support.

I love Kelowna and everything that it has to offer. I am a director of the Downtown Kelowna Association where I advocate for a fun, connected, and vibrant city. I spend my free time enjoying the community with my family, cycling throughout the region, and yelling at my TV early in the mornings each weekend while watching the Liverpool Football Club.

N. Noemi Argueta

I define my practice by my passion for helping others and my desire to connect people with the legal services they need and deserve. For me, family law is about assisting individuals navigate their matter in the most efficient and non-litigious manner possible, focusing on out-of-court options where appropriate. I find this is often the most cost-efficient and least emotionally taxing avenue for people, circumstances permitting. With this in my mind, I’m on course to complete my mediation training by the Spring of 2024.

I provide assistance on various family law issues and take a particular interest in issues regarding guardianship, adoption, parenting and Hague applications. I also focus on reaching amicable settlements.

I completed my law degree at the University of British Columbia in 2017 with a focus on social justice. During my time at UBC, I completed an externship through Rise Women’s Legal Centre, a community legal centre which provides legal services to individuals who self-identify as women.  I also provided translation service for LSLAP, a non-profit legal advice program run by students.

After graduating I articled at a mid-sized firm, working on a wide range of civil matters but ultimately decided to pursue a career in Family Law with a forward thinking firm.

Before becoming a lawyer, I worked as a social worker and lived abroad. I am bilingual in both English and Spanish. I used to speak fluent German and conversational Romanian but as they say, if you don’t use it, you lose it.

Outside of work, I love travelling (who doesn’t?), languages and immersing myself in new cultures. In total, I’ve been to 28 countries and lived in 4 different countries. I also enjoy trying my hand at new home renovations projects. To me, it’s like a form of art but instead of starting with a blank canvass you have to be able be able to see through the mess and create something beautiful with what you have.

Maninder Sandhu

Navigating the complexity of family transitions is not always an easy task, especially when deciphering its interaction with the legal realm. Whether helping smooth the path as you end a relationship or crystalize your future intentions in a marriage or co-habitation agreement, I strive to remain a steadying presence by helping you understand your legal obligations while advocating for your rights. Given my own deep commitment to family, relationships and connections, I am honoured to support individuals as they enter new relationships or move through a time of turmoil into a new life chapter.

I completed undergraduate studies at Simon Fraser University, following which I pursued formal law training first at the University of Birmingham and then at the University of British Columbia. Both professionally and personally, I approach new experiences with optimism and an open-mind.

When not at work, I enjoy blogging through shemodish.com and spending quality time with my loved ones, including my husband and an adorable toddler.

Working primarily out of the Abbotsford and Surrey office, I advise my clients in English, Punjabi, and Hindi.

Alison McMeans^**

I know that separation and divorce can be chaotic. It is my goal to see you walk out of my office for the last time with a plan for your family that you designed. With a focus on realistic solutions and a thoughtful approach to problems, my seasoned advice helps guide clients into a future that is much better than the one they are leaving behind.

You know your own family best, which is why I begin by aiming for an out-of-court resolution for my clients through negotiation, mediation, or a collaborative law process. This allows parents to craft their own detailed plans for the rules their family will follow, and lets parties reach property settlements that reflect how the finances worked in their unique partnership.

A considered approach to the negotiation process means that clients are often pleasantly surprised when they are able to reach agreement with their formerly stubborn, unrealistic, and inflexible spouse.

I advise my clients on all areas of family law, such as property division, spousal support, child support, guardianship, and parenting time. Complications regarding businesses, investments, properties, or inheritances often require special attention to the parties’ unique financial situation. When the parties are able to reach a resolution, I prepare detailed separation and cohabitation agreements drafted to protect a client’s interests. I am also a certified Collaborative Law practitioner.

In 2005, I graduated from the Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia. I was a journalist based in the United Arab Emirates for a number of years before returning to Canada and working at a mid-sized law firm on Vancouver Island. I have been a member of the Law Society of British Columbia since 2016. I have substantial experience in family law, appearing as counsel in cases before the Provincial and the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

I enjoy travelling and reading. In my free time, I can often be found cooking with my daughter or taking long walks with my dog.

Devon Lal

I began my legal career as a legal assistant in 2019 and was called to the bar in British Columbia in 2021. I have experience in both Provincial Court and in the British Columbia Supreme Court.

While I strive to maintain a peaceful approach, I am comfortable in the Court room. I enjoy a challenge and work hard at continuing to build my skills in all areas of family law so I can help my clients achieve the best results. Prior to attending law school I completed my undergraduate studies in psychology.  In my practice I utilize this background to make myself adaptable to clients’ needs, personalities and comfort level.

I believe clients will find that I am a very clear communicator. I bring a strong empathetic foundation to my approach and make a concentrated effort to ensure clients do not feel like passengers while working through their file. Ultimately, there are so many inevitable difficulties that arise following the breakdown of a family unit. Clients will find that my practice style recognizes the toll these difficulties take on them. I do everything I can to make sure my clients are prepared for the challenges ahead and make sure they are equipped for the journey.

In my free time I enjoy reading books about world history and discovering music of all genres. Where I’m happiest is spending time with my family, friends and my loving dog Aaliyah. I am an avid sports fan and have special place in my heart for my favourite sports team, the Liverpool Football Club. I live my life and run my practice by the club motto, “You Never Walk Alone”.

Julia Chalkley

More often than not, the idea of retaining a lawyer is coupled with stress and apprehension. Whether due to the conflict in your life or unfamiliarity with the law, I aim to change those feelings and perceptions through my practice by being approachable and personable, while not shying away from direct advice and difficult conversations. I take great pride in ensuring my client’s feel supported and heard throughout trying circumstances. I seek to empower clients to take charge in the legal process by distilling what can be complex jargon and overwhelming procedures.

Prior to joining Connect, I practiced family law at a boutique litigation firm. I have substantial courtroom experience and have assisted clients through both Provincial and Supreme Court trials. While I encourage out of court resolution, my time at a litigation firm ensures that when court action is required, I have the ability to skillfully represent my client’s best interests.

I graduated from the University of Toronto with a Psychology Specialist Degree and obtained my law degree from the University of Ottawa, both with distinction. Throughout my studies I volunteered with the Women’s Legal Mentorship Program, the Environmental Law Clinic, and the ARCH Disability Law Clinic.

Growing up I was fortunate enough to be introduced to a love of travelling. I did exchange programs during my studies and attended universities around the world, such as Oxford. This same passion took me to Kenya to volunteer at an orphanage in Nairobi and, on a whim, spend a summer in the Okanagan.

Originally born and raised in Ontario, that summer in the Okanagan struck such a chord with me that I packed up my life in Toronto and made the move across Canada. I take every opportunity I can to enjoy the beauty and lifestyle Kelowna has to offer, whether through hiking, camping, road biking or Nordic skiing.

Recently the past President of the Kelowna Bar Association, I look forward to the next endeavour to give back to a community I love to call home.

Larissa Sleva

I take pride in practicing with compassion and empathy to assist clients through what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives punctuated by emotional turmoil. When children are involved, I encourage the parties to always keep the best interests of the children first. Through collaborative law and mediation training I have learned the skills necessary to focus on helping clients achieve a resolution that is less time consuming and expensive than litigation. Where alternatives to litigation are not appropriate, I effectively advocate for my clients through the court process, helping them make their voices heard.

I am able to assist you with separation and divorce; property and debt division; child and spousal support; and guardianship and parenting time. I also draft cohabitation, marriage and separation agreements protecting your rights and entitlements.

My sense of adventure and love for travel is demonstrated by my background and education. Born in Canada and raised in the United States, I studied at The Ohio State University and Arizona State University prior to completing my degree in Criminology with Honours at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. In 2014, I moved to Australia and graduated with a Juris Doctor from Bond University Law School in 2016 and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice in 2017. I was admitted as a lawyer to the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2017 and as a registered practitioner in the High Court of Australia in 2018. While in Australia, I practiced both family and criminal law, often dealing with family violence matters as a result of the intertwined area between the two. Eventually I returned to Canada to make my home where I was called to the bar in British Columbia in 2022. Prior to joining Connect Family Law, I articled and practiced at a boutique law firm where I focused primarily on family law.

I am actively involved in the mentoring program in the Women Lawyers Forum, a subsection of the Canadian Bar Association that bolsters women in the legal profession. I also volunteer with Amici Curiae, a free trauma-informed service designed to promote access to justice. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants, yoga, wine tasting, travel and spending time with my family and friends. I adore animals, especially my rescue cat Roo who I brought home with me from Australia. I am also an avid Formula 1 Racing and College Football fan.

Daniel MacNeill

My guiding principles as a family lawyer are compassion and pragmatism. I understand the unique, and often emotionally fraught, challenges that come with any separation and offer calm and practical guidance through a difficult time. I see separation as a transition, not a “new normal”, and work with my clients to reach a positive resolution so they can move forward with their lives.

As a strong believer in access to justice, I first discovered my passion for family law while spending a law school semester at Rise Women’s Legal Centre, providing free family law representation and advice to low-income women. I went on to article with Rise and I continue to volunteer with them regularly.

Since becoming a lawyer, I have exclusively practiced family law. I have represented a broad spectrum of clients, from Legal Aid clients while operating my own firm, Thakur MacNeill LLP, to high net-worth clients while working at a mid-size firm in Downtown Vancouver. My varied experience has equipped me with the knowledge and flexibility to tailor effective solutions to each of my client’s unique needs.

Having appeared frequently in the Supreme Court of British Columbia, I have learned the value of a settlement-oriented approach to family law. I have witnessed the emotional toll that litigation takes on clients and wherever possible I deescalate conflict and formulate creative solutions to dispute through negotiation and mediation. Where out-of-court resolution is unavailable, I am prepared to proceed to court and advocate for my clients. I approach every court application with diligence, professionalism, and integrity.

Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my dogs, Yeori and Hong-Shi; nerding out about Dungeons & Dragons; and getting together with my friends.

Mark Chiu^**

I have practiced law in British Columbia since 2014. I use my skills as a negotiator and trial lawyer to solve family law problems. I am also a certified Family Law Mediator.

I became a lawyer after learning during my undergraduate studies in psychology that the most stressful life events are the death of a spouse, divorce, marital separation, and imprisonment. I find purpose and meaning in assisting others through their most difficult and stressful times.

In addition to my involvement in family law cases, I have represented the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, and have acted as criminal defence counsel, including in the jury system.

I have experience in family law cases that involve the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program and the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

I find the practice of law rewarding. I enjoy putting a “deal” together without the need for judicial intervention. I also enjoy using the formal trial process.

My current family law practice includes:

• division of family property, including assets held by corporations or those held in a trust;
• parenting disputes, including those involving parental alienation or estrangement;
• cases which also intersect the criminal justice system;
• relocation and mobility cases;
• support issues, including imputation or determination of the parties’ income;
• conducting and participating in settlement meetings and mediations; and
• conducting any necessary appeals.

I am an active volunteer for Access Pro Bono. I have also acted as Family Law Duty Counsel for Legal Aid BC.

As it relates to my practice style, my goal is to make decisions like an entrepreneur, prepare and compete like an athlete, and have the soul and integrity of a humanitarian.

During the summer, I am often cycling, paddle boarding, and walking. During the winter, I am often snowboarding. Year-round, my commitment to a yoga practice is deeply rewarding.

I also enjoy indulging in music, spoken audio, and film. I enjoy watching combat sports, basketball, and the Olympics. I prefer to read non-fiction.

I value traditional family values, respecting elders, and caring for the young.

Shanna Kean

Upon graduating law school, I joined Connect as an articling student and worked under the mentorship of Alex Boland. I was then called to the Bar and have remained working at Connect as a lawyer.

While I appreciate the benefits of resolving issues outside of Court, I recognize that some issues require litigation. Therefore, my practice includes both settlement-focused discussions and litigation. In other words, I practice both in Court and outside of Court.

Guiding my clients through settlement includes representing them through mediation, negotiating with the other side and drafting Separation Agreements. Representing my clients in Court includes drafting pleadings, preparing for applications and trial, and appearing before a judge. I frequently appear in both the Provincial Court and Supreme Court of British Columbia.

I practice solely within the family law realm. Within that realm, I help clients navigate complex property division, parenting, child support and spousal support issues.

I understand that family law issues often involve significant stress for clients. Accordingly, I approach my practice in a calm, careful and compassionate manner. While I will always advocate for my clients to the very best of my ability, it is important to me that I also provide clients with my frank and honest opinion so that they have the foundation to make informed decisions.

When I’m not working, you can find me spending time outdoors with my two rescue dogs, Benji and George. My favourite outdoor activity is camping in the backcountry of British Columbia during which I spend numerous days backpacking.

London Battye

I was raised in the Okanagan, where I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at the University of British Columbia Okanagan in 2020 with a major in psychology and a minor in computer science. I then went on to complete my law degree at Thompson Rivers University in 2023.

During my time at TRU, I was involved in many extracurricular activities from collegiate athletics to faculty of law clubs and volunteering. I volunteered with Pro bono Students Canada where I was placed with Elizabeth Fry to help create a family law resource binder for community members navigating the family law system.

I have been interested in law since I was a child. I was drawn to family law due to my own experience with a disruptive family separation and believe that my compassionate nature will  assist families during their time of transition.

I joined Connect because of its client-centered, collaborative approach to family law, which aligns with my own calm and compassionate approach to assisting clients.

Outside of work I enjoy crafting, designing, and event planning – from invitations, posters, and even website designing. I spend most of my off time with friends, family, and my dog.

Doris Nadan

After graduating from the LAA Program in early 2007, I worked in a boutique family law firm for nine years, before joining Connect Family Law in 2016. While I was not actively looking for a new job, I stumbled upon Connect’s job posting while helping my cousin. I was immediately drawn to Connect’s resolution focused and tailored approach to family law. The rest, as they say, is history!

Over the years, I have developed knowledge and expertise in all facets of running a successful law practice, from office management and administration to court filings and procedures. As the firm’s Operations Manager and Senior Legal Assistant, I am often the “go to” person for lawyers and support staff alike. My responsibilities are wide ranging and include day-to-day operations to ensure that our firm runs smoothly, implementing and overseeing firm procedures & policies, preparing legal documents, corresponding with clients and other lawyers, scheduling court hearings, ongoing file and case management, onboarding team members, and training and overseeing an amazing team of support staff.

Contacting a family law lawyer for the first time can often be a stressful experience; as such, I like to create a welcoming space for Connect’s clients through a warm, thoughtful and personable approach.

Outside of work, I am an avid reader and enjoy experimenting new recipes – mostly desserts due to an extreme case of sweet tooth! I also enjoy travelling with my husband whenever possible and spending time with my family.

Christina Manhas

Being people-oriented, friendly and outgoing, I was excited to join Connect Family Law and bring my seven years of experience as a legal assistant to the area of family law. Not only am I a fast learner, I am also an expert multi-tasker, having worked for eight years as a guest services associate with Carnival Cruises, where I had to deal with everything from shore excursions to reservations, billings, lost items, immigration issues and more. Helping often thousands of passengers in foreign ports was perfect for a problem-solver like myself, a skill that continues to come in very handy at Connect.

Now that I’m on dry land in my hometown of Vancouver, I like to spend my free time reading, cooking, baking, doing pilates and taking long walks with my dog, Ellie.

Tia Carte

My priority has always been to ensure clients have a great experience and my decade of work in the hospitality and retail industries has made me well-equipped to be the Client Services Coordinator at Connect Family Law.

I know that new clients come to Connect during a very sensitive time. I look forward to helping those clients, treating them with care and listening to them before referring them to one of Connect’s outstanding lawyers. Years of experience in remembering the smallest detail about a client can really help make them feel more comfortable and leave them with a warmer, more welcoming experience.

When not at work, I am either travelling to someone’s house for a glam make-up session or at a dog park with my two dogs Peanut Butter or Henry. Once a month, my husband and I enjoy trying a new restaurant in the Vancouver area.

Arin Middar

I was always interested in the legal field and research. After graduating with a degree in Criminology in 2017, I worked as a policy researcher. I decided to switch to work that was more encompassing and client-focused, which led me to completing the legal administrative assistant program in 2020.

I quickly grew to love family law as a legal assistant and was motivated to become a paralegal. I returned to school to upgrade my skills and expand my knowledge.

I completed my family law paralegal studies at the end of 2022. I joined Connect Family Law in 2023, bringing with me four years of experience in legal policy research and two years of family law experience. I  also come with a fully equipped candy drawer for the team to access when they please.

In my spare time, I enjoy walking along the seawall, drinking Aperol spritz on a patio, and trying out new recipes from Tiktok. I am also an avid cake and cookie decorator, but have had to take a step back due to the issue of an “apartment-sized” oven.

Saya G

With my background in the wild, unpredictable, and people-focused world of hospitality management, my professional skill set is unique yet perfectly suited to my work at Connect as a legal administrative assistant. My experiences as an event coordinator have helped me enhance my attention to detail and my ability to produce work of an exceptional quality. Did I ever expect to find myself working as a legal assistant? Not a chance! The universe works in mysterious ways, but lucky for me, it turns out that I love what I do here at Connect.

I am, at times, a key point of contact between Connect and clients who may be dealing with the emotional, financial or other stressors that can accompany family transitions. Mindful of this, my focus is on putting each client at ease during their interactions with the firm.

I also act as the in-house event coordinator at Connect and have had the pleasure of planning and executing many exciting firm functions throughout my career with the firm – most recently, a very successful firm wide cruise from Vancouver to San Francisco. Whether I’m planning holiday parties or preparing financial statements for negotiation settlements, I’ve got it covered.

When not at work, I am the quintessential “foodie”, always on the lookout for new and exciting concept restaurants to sample. Some of my other personal goals include travelling somewhere new every year with my family and writing and illustrating children’s books (with a little help from my toddler).

Terry Smy

I have over a decade in office administration, customer service and accounting experience in the legal field. In 2021 my career focus shifted to becoming a legal assistant specializing in family law. As Office Manager/ Legal Assistant, I am one of the first points of contact for clients navigating family legal matters while also overseeing the day-to-day support and office logistics for our Kelowna team. I take pride in establishing a connection with clients, offering them empathy during challenging times.

Interacting with my colleagues is a daily highlight, turning our workplace into a community of shared experiences. These colleagues aren’t just teammates; they’re the people who make the work even more meaningful and enjoyable.

In my spare time, I find joy in a variety of activities that allow me to unwind and explore my interests. A lover of the great outdoors, I often embark on hiking adventures, or camping with my family and dogs.

Hailey Jaillet

I have devoted my professional life to assisting and improving the lives of others, or advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I like to think that this makes me a great fit for Connect Family Law. Before I joined Connect, my goal was to find a workplace that shared my values and my views. I am lucky enough to say that I have found it.

As an empathetic and compassionate person, I take every opportunity to connect with our clients on a more personal level and like to ensure our clients feel comfortable and relaxed when attending our office. I come from a large family that prides itself on remaining close and connected. This is also how I feel about my colleagues; close and connected.

Outside of work, I am a dedicated aunty, and a crafter with an extensive skill set that includes crocheting, and baking. When I am not busy with my nieces and nephews, I can’t be found as I am usually off on an adventure. I enjoy camping, fishing, hiking or discovering a new kayaking spot with my husband and two dogs.

Lindsey Henault

I am one of the faces of our Kelowna office, and am known for making clients feel right at home when they attend our office. I am consistently calm, kind and compassionate, and naturally receptive to clients, making them feel at ease even in the most stressful situations.

I have resided in the Okanagan for over 25 years. Previously in the service industry, I decided I needed a change. I became a Legal Assistant in 2019 through Okanagan College. Upon graduating, I have spent the last few years working in family law.

Adventurous by nature, in my free time, I enjoy experiencing what the Okanagan has to offer with my daughter and two dogs, Beckham and Gabriella. Whether it is finding new hiking trails, hidden beaches, wineries and everything in between.

Triana Ketler

I have always had a love of working with people in various walks of life. I had worked in the healthcare field for six years before deciding it was time for a change. When I returned to schooling, it was to become an Administrative Assistant. I am outgoing, caring, empathetic and reliable. Being able to lend a hand and help out is rewarding for me, and I enjoy being someone you can rely upon.

As luck would have it, I joined the team at Connect, with my passion for working with people I happened to be a great fit as Connect’s Kelowna Receptionist/Administrative Assistant. My presence and willingness to assist gives clients peace of mind while they prepare to meet with their lawyer.

In my free time, I thoroughly enjoy reading, streaming new and exciting shows on TV, and spending as much time as possible with my amazing parents and sister.

Ramandeep Khunkhun

With over 4 years of administrative experience and 2 years of accounting experience, I am well-equipped to act in my position as Connect’s Billing Coordinator/Administrative Assistant. I am always up for challenges and love to assist our clients with any accounting related matters and provide administrative support to our firm.

I have gained extensive knowledge in my previous role at a law office focusing on Family and Real Estate Law. I have always had an interest in the legal field from a young age and aspire to continue advancing my skills and knowledge to help excel Connect Family Law to new heights. It is my goal to bring a younger perspective and fresh new ideas to Connect Family Law.

During my free time I like going for walks and spending time with my family. A few of my other hobbies include watching movies/shows and can’t forget online shopping! I enjoy travelling to new places and spending my summers by the water.

Lanie Giles

As Connect’s Accounting Manager, I am a key contact for management, billing clerks, lawyers, clients, and am a central player on the finance team. My background in the hectic world of hospitality management – which included customer service, operational, training and leadership roles – is evident in my ability to easily relate to people and remain cool under pressure.

After nearly 10 years running restaurants, I decided to broaden my professional skill set even further. To my existing Diploma in Hospitality Management and Degree in Hotel Resort Management (from UofC), I have added a Certificate in Financial Management (Professional Accounting) from BCIT, along with hands-on experience in bookkeeping and accounting. All in all the move to the world of accounting in the law industry has been exciting for both myself and the firm.

Outside of the office, I like to spend time with friends and family. I would like to travel to more countries overseas in the future, and I like hiking and long walks on the beach (I know, so cliché right?).

Tracy Halmos

As a busy mom of three children, I need to be organized. Luckily I love organization and process, which makes me an excellent human resources professional. I am also an excellent fit for Connect Family Law and am excited to use my skills to enhance Connect’s HR program and add value to the growing team.

HR always seemed like a natural fit for me. I enjoy working with people and thrive on the variety of work that HR provides.

When not working at Connect, I balance HR consulting for other small businesses and take care of my kids. You can often find me cheering on my kids at a hockey rink or on the soccer field and when I have a moment to myself, I love to take a walk.

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