Michelle is a senior lawyer with over 25 years of experience, called to the Manitoba Bar in 1999 and the Saskatchewan Bar in 2020. She holds a law degree from the University of Calgary and is a practicing member of the Law Societies of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Her practice encompasses family and civil litigation, wills and estates, and Aboriginal law.
Michelle’s diverse career has shaped her into a well-rounded and strategic advocate. She has served as a staff litigation lawyer with Legal Aid Manitoba, Legal Director for Legal Aid Saskatchewan, and in-house corporate counsel. She has also practised with established Winnipeg, Manitoba firms, including Pitblado LLP and Pullan Kammerloch Frohlinger, and founded Tradition Law LLP, a boutique wills and estates firm.
In 2014, she established The People’s Corner Law Office, a small full-service firm focused on delivering accessible, client-centered legal services. In 2019, Michelle founded The People’s Corner Legal Options, a legal information and coaching company that provides practical guidance to help people understand and navigate their legal options outside the traditional law firm model. Michelle relocated to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 2020, where she continues her practice.
An experienced litigator, Michelle has appeared before all levels of court. She is a strong advocate for strategic and effective representation, while emphasizing resolution outside the courtroom whenever possible. Her extensive experience in family and estate matters has given her a deep understanding of the personal and emotional complexities clients face, and she is committed to providing practical guidance and steady support throughout the legal process. Michelle works with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and tailors her approach to meet each client's unique circumstances, priorities, and budget.
Michelle regularly advised clients on cohabitation, prenuptial, and separation agreements, as well as wills, powers of attorney, and health care directives. She is a passionate advocate for proactive legal planning and the protection of individual rights, with a particular focus on minimizing the emotional and financial consequences of inadequate or absent legal documentation.
In addition to her practice, Michelle is an active contributor to legal education. She has presented on wills and estates for organizations including the Alzheimer Society and the Law Society of Manitoba. She served as Editor-in-Chief of National Concordance, a Canadian Bar Association publication on wills and estates law, and as editor of Capacity of Undue Influence by John Poyser. Her background in business, human resources, and client service further supports her effective and efficient management of client matters.
Outside of her legal work, Michelle is committed to holistic wellness and has been an accomplished fitness leader for over 25 years. She enjoys spending time in nature, being active in the water, and connecting with her family, friends, and dogs.