COLLABORATIVE FAMILY LAW - Key Persons


Abercrombie, Lindsay

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Aubrey J. Sherman

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  • LAWYER
Aubrey is a Partner at Sherman Law LLP, a certified collaborative lawyer, and a family mediator with over 16 years of hands-on experience in helping families resolve conflict through interest-based and insight discussions. He is a resourceful negotiator, a strong communicator, and an empathetic lawyer who is quick to spot creative opportunities to resolve disputes. He is a fellow of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals and an alumnus of the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School with focus on mediation and conflict management. He has completed Dispute Resolution Levels 1 & 2 at the University of Waterloo & ADR Institute of Ontario. He is currently studying with the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies at Conrad Grebel University College. Aubrey has completed advanced family mediation training through OAFM that allows him to help couples get past impasse, where collaborative discussions often break down and prevent settlement. Aubrey welcomes all modern families in his practice, including same-sex couples. He works with couples who participate in good faith, with honesty, respect, and cooperation. He helps couples design plans based on their interests and goals. He assists clients with parenting plans, separation/cohabitation agreements, and marriage contracts through a collaborative approach. Aubrey assists clients in person and by Zoom video conference. Consultations welcomed.

Beasley, Joanne

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Brezden, Natalie

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Carolyn J. Lloyd

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  • LAWYER
Called to the Bar in 2000, Carolyn completed advanced collaborative family law training in 2002 and also has taken mediation training. Carolyn has been engaged in a specialized practice in family law since 2000. She is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Collaborative Family Law Group of London and Middlesex, the Middlesex Family Law Association, the Ontario Bar Association, the Canadian Bar Association and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts. Carolyn, who is the past president of the Middlesex Family Law Association, earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in Genetics at The University of Western Ontario, and was named to the Dean's Honour List. Her scientific understanding of people is complemented by her continued interest in and study of psychology and human behaviour. Carolyn has spent a lifetime learning about people and she uses that insight to her clients' advantage in all types of family law cases. Carolyn has gained significant experience in collaborative family law and makes CFL a substantial part of her practice.

Cunningham, Robert

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Cynthia L. Mackenzie

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  • LAWYER
Cynthia L. Mackenzie is a lawyer of 30 years' experience. After articling with a large London law firm, she was then employed by a boutique personal injury firm. Shortly thereafter, she joined forces with her formidable father, Charles L. Mackenzie, Q.C. to form the law office of Mackenzie & Mackenzie in general practice. For the past 20 years, she has practiced primarily in the area of family law. In the year 2001, she became a panel lawyer with the Office of the Children's Lawyer and has had the privilege of representing children in custody and access and child protection proceedings for the past 18 years. Cynthia has gained invaluable insight into the effect that separation and divorce have on children, which experience has allowed her to offer real life experience and guidance to separating parents. Cynthia obtained collaborative family law training over 15 years ago in order to expand the scope of her practice to offer clients the ability to resolve family law disputes in a different way, and found that it has the ability to reduce conflict and damage to families caused by protracted litigation. Collaborative law is an excellent option for couples who wish to negotiate terms of domestic contracts, such as marriage contracts or separation agreements, with two experienced lawyers dedicated to crafting custom made solutions which fit the needs of that particular family. Cynthia will advocate for a fair and reasonable solution in a safe and private process at a pace controlled by the parties. Cynthia is married and has three grown children, two dogs and a cat. She was born in London Ontario and obtained her high school diploma at London Central Secondary School. She obtained her B.A. (Hons) in English Literature from McGill University. She obtained her law degree from the University of Western Ontario in 1987 and is now a sole practitioner at the law office of Mackenzie Law Professional Corporation.

Daley, Darlene

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Darlene Daley

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  • LAWYER
Darlene Daley received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Western Ontario in 1997 and her Law degree in 2000. She has been in private practice since her call to the bar in 2002. In 2003 Darlene established her own practice and has continued as a sole practitioner since that time. Darlene has been representing clients with respect to custody, access, child support, spousal support, property disputes and divorce since 2002. In 2012 Darlene joined the panel of the Office of the Children's Lawyer, through the Ministry of the Attorney General's Office and now also represents children in custody and access as well as child protection litigation. Darlene has dedicated herself to assisting people in need and increasing access to justice for disadvantaged groups, by serving as a member of the Area Committee for Legal Aid Ontario and offering her time and expertise to the Superior Court of Justice, Family Court, serving as a Dispute Resolution Officer. Darlene is passionate about helping individuals and families with their legal issues in the most efficient, cost effective and pragmatic manner possible. Darlene's goal is to improve her client's lives and achieve the most positive outcomes possible for them. Darlene has a very focused and practical approach; finding unique and creative solutions to suit her client's individual needs and serve the best interests of each client she works with. Darlene is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, the Middlesex Law Association, the Middlesex Family Law Association, serves on the panel of the Office of the Children's Lawyer (Ministry of the Attorney General), and as a Dispute Resolution Officer, with the Superior Court of Justice, Family Court. Darlene is also currently working towards her certification as a Family Law Mediator. Darlene was born in Exeter, Ontario, just a short distance north of London, Ontario but has lived in London since she was a young adult; she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travelling, reading and is an avid movie and music buff. 362 Wharncliffe Rd South London, Ontario N6J 2M1 Call Us: 519-204-7128 Fax: 519-204-7828 Website: daleylaw.ca Email: darlene@daleylaw.ca

De Veto

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Denkers, Katherine

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Donald Fulton

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  • LAWYER

Doucett, Kimberly L.

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Elly Freund-Bell

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  • FAMILY PROFESSIONAL
I bring 35 years of practice as a Clinical Social Worker (Master of Social Work) and member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My expertise has been working with children, youth and families coping with change, challenges and transitions. I have worked in the field of child protection, family court, addictions, trauma care and mental health services. I use a gentle approach bringing wisdom and common sense to help parents manage difficulties in their relationships with their children regardless of their age. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults helping them cope with the changes and challenges moving toward independence. I am passionate about addressing anxiety, panic disorders and depression across the lifespan using Cognitive Behaviour Techniques, mindfulness and building resilience. My practical solution focused approaches drawing from brain plasticity and neuroscience help individuals make change. Address: 68 Tallwood Circle London, ON N5X 2S1 Tel: 519-318-4634 Email: Efreundbell@gmail.com Website: Ellyfreundbell.com

Erin Reid

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  • LAWYER

Freund-Bell, Elly

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Fulton, Donald

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Gilbert, Kathryn

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Karen Stephenson

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  • LAWYER
Karen has been a lawyer practicing family law in London, Ontario since 1998. After litigating matters in the family court Karen began practicing law with a focus on negotiated settlements. Collaborative law offers clients the most input and control over decisions that affect their families. Karen finds it rewarding to assist clients in reaching a settlement they can feel positive about and implement for the benefit of their families. It would be Karen's pleasure to advocate for you to resolve your legal issues. Stephenson Law Office 64 Fullarton Street London, Ontario N6A 4A3 Phone: 519-667-2262 Email: karenjstephenson@outlook.com

Kathryn Gilbert

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  • LAWYER
Kathryn is a young lawyer who joined Wilhelm Family Law in 2020 with a focus on family and estate law. Kathryn earned her Juris Doctor (JD) at the University of Western Ontario. She completed Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice Skills Training (Levels I and II) in 2020 and works closely with another collaborative family lawyer, Theresa Wilhelm. She is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, the Collaborative Family Law Group of London and the Middlesex Family Law Association. Kathryn earned a Bachelor of Humanities Degree (Hons) at the Carleton University in Ottawa. Kathryn lives in London with her husband and two young children. Address 1555 Glenora Drive, Unit 110, London, Ontario, N5X 1V7 Phone: (519) 488-5561 Ext. 2 Fax: 519-488-5098 Email: kathryn@wilhelmfamilylaw.com Website: www.wilhelmfamilylaw.com

Kelsey Long

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  • LAWYER
I am originally from a small farming community in Southwestern, Ontario, and completed my J.D. at Western University. Before Law School I resided in Kingston, Ontario, and completed a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Classical Studies and History at Queen's University. I have been practicing exclusively in family and estate law since my call to the bar. While I am trained as a family litigator, I have shifted my focus to resolving family law disputes through non-litigation methods such as negotiating separation agreements, mediation and Collaborative Family Law. I believe that it is important to avoid the adversarial and hostile nature of the litigation process, and to achieve solutions that consider both partner's interests and needs, and the needs of their children, rather than have orders imposed upon them by a Court. Collaborative Family Law is an excellent way to achieve resolution together and in a safe space. In my spare time you can find me rock climbing, spending time outdoors, and indulging my love of music. Salim J. Khot Legal Professional Corporation 362 Wharncliffe Rd. South, London, Ontario N6J 2M1 Phone: 519 858-4958 Fax: 519 858-4550 Email: kelsey@sjklpc.com Website: www.sjklpc.com

Khot, Salim J.

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Kimberly L. Doucett

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  • LAWYER
Kimberly has practised exclusively in the area of family law, gaining extensive experience negotiating and litigating in the interests of her clients. She has appeared on behalf of her clients in the Ontario Court of Justice, the Superior Court of Justice and the Court of Appeal. Kimberly continues to restrict her practice to family law and matrimonial litigation. She holds her certification to practise Collaborative Family Law. Kimberly also practises as a panel lawyer with the Office of the Children's Lawyer, representing youth in family and child protection matters. She has acted as a legal consultant with Pearson Education Canada, as recognized in the Law in Action publications. Kimberly is an active member of the London community, volunteering her time with various organizations. For the two year period immediately following her call to the bar, Kimberly worked with various family law specialists gaining considerable experience in the area of family law (including marriage contracts, separation agreements, adoptions and surrogacy agreements), child protection and matrimonial litigation. Areas Of Expertise Family Law

Leaper, Beth

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Lindsay Abercrombie

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  • LAWYER
Lindsay practices exclusively in the area of family law, and has completed Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice Skills Training (Levels I and II). Lindsay is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Collaborative Family Law Group of London and Middlesex, the Middlesex Family Law Association, the Canadian Bar Association, and the Ontario Bar Association. Lindsay earned her Juris Doctor (JD) at the University of Western Ontario and was called to the Bar in 2014. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) with a double major in English Literature and Criminology at the University of Western Ontario, where she was on the Dean's Honour List. Lindsay currently sits on the Board of Directors for SARI Therapeutic Riding. Lerners LLP 80 Dufferin Avenue, P.O. Box 2335 London, Ontario N6A 4G4 Phone: 519-640-6382 Fax: 519-932-3382 Email: labercrombie@lerners.ca Website: www.lerners.ca

Lisa M. Walters

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  • LAWYER
Lisa's practice is exclusively devoted to family law. Her practice includes all areas of family law including, custody, access, child and spousal support, divorce, property issues, domestic contracts and child protection. Lisa is the Past President of the Middlesex Family Law Association. She regularly appears before both the Ontario and Superior Courts of Justice. Lisa obtained a Bachelor of Arts (with distinction) in 2002 from the University of Western Ontario. She attended law school at the University of Western Ontario where she obtained a Bachelor of Laws in 2005. Lisa was called to the Bar in 2006. Lisa spends her free time volunteering for many community organizations including Community Living London. Lisa has chaired a large charity event for Community Living London for many years and is the Past President of the Board of Directors for Community Living London. In 2011 Lisa was named Volunteer of the Year by Community Living London, for her long-standing and distinguished service to people with intellectual disabilities. Lisa is on the Board of Directors for St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation. 1579 Hyde Park Road London, ON N6H 5L4 Phone: 519 672-5953 Fax: 519 672-8736 Email: lisa@familylawgroup.ca Website: www.familylawgroup.ca Contact Lisa M. Walters

Lloyd, Carolyn J.

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Long, Kelsey

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Louise Mimnagh

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  • LAWYER
I am originally from the small cottage town of Kincardine, Ontario, and initially moved to London to complete my Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Social Justice & Peace at King's University College. Before law school I resided in Ottawa and completed by M.A. in Conflict Analysis & Conflict Resolution at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs. Since completing my J.D. at Osgoode Hall Law School, I have valued sharing my legal expertise and tackling intricate legal issues. I am a past President of the Middlesex Family Lawyers Association (MFLA), a former part-time Professor at Fanshawe College for family law, am proud to have published numerous academic papers, and am a regular guest lecturer at family law conferences and education seminars. I am also in the process of becoming an accredited family law mediator with the Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM) and the Family Dispute Resolution Institute of Ontario (FDRIO). I am an accredited family law mediator with the Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM). My spare time is spent staying active, indulging in my love of cooking, following politics, and volunteering with Growing Chefs! Ontario to promote children's food education. Address: Family Lawyers Collective LLP, 200 Queens Avenue, Suite 301, London, ON N6A 1J3 Phone: 226-785-3130 Email: louise@flco.ca Website: www.flco.ca

Louise Poole

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  • Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant
  • FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL
Louise Poole is a Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant, Chartered Business Valuator, and is Certified in Financial Forensics. Louise graduated from the Ivey Business School at Western University with an Honors Business Administration degree, joined Davis Martindale in 2017 and became a Valuations & Litigation Partner in 2020. Her practice specializes in business valuations for matrimonial and litigation support, collaborative family law, tax and estate planning, mergers and acquisitions, financial reporting and economic loss quantifications. Louise has presented several seminars on business valuation topics to lawyers, bankers and business professionals. She has been involved with the community as a Board Member of WIL Employment Connections and as a committee member for The Big Bash in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of London and Area. Louise is a proud member of the Board of Governors for Fanshawe College. Email: LPoole@davismartindale.com

Mackenzie, Cynthia L.

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Maria G. Mendes

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  • LAWYER
Maria has been practicing Family Law in London for over 25 years and Collaborative Family Law since 2002. Maria's clients also benefit from her extensive experience in Real Estate, Business Law, Estate Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Estates when often these areas of law intersect with Family Law. Maria encourages the Collaborative Family Law process as it provides separating couples with independent legal advice at the negotiating table while resolving their family and financial concerns in a respectful environment with flexibility and mutual control, all in a confidential setting. Maria's office is handicapped accessible. Maria is actively involved in the community and has served on many Boards and held the position of Past Chairs of Fanshawe College Board of Governors, Police Service Board, London & Middlesex Housing Authority and City of London Committee of Adjustments. She also was past Director of TICO and London Health Sciences Centre. Maria enjoys travelling - enriching her cultural knowledge of the world and helping her to better connect with people from all backgrounds.

Mendes, Maria G.

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Mimnagh, Louise

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Nadine C. Russell

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  • Associate
  • LAWYER
Nadine C. Russell is an associate lawyer practicing in the family law group at Siskinds LLP. Her practice encompasses all areas of family law including property division, support issues, custody and access, adoptions, and marriage contracts. The bulk of Nadine's work revolves around the breakdown of a relationship. Nadine's goal is to protect and advance her clients' interests and achieve a reasonable, favourable outcome in every case. This is best achieved through the negotiation of a Separation Agreement, which is the most cost-effective process for separated parties. Nadine is a proponent of Collaborative Practice, utilizing a team-based approach and a commitment by both parties to resolve matters amicably outside of court. Family law can be an emotional area of law. Nadine is known to her clients as being straight-forward and practical with her legal advice, while at the same time being sensitive to the needs and concerns of her clients. Nadine is from Essex, Ontario. She graduated with distinction from the University of Windsor with an Honours B.A. in Psychology & Criminology. Nadine then went on to complete her legal studies on the west coast of Canada, obtaining an LL.B. from the University of Victoria. Prior to joining Siskinds for her articling year, Nadine worked during law school with the B.C. provincial government, assisting in the management of a contract with a private sector service provider, and spent one summer working at a boutique law firm in Victoria which specialized in tax law. Address 275 Dundas Street, Unit 1, London, ON N6B 3L1 Phone: (519) 660-7838 Fax: 519-660-7839 Email: nadine.russell@siskinds.com Website: siskinds.com/lawyer/nadine-russell/

Ossenkopp, Karl

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Paula De Veto

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  • FAMILY PROFESSIONAL

Poole, Louise

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Raithby, Michelle

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Reid, Erin

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Robert Cunningham

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  • LAWYER
Robert attended Queens University for law school and has been practicing for over 25 years, initially in personal injury and defense insurance work, and primarily in family law for the last 15 years. He resides in London, Ontario with his wife and two children. Robert believes that it is far more cost-effective and healthier for separating parties to try to work through their separation on a collaborative basis, supported by counsel who share this perspective. The family law horror stories that one hears about almost always occur when one or both parties have lost perspective on what is important, and the willingness to compromise to mutual advantage. To obtain the full benefits of the process the parties need to be prepared to transparently exchange information and work together to achieve a resolution. If they do work together, however, they will be much further ahead than if they proceed through adversarial and positional litigation. Barrister and Solicitor 341 Talbot Street London, ON N6A 2R5 Phone: (519) 433-9061 Fax: (519) 601-5866 Email: robert@rrclaw.ca

Salim J. Khot

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  • LAWYER

Sherman, Aubrey J.

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Stephenson, Karen

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Theresa Wilhelm

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  • LAWYER
THERESA WILHELM, Lawyer SALIM J. KHOT, Lawyer ROBERT CUNNINGHAM, Lawyer PAULA DEVETO, Family Professional MARIA G. MENDES, Lawyer LISA WALTERS, Lawyer KAREN STEPHENSON, Lawyer NADINE RUSSELL, Lawyer CYNTHIA L. MACKENZIE, Lawyer CAROLYN J. LLOYD, Lawyer DONALD FULTON, Lawyer ERIN REID, Lawyer KIMBERLY L. DOUCETT, Lawyer LOUISE POOLE, Financial Professional AUBREY J. SHERMAN, Lawyer DARLENE DALEY, Lawyer LINDSAY ABERCROMBIE, Lawyer LOUISE MIMNAGH, Lawyer MICHELLE RAITHBY, Lawyer NATALIE BREZDEN, Lawyer KATHRYN GILBERT, Lawyer KELSEY LONG, Lawyer ELLY FREUND-BELL, Family Professional

Walters, Lisa

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Wilhelm, Theresa

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