Melody Macdonell Email & Phone Number

I have been practicing family law since 1993 in Ottawa, as a sole practictioner and now with Rasmussen Starr Ruddy LLP law firm. My philosophy is to work out the most efficient, cost-effective agreement for my clients. I start from the position of negotiating a fair and just solution for my clients' needs based on my extensive knowledge. I have gained considerable experience in family law and divorce law, including divorce, separation, same-sex relationships, child custody, child support, spousal support, marriage contracts ("pre-nups"), intra-family adoptions, and family court litigation. I have appeared successfully at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, District Court and the Ontario Court of Appeal. As a separation lawyer, although I am at home in the courtroom ,I believe going to court should only be an option when it is in the client’s best interest. I grew up in Calgary and earned a BA in English & Political Science from the University of Calgary in 1985. I took time off to live and work at Lake Louise, Alberta, and to travel throughout Australia and New Zealand. I moved to Ottawa in 1986 and graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Laws in 1990. I was called to the bar in 1993 and have been practicing family law ever since. I love helping families protect their futures while in a relationship and help them get through what is a difficult and emotional time if they separate or divorce. I was, myself, divorced in 1997 so can relate to my clients.

Listed skills include Family Law, Divorce Law, Legal Assistance, Legal Advice, and 5 others.