Hello/Taanshi!

I'm Jacqueline, the owner and sole practitioner of Pelland Law, a criminal defence practice based in Calgary.

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I am a proud Red River Métis woman, born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and now living and working in Treaty 7 territory.

 

I bring over 12 years of advocacy experience as a community organizer, articling student, and lawyer. To date, I have assisted more than 1,500 adults and youth (ages 12–17) through bail hearings, sentencing proceedings, and trials.

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My work extends beyond traditional courtroom advocacy. I have helped clients access diversion programs, including Mental Health Diversion, and have facilitated referrals to specialized courts such as Calgary Indigenous Court and Tsuut’ina Peacemaking Court where appropriate.

 

Before becoming a lawyer, I organized alongside communities navigating systems that often feel intimidating and isolating. That experience informs my approach to criminal defence today: legal strategy is essential, but so is understanding the person behind the charge.

 

In criminal law, context matters. Upbringing, mental health, community support, and future opportunities all shape how a matter should be addressed.

 

As my client, you can expect:

• Clear, transparent advice delivered in plain language

• Strategic guidance grounded in experience

• Respectful and responsive communication

• Advocacy that is firm in court and compassionate in counsel

 

My goal is to ensure you are fully informed, confident in your decisions, and positioned for stability long after your matter concludes.

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In addition to legal representation, I provide Know-Your-Rights and legal education workshops for youth and adults, and I remain actively engaged in initiatives that promote equity and access to justice.

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It is both a responsibility and a privilege to serve my community through this work.