Melissa Wemyss | C.E.O. and Senior Law Clerk

Why I work at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC

Working at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC allows me to be a part of a team that helps lead the legal community in the City of Kawartha Lakes. WARDS LAWYERS ^PC is on the cutting edge for the latest in technology, which allows me to provide better services in less time. The team at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC is trend-setting in the way smaller law firms should practise.

Jason, Karissa, Ryan, Monique and Anna all encourage growth, learning and the development of skill. I am fortunate to be able to work at a place where continual learning is not only encouraged, but part of the day-to-day norm.

Something else close to my heart is being very involved in my community. WARDS LAWYERS ^PC is, in my view, a leader in promoting, supporting and sponsoring many different community events, teams and other programs.

WARDS LAWYERS ^PC has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception in 2004. In my view, it has become a pillar in our community and is one of the most sought after law firms in our area. It is definitely the place to be. I am very proud to have played a role in making this WARDS LAWYERS ^PC what it is today.

Memorable Moment

Without a doubt, Haunt Your Home. This unique, crazy and community-driven event was truly one-of-a-kind. Haunt Your Home was a brilliant idea and so much fun to be a part of. HYH allowed me to give back to the community in a way that I couldn’t otherwise do and the HYH team is, bar none, the best group of people to work with.

A close second, has to be paint ball. Nothing brings a team together like sweat and tears. Maria is an event planner extraordinaire and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us in 2019.

Community Involvement

• WARDS LAWYERS ^PC Kids' Road Hockey Tournament supporting kids’ mental health
• Central East Correctional Centre – Former Community Advisory Board Member
• Kawartha Lakes Law Clerks’ Association – Co-founder
• Lindsay Downtown BIA – Former Marketing Committee Member
• Haunt Your Home – Co-founder and Team Member
• Active in supporting not-for-profit events (i.e., Bowl for Kids’ Sake, Race for Kids, KL Classic Cycling Tour, Kids’ Road Hockey)

Notables

• 2017 - Sent Cameron off to Queen's Engineering - Proud mom moment

• 2016 - Checked another one off the 'bucket list' with a cross-country road trip to Arizona

• 2016 - Moved to Omemee, Ontario

• 2016 - Turned a fun hobby into a new small business venture Kawartha Soap Co.

• 2015 - Appointed by the Ministry of Safety and Correctional Services to the Community Advisory Board for the Central East Correctional Centre

• 2015 - Joined the Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Association

• 2013 - Flew for the first time! Enjoyed a not so well timed vacation to Cuba during Trial Sittings

• 2012 - Co-founded the Kawartha Lakes Law Clerks Association

• 2011 - Took a ‘bucket list’ road trip across the east coast of Canada

• 2010 - Promoted to Firm Manager at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC

• 2009 - Helped create and launch Haunt Your Home

• 2008 - Spearheaded a 'paperless' initiative at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC

• 2004 - Joined WARDS LAWYERS ^PC

• 2002 - Moved to Fenelon Falls, Ontario

• 2000 / 2001 - Achieved Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario accreditation in both Real Estate and Wills

• 1999 - Became a parent (to Cameron)

• 1997 - Graduated from SSFC from Office Administration - Executive program

A message from Melissa

I truly enjoy my role as a Senior Litigation and Family Law Clerk at WARDS LAWYERS ^PC. In addition, I have to manage this motley crew as the Firm Manager. There is never a dull moment. Every day there is a new challenge - I love coming to work. I'm very proud of what we've accomplished. Serving our clients 24/7 is important and rewarding for me. If you need the best help, I know we can provide it to you.