Maria’s background in psychology, a tenacity honed by years of running her own firm, and experience on her feet before the court as a former Provincial Prosecutor, make her an asset to any client, no matter what religion, race, culture or gender. She has the ability to console and counsel her clients as well as the skill to anticipate the opposition’s theory and tactics, and turn them to her clients’ advantage.

While Maria’s focus is personal injury law, she has a passion for social justice and it shows in and out of the courtroom. She pursued a career in law in order to fill a need after noticing that the Philippine community lacked legal representation, and continues to dedicate a portion of her practice to issues that disproportionately affect that community, including migrant worker law. 

Maria was called to the Bar in 2007. She earned her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Law.  Her passion, understanding and tenacity make her a powerful advocate and opponent.

Memberships

• Ontario Bar Association
• Ontario Trial Lawyers Association
• Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers
• Thomas More Lawyers’ Guild of Toronto
• Kappa Kappa Gamma Women’s Fraternity
• Phi Delta Phi International Legal Fraternity

Education

• Bachelor of Laws (University of Windsor) (2006)
• Bachelor of Arts (University of Waterloo) (2002)
• Certificate in Advanced Principled Negotiation (University of Windsor) (2004)
• Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution (Seneca College of Applied Arts & Technology) (2003)
• Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution (University of Windsor) (2002)
• Seneca College of Applied Arts & Technology High Honours Graduate – Court and Tribunal Agent (Accelerated) (2003)

Awards

• Ontario Trial Lawyers Association 2011 Outstanding Young Lawyer Award
• Ontario Trial Lawyers Association George Bonn Award for Best Cross Examination (2006)
• Cassels Brock & Blackwell Centennial Prize in Practice Skills (2006)
• John W. Whiteside Award (2006)
• Legal Aid Ontario Award (2006)
• University of Windsor, Faculty of Law Prize in Professional Ethics and Conduct (2006)
• University of Windsor, Faculty of Law Award for outstanding contribution to Legal Assistance of Windsor Law Clinic (2006)
• St. Jerome’s University Life Award (2002)

Testimonials from Clients

“She not only answered all of our questions thoroughly, but was able to explain to us all the complicated legal details in a way that was easy to understand. Many times, Maria went above and beyond what was required in order to meet our needs and ease any concerns we had.”  S.W. and D.W.