Christopher Chaclag Balawan

Lawyer 

"From Igorot Mountains to Canadian Courtrooms"
Chris’s path to becoming a lawyer in Canada is a testament to determination and cross-continental ambition. Originally from the lush landscapes of Kalinga, Philippines, he earned his Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of the Cordilleras.
However, Chris’s dream of practicing law in Canada seemed distant until he took a leap of faith. After sending his university credentials across oceans, he awaited an assessment by the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA), which was a pivotal step. The NCA recognized his qualifications, and Chris embarked on a rigorous certification process. This journey included articling and education through the Canadian Centre for Professional Legal Education.
In January 2022, Chris’s dedication bore fruit—he was called to the Law Society of Alberta Bar. His experience as a student-at-law spanned family law and criminal law, shaping his understanding of justice and advocacy. As an Igorot lawyer—an indigenous member of the Igorot community—he carries cultural pride and humility, representing both his heritage and the Canadian legal system.
Beyond the courtroom, Chris thrives in the multicultural fabric of Calgary. Fluent in English, Tagalog, and Ilocano, he bridges linguistic gaps for diverse clients. As an immigrant who arrived in Canada in 2011, Chris faced challenges head-on, adapting to a new culture and environment. But he didn’t stop there.
Outside legal chambers, Chris wears different hats. He’s a worship leader at Shekinah Victory Church Calgary, where faith and community intersect. And when he’s not advocating for clients, he’s exploring the Canadian wilderness. Hiking trails, biking through scenic landscapes, and sharing outdoor adventures with his family—these moments recharge his spirit and remind him of the beauty in embracing diversity.
Chris’s journey isn’t just about legal briefs; it’s a symphony of resilience, culture, and community—a melody that resonates far beyond the courtroom walls.

​​

Justine Camille Rivera

Lawyer 

"Bridging Continents and Cultures"
In June 2022, she proudly joined the Alberta Law Society after completing her articling—a significant milestone in her legal career. But her journey began long before that.

Her academic foundation is impressive: a Juris Doctor degree from the esteemed Ateneo de Manila University in 2017, followed by admission to the Philippine Bar in 2018. However, her educational pursuits didn’t stop there. In 2011, she graduated with a degree in BS Accountancy from the University of Santo Tomas, where she also aced the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) board exam in the Philippines.
The leap across continents brought her to Canada, where she faced both challenges and opportunities. While working as a retail associate, she diligently prepared for the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) exams—a crucial step for internationally-trained lawyers. Her determination paid off, and she successfully completed the NCA requirements.
During her articling at a boutique law firm, she gained practical experience across diverse legal domains: real estate, corporate commercial matters, and wills and estates. Her adaptability and commitment shone through as she navigated the Canadian legal landscape.
Beyond legal intricacies, she’s a linguistic bridge. Fluent in English, Filipino (Tagalog), and Pangasinense, she effortlessly communicates with clients from various backgrounds.
But there’s more to her life than courtrooms and legal briefs. When she’s not advocating for clients, you’ll find her exploring the majestic Canadian Rockies—heading to the mountains for rejuvenation. And on quieter days, she indulges in thrifting adventures. Cooking and binge-watching movies with her husband and feline companion complete her downtime repertoire.
In her, we see not just a lawyer but a vibrant tapestry of resilience, education, and leisure—a true embodiment of bridging cultures and embracing life in Canada.

​