Karissa Stiles - Managing Director
Karissa Stiles is the Managing Director of Phypers Law. Having worked alongside Laura since the firm's inception, Karissa has played an instrumental role in building Phypers Law into a respected, client-focused practice. As Managing Director, Karissa oversees the firm's operations, strategic planning, business development, and organizational growth.
Laura Phypers - Founding Partner
Laura began her career as a criminal defence lawyer. She is a fierce advocate for her clients and has fought diligently to protect her clients' rights against false allegations. Laura's skill set is a combination of determination, dedication, and loyalty to her clients, as well as her ability to understand the intricacies of the law. She continues to learn the law and its application as it develops and changes and uses it to get the best results for her clients.
Steven Faryna - Associate Lawyer
Steven obtained his Juris Doctor from the University of Victoria, where he was an active member of the Indigenous Law Students Association and the Native Student Union. As Advocacy Coordinator for the Native Student Union, he assisted with disputes within the membership and between the organization and the University. Although he valued his time at UVic, Steve still considers Red Deer Polytechnic his favourite place of higher learning, and he fondly remembers his time spent there from 2008 to 2010.
Ali Naqvi - Associate Lawyer
Ali Naqvi brings over ten years of legal experience across multiple jurisdictions, beginning his career in India before relocating to Canada, where he has lived and worked in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. His diverse background in family law, immigration law, and civil matters allows him to approach each case with adaptability, cultural awareness, and a practical understanding of the challenges clients face during stressful times. Known for his empathetic and detail-oriented approach, Ali is committed to clear communication, strong preparation, and steady advocacy, helping clients move forward with clarity, dignity, and confidence.
Harshel Doshi - Litigation Lawyer
Harshel is a family litigation lawyer with Phypers Law, bringing over five years of international experience in commercial and civil litigation, arbitration, and teaching. He has appeared before courts and tribunals in India and Canada, including the High Court of Mumbai and the Ontario Court of Justice. Passionate about working closely with people, he values clear communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving to help clients achieve the best outcomes.
Teka Francis - Student at Law
Teka Francis is a Student at Law who brings a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to her legal work. She provides thoughtful and reliable support to lawyers and clients navigating complex litigation. Teka holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with Honours from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom. Before entering the legal field, she built a strong professional foundation in financial services and software implementation, where she developed a client-focused approach, strong organizational skills, and careful attention to detail. Her legal experience includes supporting a senior litigator on criminal, health, and civil matters, including cases involving Indigenous clients and individuals from vulnerable communities. Known for her professionalism, thorough preparation, and calm presence, Teka approaches each matter with care and diligence. She is committed to helping clients navigate complex legal processes with empathy, clarity, and confidence.
Michaela Rutherford - Paralegal
Michaela is an experienced family paralegal and the owner of Rutherford Paralegal. As an independent contractor with Phypers Law, she focuses on Family Law, supporting the lawyers and clients on complex matters, including high-conflict cases and domestic violence.
Desiree Friesen - Legal Assistant
Desiree is an exceptional assistant who brings a decade of experience in the customer service industry to her role. She has quickly become a strong contributor to our team, demonstrating excellent communication skills and determination in the legal realm. Desiree takes the time to truly understand the needs of both our lawyers and our clients. In addition to her legal support, she is also our interior designer, passionate about creating beautiful spaces and brightening our office with her positive attitude every day.
Kirena Barr - Legal Assistant
Kirena is a highly motivated legal assistant with a strong background in family law. Having worked in busy family law firms, she brings both technical expertise and heartfelt dedication to her role at Phypers Law. She provides essential support to clients and lawyers by organizing case files, coordinating communication, and ensuring every detail is handled with accuracy and care.
Tayla Phypers - Legal Assistant
Tayla brings over five years of experience in marketing and sales in the legal industry to her role at Phypers Law. After working in marketing and sales, she discovered her passion for family law and transitioned into a position where she could make a meaningful impact on clients’ lives. Her keen insights and strong organizational skills ensure that every file is managed with precision and care.
Emily Koop - Legal Assistant
Emily brings energy, sharp attention to detail, and genuine dedication to her role at Phypers Law. Known for her strong work ethic and proactive approach, she takes pride in supporting both her clients and teammates to ensure every case is handled with care and accuracy. Emily truly loves the fast-paced, collaborative environment at the firm and is passionate about delivering top-tier support every day.
Melody Deleeuw - Client Care Specialist & Health Representative
With over 20 years of experience in reception, administration, and legal assistant roles, Mel is the calm and steady presence clients and colleagues rely on. She spent more than a decade at the Outreach Centre supporting individuals through sensitive family matters with care and professionalism, before moving on to Advocate Law where she ensured smooth daily operations. At Phypers Law, Mel continues to combine empathy, precision, and organizational excellence—welcoming clients with warmth while keeping the office running seamlessly.
Holly Dressel - Booking Consultant
As Booking Consultant at Phypers Law, Holly Dressel is often the very first voice clients hear, and she makes that first step feel reassuring and clear. With several years of experience in the legal field, she brings both empathy and precision to her role, carefully listening to each person’s situation and thoughtfully matching them with the lawyer best suited to their needs. Holly knows the entire legal team well—their strengths, communication styles, and approaches—which allows her to guide clients toward support that feels both legally sound and personally aligned.
Khalid Hawasli - Paralegal
Khalid brings 20 years of legal practice in Damascus, Cairo, Dubai, Riyadh, Lubumbashi and Montreal to every file. An internationally trained lawyer with an LL.M. from Osgoode Hall, he drafts the firm’s family law documents with precision and care, and welcomes clients in English, Arabic and French.
Amy Tickle - Paralegal
Amy is a dedicated Paralegal at Phypers Law with a passion for helping clients navigate challenging circumstances with confidence and support. Graduating with Honours from her Paralegal program, Amy was recognized by the Alberta Association of Professional Paralegals (AAPP) for her academic achievements.

