Karissa Kelln

Karissa holds the position of senior associate within our Indigenous Law Group, dedicating her expertise to assisting Indigenous Nations in realizing their business goals. She also collaborates with innovative businesses eager to form partnerships with Indigenous communities.

Recognized for her exceptional listening skills and effective communication, Karissa deeply understands her clients' preferred business methodologies and the distinctive factors of Indigenous commerce. Her practice is characterized by a methodical and serene demeanor.

In her legal work, Karissa specializes in a variety of areas, including the formation of business entities, crafting partnership and joint venture agreements, and managing the purchase and sale of businesses. She also focuses on governance for boards and bands, negotiations between the Crown and Indigenous communities, promoting sustainable resource management, and handling land leasing and development projects.

Karissa's personal and professional ethos is deeply rooted in promoting equality and environmental stewardship for future generations.

When not immersed in her legal practice, Karissa finds joy in the companionship of her lively Australian Shepherd, Jack, indulges in her passion for art collection, and explores Vancouver's vibrant food and brewery landscape.

Her legal qualifications include being called to the Bar in Saskatchewan in 2023 and in British Columbia in 2017, following her Juris Doctor from the University of Saskatchewan in 2016 and a Bachelor of Commerce with Great Distinction from the same institution in 2011.

Karissa's commitment to the legal community is evident through her roles, including serving as the Co-Chair of the Events Planning Committee for the CBA Women Lawyers Forum (CBA WLF) since 2022, and her active participation on the CBA WLF Executive Committee. Her previous involvement with the CBA Real Property (Vancouver) Section Executive Committee and the CBA WLF Mentorship Committee, where she continues to guide female lawyers as a mentor, highlights her dedication to fostering growth and development within the legal profession.