Jared Craig, Barrister & Solicitor
Jared Craig is a distinguished member of both the legal and academic communities, known for his notable
legal career and significant academic contributions. A gold medalist and multiple award recipient, Jared
graduated with high distinction in Juris Doctor from the University of Saskatchewan. His legal prowess
was refined through a clerkship with the Chief Justice of the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, providing
him with deep insights into judicial processes.
Since his admission to the bars of Saskatchewan and Alberta in 2014, Jared has represented clients in
various capacities across all levels of the Alberta court system, including successful defences in high-
profile criminal cases, such as homicide. He has also demonstrated his legal expertise before the Supreme
Court of Canada.
In academia, Jared has contributed as a lecturer at the University of Calgary and defended a Ph.D.
focusing on the interplay of neuroscience, law, and ethics, particularly in the realm of neurointerventions
and mental rights. His academic work, recognized with a SSHRC fellowship and published in numerous
journals, complements his legal practice, especially in cases involving forensic evidence and clinical
psychiatry.
Jared’s dedication to human rights is a fundamental aspect of his work, guiding both his legal and
academic endeavors. His active involvement in human rights initiatives highlights his commitment to
utilizing the law for safeguarding freedoms and advocating justice. His synthesis of extensive legal
experience and academic insight, combined with a strong ethical foundation, establishes Jared as an
influential and respected figure, embodying the significant impact of integrating legal expertise with an
understanding of broader societal and ethical dimensions.
Jared Craig: Criminal Defence Attorney
C. John Hooker, Barrister & Solicitor
A distinguished alumnus of the University of Alberta Law School, Class of 1974, C. John Hooker has
been a formidable presence in the Canadian legal community since his admission to the Alberta Bar in
1975. John’s extensive experience spans various levels of the judicial system, including the Alberta Court
of Justice, the Court of Queen’s Bench, the Alberta Court of Appeal, and the esteemed Supreme Court of
Canada.
Renowned for his tenacious advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice, John champions the
philosophy that every individual deserves not just representation but representation that is experienced,
meticulously prepared, and wholeheartedly committed. He is steadfast in his belief that every defendant
has an inalienable right to a fair trial and to choose their legal representative. This philosophy has been
the cornerstone of his impressive career.
John’s interests extend beyond the courtroom to the art of playing guitar, a hobby that reveals his creative
side. This pursuit complements his professional life, showing a balance between the discipline of law and
the creativity of music. His legal expertise, along with his diverse interests, marks him as a respected and
well-rounded figure in criminal defence.
For those in need of a seasoned advocate who brings both experience and empathy to the table in Calgary, John
Hooker is available for consultation. Contact him to benefit from his expertise and to ensure your rights
are protected in the legal system.
John Hooker: Criminal Defence Attorney
Gilliana (Jill) Shiskin, Barrister & Solicitor
Gilliana Shiskin is a distinguished barrister, whose career is a testament to her dedication to law,
academia, and social advocacy. As a Juris Doctor graduate from the University of Calgary, she excelled in
her studies and stood out for her active engagement in social causes, culminating in receiving the Pro-
Bono Student’s Canada Volunteer of the Year award. Her commitment to justice is further demonstrated
by her founding and leading the Society of Animal Defence – Calgary Law Students (SADCLawS),
where she passionately advocated for animal rights and welfare.
Her academic journey took an international turn with the Norton Rose International Study Grant, enabling her to pursue studies in Luzern, Switzerland. There, she focused on International Economic Law, Human
Rights, and Sustainability, gaining a global perspective that enriches her legal practice. This international
exposure complements her extensive academic background, including a Master’s Degree in Philosophy,
specializing in Logic and Language, from the University of Alberta, and a Bachelor’s Degree in
Philosophy from the University of British Columbia. Her time as an undergraduate also showcased her
ability to balance academic rigor with athletics, as evidenced by her success as a varsity volleyball player.
Prior to launching her legal career, Gilliana garnered substantial experience in business management and
human resources within a major international natural resources company, focusing on progressive
performance management, employment law, and human rights issues. This diverse professional
background has provided her with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the practical aspects
of law and business.
In her legal practice, Gilliana frequently appears before the Alberta Court of Appeal, achieving
impressive outcomes in high-profile cases. Known for her fearless advocacy, she has handled numerous
murder and high-level drug trafficking cases, earning respect and recognition in the legal community. Gilliana is the Vice President of the Alberta Prison Justice Society and is actively involved in advocating for inmates' rights and prison law issues.
Gilliana’s diverse expertise in academics, human rights, and international law makes her a uniquely
comprehensive lawyer, offering a wide-ranging perspective on both theoretical and practical aspects of
the legal profession.
Gilliana Shiskin:
Criminal Defence & Prison Law Attorney
Namra Latif, Barrister & Solicitor
Namra recently graduated from the University of Calgary's Faculty of Law (JD programme). Prior to entering law school, Namra earned her bachelor's degree in Law & Society and Political Science at the University of Calgary.
While in law school, Namra was an active volunteer with the University of Calgary's Student Legal Assistance program. She managed files and represented clients in criminal, family, and civil law matters.
Namra completed her articles at Student Legal Assistance. She was called to the bar in 2025. She then accepted an Associate Lawyer position with Craig Hooker Shiskin where she continues to develop her criminal defence practice.
In addition to English, Namra is fluent in Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi.
Namra Latif: Criminal Defence Attorney
Roisin (Ro) Burrington, Barrister & Solicitor
Ro recently graduated from the University of Calgary's Faculty of Law (JD programme). Prior to her education in Calgary, Ro obtained a joint major degree in Archaeology and History of Art from the University College Dublin. Ro also has a Master's Degree in the History of Art, Collections and Curation from the University College Dublin.
In her time at law school, Ro was an active volunteer with Student Legal Assistance at the University of Calgary. She managed and represented clients in criminal, family, and civil law matters.
Ro completed the first half of her articles at Student Legal Assistance, and the second half with Craig Hooker Shiskin. She was called to the bar in 2025. She then accepted an Associate Lawyer position with Craig Hooker Shiskin where she continues to build her criminal defence practice. Ro is also passionate about prison justice issues. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Alberta Prison Justice Society.
Ro is fluent in English and Irish.
Ro Burrington: Criminal Defence Attorney
Maria Khan, Barrister & Solicitor
Maria Khan is an Associate Lawyer with Craig Hooker Shiskin, where she practices primarily in criminal defence law. Alongside her criminal practice, Maria brings a strong background in international human rights advocacy, informed by extensive academic training and practical experience in the field.
Maria completed her LLB (Bachelor of Laws) at the University of Southampton, England. She also holds a triple Master’s degree in Human Rights, International Law, and International Corporate Law from University College Dublin, Ireland. She is currently working on her PhD in Human Rights at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.
In addition to her criminal defence practice, Maria has volunteered and worked extensively with Amnesty International, contributing to human rights advocacy and research initiatives addressing violations across multiple jurisdictions.
Maria’s practice is grounded in a strong commitment to justice, the protection of fundamental rights, and the rule of law. Her combined experience in criminal defence and international human rights allows her to approach matters with strategic insight, compassion, professionalism, and a principled global perspective.
Maria Khan:
Criminal Defence & Human Rights Attorney
Administrative Support Team
Carol Chalanchuk
Rebeca Castellanos
Rebeca Castellanos
Legal Assistant and Commissioner of Oaths
Carol’s professional journey began in Ontario, where her dedication and ambition laid the groundwork for a dynamic career. Following high school, she specialized in stenography, completing an intensive one-year program at a college. Her adventurous spirit led her from Banff to ultimately finding her place in Calgary.
In Calgary, Carol continued to expand her professional skills, taking on various administrative and secretarial roles in diverse sectors such as insurance, banking, and the oil industry. These roles enriched her experience and prepared her for a shift into the legal
sector.
Carol excelled academically, graduating with honors from a respected Career College’s Legal Assistant Program.
Since 2002, she has been an integral Administrative and Legal Assistant to John Hooker. Her role, however, is not limited to assisting John. Carol has also offered her expertise to other notable legal professionals, including a lawyer who later became a judge at the Calgary Courts Centre.
Her extensive experience and deep understanding of the legal arena make her a vital member of the Craig Hooker Shiskin team.
Rebeca Castellanos
Rebeca Castellanos
Rebeca Castellanos
Paralegal and Legal Assistant
Rebeca Castellanos is an exceptional paralegal and legal assistant, and a key member of the Craig Hooker Shiskin team. Rebeca plays an integral role in supporting the firm’s criminal defence practice. She brings extensive legal knowledge and practical experience in criminal law, developed through years of professional practice in Mexico.
Rebeca holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree and is qualified to practice law in Mexico. There she worked as a lawyer within the federal government for approximately five years, focusing on criminal law matters. Her work within Mexico's criminal justice system provided her with in-depth experience with complex legal proceedings, investigative processes, and advocacy at the highest levels.
After relocating to Canada, Rebeca transitioned into the role of Paralegal and Legal Assistant at Craig Hooker Shiskin, where she continues to apply her legal training and international experience in support of criminal defence litigation. Her legal education and her previous practice as a lawyer combine to enhance her ability to manage complex files, conduct thorough legal research, and provide effective support to counsel and clients alike.
Rebeca is fluent in both English and Spanish. This enables her to communicate clearly with a diverse client base and contribute meaningfully to client service and case preparation.
Ethan Craig
McKinley Pilling
McKinley Pilling
Office Manager
Ethan Craig is a highly capable Accountant, Office Manager, and Administrator with over five years of experience supporting the operational and administrative functions of professional organizations. His multidisciplinary role allows him to bridge financial management, human resources, and office administration with efficiency and precision.
Ethan holds a Bachelor of Business Management from the University of Lethbridge, providing him with a strong foundation in organizational operations, financial oversight, and strategic planning. His business education enables him to approach workplace challenges with a structured, solutions-focused mindset.
With extensive experience in Human Resources, Ethan plays a key role in personnel management, onboarding processes, compliance support, and internal policy administration. His HR background allows him to navigate sensitive workplace matters with professionalism, discretion, and a clear understanding of organizational dynamics.
Raised in a family deeply immersed in the legal profession, Ethan developed early familiarity with legal concepts, professional standards, and the importance of confidentiality and accountability. This background enhances his ability to work effectively within legal environments and to support lawyers and staff with a strong awareness of legal processes and expectations.
As an Accountant and Office Manager, Ethan is responsible for overseeing financial administration, streamlining office operations, and ensuring the smooth day-to-day functioning of the workplace. His attention to detail, organizational strength, and reliability make him an integral part of the firm’s operational success.
Ethan’s versatility, professionalism, and commitment to excellence position him as a trusted and valued member of the team, contributing consistently to both operational efficiency and a well-managed workplace environment.
McKinley Pilling
McKinley Pilling
McKinley Pilling
Legal Assistant and Commissioner of Oaths
McKinley Pilling is a proficient Legal Assistant and Commissioner of Oaths, distinguished by her comprehensive expertise in various legal sectors.
Graduating with a Legal Assistant Diploma from SAIT, McKinley quickly distinguished herself in the legal arena, skillfully managing complex legal documentation and diverse administrative tasks.
Her dedication to the legal field is evident not only in her technical and administrative abilities but also in her deep understanding of client needs and legal issues. McKinley’s empathetic and professional approach to client interactions makes her an invaluable asset in any legal setting.
McKinley has thrived in areas such as real estate, litigation, corporate law, and personal injury. Her ability to adeptly navigate these different legal areas showcases her versatility and keen attention to detail. Her effective multitasking skills have been instrumental in managing the varied responsibilities in these roles.
With a strong passion for criminal justice, McKinley’s extensive experience across multiple legal domains positions her to make meaningful contributions to this area of law. Her dedication, combined with a versatile skill set, establishes her as a dynamic and valuable member of the legal profession.
Articling Students
Amir Salami, Juris Doctor (2025), Student-At-Law (2025-2026)
Amir has lived in Calgary since 2006. A graduate of the University of Calgary's Law and Society programme, he has always been passionate about legal work.
Graduating with Distinction from the University of Calgary in 2019, he actively committed to professional development. By engaging in volunteering and starting his own business, his dedication to serving the community has been consistent.
After starting law school at the University of Calgary's Faculty of Law in 2022, Amir was blessed with the opportunity to work and volunteer at Student Legal Assistance. For 22 months, Amir has served low-income and newcomers to Canada in matters pertaining to Criminal Law, Civil Law, Family Law, and landlord-tenant disputes. During his final year of his studies, Amir also worked as a summer student, and then as a part-time Law Student with Craig Hooker Shiskin.
After graduating with his law degree in May 2025, Amir started articling at Craig Hooker Shiskin. He looks forward to being called to the bar in 2026, and continuing his career as a criminal defence lawyer with Craig Hooker Shiskin.
Amir is also fluent in Farsi/Persian.
Chanel Blais, Juris Doctor (2025), Student-At-Law (2025-2026)
Chanel graduated with her Juris Doctor from the University of Calgary. She is currently articling with Craig Hooker Shiskin. She expects to be called to the bar in 2026, and continuing her career as a criminal defence lawyer with the Craig Hooker Shiskin team . Her commitment to serving the community is demonstrated by her work as a Caseworker and Outreach Coordinator with Student Legal Assistance, providing legal services to disadvantaged persons who would often otherwise be unrepresented.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a double minor in French and Spanish from Mount Royal University. Writing her Honours thesis on the Mr. Big technique was a catalyst for her dedication to advocating for a fair justice system.
Chanel is fluent in English, and French. She grew up in a French-speaking household and developed her Spanish fluency while on student exchange in Spain.
She enjoys practicing yoga and playing chess.
Kris Phillips, J.D. Candidate (2026)