Jared Craig, Barrister & Solicitor

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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.

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.

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 has frequently appeared 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’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.

Gunntas Sidhu, a recent Juris Doctor graduate from the University of Calgary, has rapidly made his mark

in the legal field, especially in criminal law. His early career at Student Legal Assistance and articling at

Craig Hooker Shiskin honed his legal acumen, allowing him to assist in numerous high-profile and

complex cases involving serious charges—securing exceptional outcomes for his clients.

While a recent call, Gunntas has already demonstrated an impressive courtroom presence, tirelessly

advocating for his clients with a client-centered approach. He is committed to understanding each client’s

unique circumstances and crafting tailored strategic solutions, communicating clearly and honestly

throughout the process.

Gunntas’s journey, which began with helping low-income individuals, has fueled his dedication to

criminal law. His empathy, strategic thinking, and legal expertise make him a formidable advocate.

In his personal life, Gunntas enjoys golf, showcasing his well-rounded character. His skilled yet humble

approach to law, combined with his dedication to client success, establishes him as a valuable and

promising figure in the criminal law sector.

CHS had the pleasure of welcoming Connor Sprague in June of 2024! 

Connor Sprague has a wealth of early experience and a true passion for criminal law.

Connor is a Juris Doctor graduate from the University of Calgary, where he received the Gary J Bigg Memorial Award in Advocacy for his work with Student Legal Assistance, an organization which provides free legal assistance to low-income Alberta residents with criminal, family, civil, and traffic law matters. 

Connor successfully ran several trials as a law student and served as the Student Director of Student Legal Assistance in his final year of law school.

Following law school, Connor narrowed his focus to criminal law, articling for a prominent and highly respected Calgary criminal defence lawyer. In this article, Connor directly assisted in achieving exceptional outcomes for persons facing very serious charges in complex circumstances.

Connor’s deep interest in the law next led him to complete a clerkship with the judges of the Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary, providing him with an invaluable understanding of how judges think through and decide cases.

Connor deeply believes that every person charged with a criminal offence deserves a resolute defence. He is committed to understanding each client’s situation and strategically working to achieve their priorities with empathy, integrity, and as much ambition as needed. 

In his personal life, Connor enjoys playing many recreational sports mediocrely, occasionally hiking in the Rockies, and sometimes reading things other than legal decisions. 

CHS is excited to welcome this year's Articling Student, Isabelle Reynolds. 

Isabelle obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Studies and Political Science from the University of King's College in 2020. Additionally, she obtained a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Calgary's Faculty of Law in 2023. 

Isabelle has extensive experience in legal research from previous professional roles and was honoured to serve as an Articling Student  at the Court of King's Bench of Alberta in Calgary. 

The combination of Isabelle's experiences and her calm demeanour in court allow for exceptional representation for clients from any background. 

Isabelle is also fluent in French.

Amir Salami, J.D. Candidate (2025)

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. 

Amir is also fluent in Farsi/Persian.

Chanel Blais, J.D. Candidate (2025)

Chanel pursued 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.

Currently pursuing her Juris Doctor at the University of Calgary, 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.

Chanel 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.

Roisin (Ro) Burrington, Student-at-Law

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 Masters 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. 

Currently, Ro is completing the first half of her articles at Student Legal Assistance, and will join CHS in January of 2025!