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OUR TEAM

We are ready to help you.

At Shankar Law Office we give you cost effective, individualized attention. We carefully review each case in detail and create a strategy to achieve your desired outcome. We pledge to give you the care you deserve, every step of the way. 

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VISHAL DUTT
Associate Lawyer
Notary Public

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Vishal Dutt is a dedicated legal professional with a diverse background in law and a passion for helping clients navigate legal matters. He completed his Bachelor of Law in India before earning his LLM (Master of Law) in Intellectual Property, Commerce, and Technology in the USA. After his master's, Vishal gained valuable experience as a legal assistant at a prominent law office in the United States, where he developed a strong foundation in legal practice.

He then moved to Canada and pursued his accreditation and equalization of law (JD), further expanding his expertise. During his studies in Canada, Vishal gained practical experience in the insurance industry and then completed his articling at Shankar Law Office, where he honed his skills in family and criminal law. After being called to the bar in 2024, he joined Shankar Law as an Associate Lawyer. At Shankar Law, Vishal has represented clients in family law matters, guiding them through case conferences and settlement discussions. He is committed to educating his clients about their best options while prioritizing their interests.

Vishal is passionate about resolving issues and addressing any questions his clients may have. With a strong focus on empathy and understanding, he strives to make a positive impact in the lives of those he serves.
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RAM SHANKAR
Barrister, Solicitor
Notary Public

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After receiving my Masters of Law from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I worked on humanitarian and development issues internationally for over 23 years. Since opening my practice in Owen Sound and Port Elgin, I have been a huge advocate for mediation and out of court settlements.  I believe that many issues can be settled with a collaborative effort between lawyers and parties. Family, Criminal, Civil Litigation, Estates, Wills and Real Estate are just a few of the areas that round out my legal expertise, making me a versatile choice as a lawyer. I regularly practice in the Walkerton, Owen Sound, Goderich and Collingwood court houses, in the Ontario and Superior Courts of Justices. I am extremely committed to carefully LISTENING to each client's needs and fearlessly, zealously and effectively representing your needs to the Court by thorough preparation, research and presentation. I am passionate about my work, and to achieve results that YOU, the client, is happy with. I am extremely quick to respond to client communications and to ensure that you are stress free and feel confident about your case. I look forward to hearing from you.
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VICKY-LYNNE HICKS
Manager
Owen Sound, Port Elgin & Wiarton
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Vicky brings with her to Shankar Law over 25 plus years of Management experience.  She is an exceptional team leader who actively works alongside the clerking staff to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of customer service.  She expanded her management skills during her most recent employment as a District Manager with the Owen Sound Sun Times, overseeing a staff of 50.  She is an advocate for the youth in our community and has demonstrated this in the past by serving as Secretary Director for Big Brothers of Owen Sound for over 13 years.  During her tenure with Big Brothers she actively participated in many fundraising events, developing strong ties with a variety of members in our community.  Vicky is a detail-oriented, computer-savvy administrative professional with versatile office management skills acquired through years of experience as an electrical contractor in the construction sector.  You can contact Vicky at vhicks.shankarlaw@gmail.com
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CRYSTAL BELL
Paralegal / Law Clerk
Owen Sound Office
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A licensed paralegal, extremely competent and hard working team member, Crystal completed her studies at Mohawk College in Hamilton and  completed the paralegal licensing exam in 2017 . With Shankar Law Office, Crystal assists with Family, civil and criminal laws and will assist you with any paperwork under Mr. Shankar's guidance that is required in these areas. Crystal pays careful and close attention to the client's wishes and provides thorough follow up. You can contact Crystal at cbell.shankarlaw@gmail.com
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IRENE COLLINS
Paralegal / Law Clerk
Port Elgin Office
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Irene completed the legal assistant program at Loyalist College in 2013 and began work as a Law Clerk soon after developing her skills in family, criminal and civil law, wills and estates and real estate law. Irene is detail oriented and is a very dedicated member of the team at Shankar Law Office.  You can contact Irene by email at icollins.shankarlaw@gmail.com
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MELANIE TURNER
Law Clerk
Port Elgin Office
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Melanie has an honours bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in philosophy from the University of Ottawa and a Bachelor of Law from the University of London. Melanie has been working as a law clerk for over 10 years, with experience in areas of real estate, corporate, civil litigation, wills and estate and criminal law. With Shankar Law, Melanie assists with real estate, civil litigation, wills and estates. You can contact Melanie by email at mturner.shankarlaw@gmail.com
Terra Vanvugt

TERRA VAN VUGT
Office Assistant
Owen Sound Office
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As your first point of contact at Shankar Law Office, Terra is an empathetic listener who strives to provide excellent client service each time she answers the phone or greets you in the Owen Sound Office. Terra will ensure your questions and concerns are heard, without judgement and directed to the appropriate law clerk, paralegal, Lawyer or manager here at Shankar Law Office.  You can contact Terra by email at tvanvugt.shankarlaw@gmail.com

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

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