SHANKAR
LAW OFFICE
FAMILY * CRIMINAL * REAL ESTATE * WILLS & ESTATES * CORPORATE
NOW WITH 4 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER! Owen Sound, Port Elgin, Wiarton and Kincardine
OUR TEAM
We are ready to help you.
VISHAL DUTT
Associate Lawyer
Notary Public
226-256-8054 x 104
Vishal Dutt is a dedicated legal professional with a diverse international background in law. He completed his Bachelor of Law in India before earning his LLM (Master of Laws) in Intellectual Property, Commerce, and Technology in the United States. Following his master's degree, Vishal gained valuable experience as a legal assistant at a prominent U.S. law office, building a strong foundation in legal practice.
He subsequently moved to Canada, where he completed the accreditation and equivalency process to obtain his JD, further expanding his legal expertise. During his studies in Canada, Vishal gained practical experience in the insurance industry before completing his articling at Shankar Law Office, where he developed his skills in family and criminal law. After being called to the bar in 2024, he joined Shankar Law as an Associate Lawyer. In this role, Vishal has represented clients in family law matters, guiding them through case conferences and settlement discussions, with a focus on ensuring they understand their options and that their interests remain the priority.
Vishal takes an empathetic, client-focused approach to his practice, working to resolve matters efficiently while keeping clients informed and supported throughout the process.
RAM SHANKAR
Barrister, Solicitor
Notary Public
226-256-8054 x 101
After earning my Master of Laws from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I spent over 23 years working on international humanitarian and development issues. Since establishing my practice serving Owen Sound, Port Elgin, Wiarton, and Kincardine, I have been a strong advocate for mediation and out-of-court settlements, believing that many disputes can be resolved effectively through collaboration between lawyers and the parties involved.
My practice areas include Family Law, Criminal Law, Litigation, Estates, Wills, and Real Estate, giving me the breadth of experience to serve clients across a wide range of legal needs.
I regularly appear before the Ontario Court of Justice and the Superior Court of Justice throughout the region, including Walkerton, Owen Sound, Goderich, and Collingwood. I am committed to listening carefully to each client's needs and to advocating effectively on their behalf before the Court. My goal is to achieve results that serve my clients' best interests, while responding promptly to communications and keeping clients informed and confident throughout their case. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can help with your legal matter.
CRYSTAL BELL
Paralegal / Law Clerk
Owen Sound Office
226-256-8054 x 102
Crystal Bell is a licensed paralegal and a highly competent, dedicated member of the Shankar Law Office team. She completed her studies at Mohawk College in Hamilton and successfully passed the paralegal licensing exam in 2017. At Shankar Law Office, Crystal assists with matters in family, civil, and criminal law, supporting clients with the necessary paperwork under Mr. Shankar's guidance. She pays close attention to each client's needs and ensures thorough, timely follow-up throughout the process.
You can contact Crystal at cbell.shankarlaw@gmail.com.
IRENE COLLINS
Paralegal/Law Clerk/Notary Public
Port Elgin Office
226-256-8054 x 106
Irene Collins completed the Legal Assistant program at Loyalist College in 2013 and began working as a Law Clerk in 2014. In 2023, she completed her paralegal licensing following her graduation with Distinction from Cestar College. In 2026, after completing Fanshawe College's Family Legal Services Provider program and graduating on the President's Honour Roll, Irene obtained her FLSP (Family Legal Services Provider) designation. She offers services in Provincial Offences matters, summary conviction matters in criminal law, and family law. Irene is detail-oriented and a highly dedicated member of the Shankar Law Office team.
You can contact Irene by email at icollins@shankarlawoffice.com.
MELANIE TURNER
Law Clerk
Port Elgin Office
226-256-8054 x 105
Melanie Turner holds 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. She has worked as a law clerk for over 10 years, with experience spanning real estate, corporate, civil litigation, wills and estates, and criminal law. At Shankar Law, Melanie assists clients with real estate, civil litigation, and wills and estates matters.
You can contact Melanie by email at mturner.shankarlaw@gmail.com.
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TERRA COTURE
Office Assistant
Owen Sound Office
226-256-8054 x111
As your first point of contact at Shankar Law Office, Terra Van Vugt is an empathetic listener dedicated to providing excellent client service each time she answers the phone or greets you at the Owen Sound office. Terra ensures that your questions and concerns are heard without judgment and directed to the appropriate law clerk, paralegal, lawyer, or manager at Shankar Law Office.
You can contact Terra by email at tvanvugt.shankarlaw@gmail.com.