Strategic counsel.
Simple solutions.
Invested in your vision.
About
Melissa Tessler is a lawyer, strategic advisor, and advocate with fifteen years of practice in Canada and internationally. She brings two distinct bodies of expertise to every client matter: a deep commercial and transactional practice, and a background in public policy research, investigation, and international justice.
Her practice goes beyond legal advice. She works with clients to build the strategies, relationships, and legal frameworks they need to grow, whether that means operating programs across borders, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, or protecting their most valuable assets through well-negotiated agreements.
Call to the Bar
Law Society of Ontario, 2011
Education
JD, University of Ottawa, 2010
BA, Media Theory and Production, University of Western Ontario, 2007
Fellowship in Global Journalism, Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto, 2017
Certified Mediator, International Mediation Institute, 2020
Legal Expertise
Commercial, Media & Entertainment, Not-for-profit, International Law & International Agreements, Indigenous Rights, Litigation & Dispute Resolution
Who I work with
01
Legal support that understands your values as well as your bottom line. From incorporation through every stage of growth.
02
Non-profits and charities face a distinct set of legal challenges. Whether operating in Canada or internationally, I work with your team every step of the way to ensure your organization thrives.
03
Legal and strategic advice for artists, producers, designers, writers, and creative businesses.
Legal support that understands the creative world and protects what you have built.
How I work
From a single project to full organizational support, I offer customizable packages tailored to your goals and budget.
01
Every engagement starts with understanding what you are building: your goals, your vision, your constraints. Not just your legal problem.
02
I cut through legal complexity and translate it into plain language so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
03
Counsel that is proactive, not reactive. I build legal, strategic and policy frameworks that support your long-term growth — not just solve today's problem.
04
I stay invested in your success long after the file closes. Your growth is the measure of my work.
What I do
01
From contracts and governance to intellectual property, employment, compliance, and negotiation — comprehensive legal support that goes beyond the paperwork to serve your larger vision. I take the time to understand your world before I start drafting, and I negotiate on your behalf every step of the way.
02
Working with leadership to understand your goals, identify risk, and build long-term strategies that are legally sound and aligned with your mission — so you can grow with clarity and confidence.
03
When a crisis occurs, I step in to support your organization — conducting investigations, advising on next steps, and guiding executive and communications teams through the process with steady, experienced judgment.
04
Strategic, well-researched policy support for clients entering new markets or operating across borders — helping you understand the legal, regulatory, and political landscape before you step into it, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
05
Drawing on a background in journalism and international justice, I develop strategic advocacy positions and make targeted submissions on your behalf — whether to regulators, government bodies, or institutions — ensuring your voice is heard where it matters most.
06
My first instinct is always to protect your relationships and resources. As a certified mediator, I work to resolve disputes without litigation wherever possible. When the courtroom is unavoidable, I bring nearly a decade of litigation experience to your corner.
Regional focus
Canada and Mexico are at a pivotal moment in their bilateral relationship. The organizations that move now to build cross-border relationships, understand the regulatory landscape, and position themselves strategically will be the ones that define the next chapter of North American trade.
I support Canadian and Mexican organizations in building the relationships and legal frameworks needed to operate, grow, and advocate effectively across the corridor. Whether you are entering a new market, structuring a cross-border partnership, or engaging with regulators and government on both sides, I bring the expertise and the networks to move your work forward.
Every good partnership starts with a conversation. Reach out to discuss your goals — no obligation, no jargon.