Maria Rizzetto
Maria joined Lorway MacEachern McLeod Burke in 2022 as an associate. Maria has a Criminal Justice Specialization from the Schulich School of Law (Dalhousie). Maria’s decision to pursue law followed a successful career in public relations working for large organizations such as the QEII Foundation, Halifax Water, and within the Procurement Department for the Province of Nova Scotia.
Maria’s greatest passion is supporting people through difficult times. She is a compassionate and dedicated professional with a reputation for ensuring her clients feel heard, supported and informed while managing their expectations with respect to legal processes.
Maria’s practice is focused on criminal defence and family law. She prioritizes out-of-court negotiations as she strongly believes — with the appropriate guidance and informed perspective — all individuals are capable of reaching agreements in their best interest. This said, she does not shy away from the courtroom when necessary and is a confident litigator.
Maria was raised with a strong sense of community awareness. She never hesitates to volunteer her time and skillset whenever and wherever she can. She was named the recipient of the Dawn Russell Community Commitment Award upon graduating from law school, a discretionary award chosen by faculty and staff for her commitment to community service. She acted as Judicial Board Chair for the Dalhousie Students’ Union, where she reviewed appeals of by-law infringements by students, led public hearings, and wrote public decisions. She currently lends her skillset to numerous boards and organizations focused on her interests.
Maria has appeared before the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia, the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Police Review Board.
Education:
Nova Scotia Bar Admission – 2022
Dalhousie University (JD, Criminal Justice Certificate)
St. Francis Xavier University (BA, English, minor in Psychology)
Nova Scotia Community College (Advanced Diploma in Public Relations)
Professional and Community Involvement:
Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society
Cape Breton Barrister’s Society
Nova Scotia Speech and Hearing (Vice Chair)
Savoy Theatre Society (Board Member)
Cape Breton Music Industry Cooperative (Board Member)
Three Brothers Project (Board Member)
Previous Board Member for Welcome Housing and Support Services
Previous VP Membership for the International Association of Business Communicators
Previous Professional Mentor with Immigration Services of Nova Scotia
Legal Assistant:
Carla Jabalee
Phone: 902-539-4456
Email: carla@lorwaymaceachern.com