About Us
We are a legal team in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, led by Jasmine Gassi Harnden. Jasmine has been practicing law since 2015, and focuses her practice on family law, child protection, criminal defence, estate planning, and family mediation.
Our Story
Jasmine Gassi Harnden
When I decided to go to law school and pursue a career as a lawyer, the objective was simple: to help strangers, families and friends to achieve their goals, be their best selves, and find peace in their lives, no matter how big or small. From a young age, I always knew I wanted a career where people and humanity were the focus and that I was destined to be a lawyer.
I began my journey as a student at the University of Waterloo studying Sexuality, Marriage and Family Studies, where I pursued my passion for working with and learning about individuals, relationships, and families. It has been the cornerstone in understanding my clients and their needs today.
In 2014 I graduated from Western Michigan University’s Law School. I was sworn into the State Bar of Michigan in May of 2015, and I was called to the Bar with the Law Society of Ontario on January 27, 2017. I first practiced as an Attorney in Petoskey, Michigan in 2015, where my focus was in criminal defence, family law, and personal injury. In January of 2017, I commenced my practice in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario as an associate lawyer. By March of 2019, I opened the doors to my own law firm and I have never looked back.
I am the first lawyer in my family, and one of the first members of my family to attend professional school. My parents have been my biggest inspiration, motivation, and support. They are two people who married young with nearly empty pockets, and never gave up on their dreams.
My mission as a lawyer is to support all of my clients with compassion, and to help them to feel optimistic about their future.
Outside of my legal practice, I enjoy spending time at home with my dogs and my husband, reading spirituality based books, running, and martial arts. On evenings and weekends, I often find myself unwinding by binging on reality tv shows or playing piano. I also love escaping the snow every winter, and traveling to a Caribbean destination with my husband.
Our Mission
We are a compassionate legal team that empowers people to let go of the past, create stability in the present and instill hope for the future through legal advocacy.
Our Family
Brittany Paquette
Brittany is a Paralegal student, and soon to be licensed Paralegal. She attended Algoma University and received a double major in History and Law & Justice in 2019. In 2021, Brittany earned her honours diploma in Paralegal Studies.
Outside of the office, Brittany mostly spends quality time with her dogs, Lexi and Hudson, and her fiance, Josh. She enjoys spending time at her family camp in Goulais Bay, traveling, and is an avid fan of everything Disney.
Brittany is caring and compassionate, but also fierce when it comes to assisting our clients with their legal needs.
Our Values
BALANCE
Harmony between work and personal life. We honour balance for ourselves and for our clients by setting compassionate boundaries.
connection
The relationship between ourselves, others and the world. We strive to form warm connections and lay the foundation for trust.
inclusivity
The provision of equal and fair access to all. We welcome everyone with empathy and awareness and without judgment.
Our Fur Kids
Molly
Molly was born at Kent Family Farms in Desbarats, Ontario in 2021. She is the last born of 9 brothers and sisters.
Molly joined the office at just 8 weeks old, with absolutely no training. Despite her lack of experience, Molly is a very quick learner, and has really excelled at making people smile and smiling back, asking for treats, and giving kisses. Molly is very passionate about office supplies, especially elastic bands.
While Molly has only been working for about one year (which she describes as feeling like seven years), she has become very skilled at answering the door and making clients feel welcome.
When not working, Molly loves going for walks, doing zoomies, playing with her toy squirrels, and taking naps in the sun.
Beau
Beau, like his half-sister Molly, was born at Kent Family Farms. He was the fifth born of 8 brother’s and sisters. Beau, the handsome apricot goldendoodle, joined our team in June of 2023.
At the office, Beau’s favourite activity is napping on his mom’s office chairs or her lap, meeting new people, and learning the ropes from his sister, who has over a year more in experience than he does. He has quickly become skilled at going up and down the stairs, shaking paws, and asking for treats.
When he is not at the office, Beau loves digging holes, chasing Molly, and playing with his tennis balls.
