Orlagh is a public law lawyer with extensive experience advising and representing both government and private clients.
At Field law Orlagh maintains a broad public sector practice, with a particular emphasis on federal matters. She approaches her practice with a keen understanding of government, working for several years in the Ottawa, Toronto and Edmonton Department of Justice offices. During this time, she represented the Attorney General, various ministries, federal tribunals and often advised high level clients within the bureaucracy, including assistant deputy ministers.
As a litigator, Orlagh is a confident advocate. Orlagh's litigation clients, include law enforcement agencies, professional organizations, employers, First Nations’ clients and private individuals. Orlagh provides strong representation to her clients, drawing on experience before all levels of Court in Ontario, the Federal Court trial and appeal divisions, the Alberta Provincial Court (criminal), Alberta Court of Queen's Bench, the Tax Court and various tribunals, including the Canadian International Trade Tribunal.
Orlagh has successfully litigated in diverse matters relating to:
- Government Contract/ Procurement litigation
- Administrative law review of government/regulatory decisions
- Indigenous governance
- Aboriginal Treaty claims
- Employment and human rights adjudications
- Constitutional/Charter challenges
- Malicious prosecution
- Misfeasance in public office claims
- Defence in Criminal prosecutions
- International trade rulings
- Refugee and Immigration appeals
As the lead of Field Law's Canadian Immigration practice, Orlagh offers strategic advice to employers and individuals to create cross-border business opportunities. This includes facilitating temporary or permanent employment or assisting in the transition from permanent residence to citizenship. As the daughter of first-generation immigrants, Orlagh believes in the importance of ensuring global mobility and has a first-hand appreciation of the importance of these applications to her clients.
Value to Clients
Clients appreciate Orlagh's ability to cut to the heart of legal issues and explain them precisely. She consistently finds pragmatic solutions to complex problems and is always driving towards the best outcomes for her clients. In doing so, Orlagh never loses sight of the human dimension to her clients’ problems and provides holistic support in navigating the legal system.
Outside the Office
Orlagh is always running. Whether it be in the river valley on the weekend, or through the city on her way home, or after her three boys once she gets there, Orlagh is in constant motion. Whenever she does sit down, she plays the harp or piano, but these days she mostly listens to Canada's great homegrown talent. In her previous life, she was a proud member of two varsity swim teams: the University of Toronto (co-captain) and the University of Calgary (national team champions).
Edmonton Bar Association
Member
2019
Canadian Bar Association
Member
2019
Canadian Bar Association, Alberta North Administrative Law
Executive Member
2019
Criminal Lawyers Association
Member
Edmonton Community Legal Clinic (Immigration/Civil)
Day Clinic Lawyer
"As a former Peace Officer I was subjected to a disciplinary investigation after making several disclosures against senior executives and other Peace Officers. Facing reprisal, it became apparent that I needed a law firm that managed higher profile law enforcement cases, information pertaining to whistleblowers, adjudications, civil litigation, and understood the inner workings of the Federal Government. Upon searching I became familiar with Field Law.
Working with Orlagh O’Kelly I found she has the depth and expertise I specifically needed. Orlagh took the time to internalize my case and take action to immediately protect my interests. She consulted and weighed options in preparation for court matters and shared critical information with me. I never need to worry if she is prepared. She takes extraordinary steps to help ensure my rights are upheld. I know I am represented to the fullest extent possible. Orlagh takes a 360 approach in managing all the varied facets of my case and it’s not uncommon to receive emails from her on weekends and late in the evening regarding my case.
To this day Orlagh offers assistance to ensure not only my rights are protected but that I remain healthy during and after this process. It is a human side that helps me and my family through this difficult time. For instance, after being diagnosed with a serious psychological workplace injury, Orlagh continually shared information and resources to help me get medical attention."