Ashley Kurysh
Self-Advocacy Consultant / Community Advocate
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About
Detail-oriented and highly organized professional with a BA Honours in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Law and Justice Studies, complemented by extensive practical experience working with legal, administrative, community, and client-facing matters. Although my professional background has not been within a traditional law firm, I bring a strong understanding of legal systems, documentation, procedural requirements, confidentiality, professional communication, research, and deadline-driven work. Known for being proactive, dependable, analytical, and exceptionally organized, with the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
Experienced communicating with diverse clients and community members, handling sensitive information, conducting research, preparing documentation, and navigating complex systems. Eager to bring this foundation into a boutique law-firm environment and develop long-term expertise in legal administration.
Experience
Self-Advocacy Consultant / Community Advocate at Talk Safe To Me (2024-01 – Present)
Provide structured support to individuals navigating complex legal, administrative, and justice-system situations, with an emphasis on organization, communication, documentation, and coaching informed self-advocacy.
- Assist individuals in understanding and organizing information related to legal and administrative matters.
- Review correspondence, notices, documentation, and procedural information for accuracy and completeness.
- Help clients organize timelines, supporting documentation, questions, and relevant information for legal and administrative processes.
- Conduct legislation, policy, and procedural research to help clients better understand available processes and requirements.
- Maintain organized records and documentation while exercising discretion when working with sensitive personal information.
- Communicate complex information in clear, professional, and accessible language.
- Manage multiple client matters, priorities, appointments, and follow-up requirements simultaneously.
- Draft professional correspondence and supporting documentation.
- Maintain detailed records and track important dates, outstanding information, and next steps.
- Recognize the importance of staying within appropriate professional boundaries and distinguishing self-advocacy support from legal representation.
Gladue Report Writer at Self-employed (2022-01 – Present)
- Draft comprehensive, clear, and objective reports outlining the gathered history and systemic context.
- Propose realistic, non-custodial sentencing options and personalized restorative justice or healing plans.
- Collaborate professionally with defense counsel, Crown attorneys, and court officials while maintaining independence as a neutral party.
- Conduct case management and administration.
- Manage active caseloads and respect strict court-ordered deadlines.
- Connect clients with available Indigenous and non-Indigenous community resources and support services.
- Maintain secure, encrypted, and confidential record-keeping systems for all client files
Frontline Service (High-Pressure Environments) at Red Zone | Best Western Lounge | Holiday Inn
- Provided customer service in busy hospitality environments requiring professionalism, discretion, accuracy, and multitasking.
- Served diverse clientele while maintaining a calm and professional approach under pressure.
- Assisted with administrative and operational responsibilities, including inventory, cash handling, scheduling coordination, and maintaining organized work areas.
- Developed strong interpersonal communication and conflict-resolution skills.
- Worked effectively as part of multidisciplinary teams and adapted quickly to changing priorities.
Education
BA Honours in Sociology, Minor: Criminal Law and Justice Studies – University of Saskatchewan
