Brunelle Lewis
Lawyer & Workplace Investigator
Expertise
- Workplace investigations
- Employer and employee advisory services
- Employment, labour and human rights litigation
- Preparation, negotiation and review of employment agreements
PhilosophyIn a word: Equity
Brunelle believes that equity is essential to creating safe and respectful workplaces where people can do their best work. Brunelle brings a balanced and diligent approach to every matter she handles. She understands that workplace issues are complex and can significantly affect individuals and employers in different ways. As a workplace investigator, Brunelle is committed to conducting investigations that are fair, transparent, and grounded in a respect for all participants. As an employment lawyer, Brunelle serves as a strategic partner to employers, helping them to navigate conflict, manage risks, and strengthen trust with their people.
B.A. Hons, Law: Carleton University, J.D.: Osgoode Hall Law School, York University. Practicing law in Ontario since 2021.
Accomplishments
Brunelle is building her practice in human resource law and workplace investigations. Brunelle comes to Bernardi Human Resource Law with an extensive background in corporate immigration law, where she gained relevant skills in client advisory, risk management, compliance, and legal writing. Brunelle completed her articles at a prominent labour law firm in Toronto. During law school, Brunelle specialized in labour and employment law and completed an intensive program in the Workers’ Rights division at the Parkdale Community Legal Clinic.
Backstory
Growing up, Brunelle witnessed her immigrant parents struggle to make ends meet while working labour-intensive jobs under harsh, and at times, abusive, conditions. Even as a young child, Brunelle knew that her parents deserved respect and fairness in the workplace. Brunelle was inspired by her parents’ experiences to pursue a legal career. She was drawn to the profession by a belief in the law’s ability to create meaningful change for workers like her parents.
An interesting tidbit
Brunelle completed the 52-Hike Challenge: 52 hikes in 52 weeks. As part of the challenge, she went on a two-week car-camping and hiking trip with her four-month-old puppy, Samosa. Together, they hiked through four provincial and national parks and summited the Top of the Giant in Thunder Bay, although Samosa spent much of that hike snoozing in Brunelle’s backpack carrier.
