Allison Lendor
Despite a very active litigation practice, Allison only recommends to her clients that they go to court when she believes it is absolutely necessary. Allison knows when your case requires an out-of-court solution and can assist you as your lawyer in negotiating a separation agreement or attending mediation.
As an effective court advocate, what sets Allison apart is her strategic insight into the role that the Office of the Children’s Lawyer might play in your case since she maintains an active practice representing children in parenting disputes.
When she is not in the office, Allison enjoys spending time with her family and travelling with them. Allison is a ‘foodie,’ enjoys cooking, baking and relishes any chance she gets to sample international cuisine.
Education
York University, BA.
University of Ottawa, LLB.
Memberships
Law Society of Ontario
County of Carleton Law Association
Canadian Bar Association
John Guest
John has been practicing exclusively in family law ever since he opened his own practice, Guest Law, in 2016. In late 2017, he joined Allison Lendor, to form Lendor & Guest LLP.
John’s approach to family law is settlement-oriented. He enjoys working for clients who try to preserve as much of the family’s resources as possible and who strive for a solution that works for everyone.
While John treats court as a last resort, he has an active litigation practice since he accepts referrals from lawyers who are unable to resolve their family law files outside of court.
In court, John likes being well prepared and enjoys carefully analyzing all of his client’s options before proceeding with a step.
John is pleased to have been invited to present at both the 26th and 28th Annual Institute of Family Law, where he spoke about procedure, evidence and affidavit drafting.
John enjoys an eclectic mix of hobbies, including making food products from scratch (such as hot sauce and chocolate) playing strategy games, and spending time with his young family.
Education
B.A. in Legal Studies from Carleton University
J.D. University of Ottawa (2014)
Memberships
Law Society of Ontario
County of Carleton Law Association
Practice Panel for Collaborative Practice Ottawa
Jessica Margeit Pineda
Jessica strongly believes in achieving favourable solutions for her clients both inside and outside the courtroom. She confidently navigates the complexities of family law, including contentious issues such as divorce, child custody and access matters, property and support disputes, separation agreements, and domestic violence cases.
Jessica obtained both her Bachelor of Social Sciences and her J.D. from the University of Ottawa in 2017. After finishing her studies, Jessica worked at a national law firm in Ottawa before starting her own practice in 2019. She has since joined Lendor & Guest LLP to practice exclusively in the area of Family Law.
Jessica enjoys spending time with family, playing board games and being outdoors. She especially likes hiking in Gatineau Park in the warmer months and travelling to sunny destinations in the winter.
Education
University of Ottawa, B. Soc. Sc
University of Ottawa, J.D.
Education
Law Society of Ontario
County of Carleton Law Association
Samantha Braun
Samantha has been committed to community involvement and helping others throughout her academic journey. In law school, she served as the Vice President of Professional Development for the Family Law Students’ Association. Samantha also co-founded of the Ottawa Chapter of The Pampered Pillowcase, a compassionate initiative dedicated to brightening the lives of women in domestic violence shelters in the Ottawa community.
When she is not in the office, Samantha enjoys spending time with her family and friends, designing custom cakes for all occasions, and staying active at the gym.
Education
Carleton University, BA Combined Honours in English and History
Carleton University, Honours degree in Psychology (Concentration in Developmental Psychology), High Distinction
University of Ottawa, JD (expected May 2025)
Memberships
The Advocates Society, Affiliate Member
County of Carleton Law Association
Canadian Bar Association
Ontario Bar Association
Jhorgia Ponferrada
With a diverse professional background, Jhorgia brings her commitment to service into family law. She began her legal career as a Paralegal/Legal Assistant for a local government in the Philippines. Her passion for advocacy developed during her undergraduate studies, where she served as President of her program’s student body. After completing her degree in Aeronautics, she decided to pursue her growing interest in the legal field.
In 2023, Jhorgia completed her Paralegal Graduate Certificate at Centennial College, building on the experience she gained assisting with administrative cases in her previous role. She also completed a co-op placement in criminal law in Toronto. Now, under the mentorship of experienced and dynamic lawyers, Jhorgia is expanding her knowledge in family law with a dedication to deepening her understanding in this area and serving clients with compassion and professionalism.
Jhorgia is passionate about assisting both clients and lawyers. She can commission client documents and helps in the preparation of financial statements and disclosures.
Outside of work, Jhorgia enjoys exploring Ontario’s scenic landscapes and discovering new food spots around the city. While she misses surfing in the ocean, she embraces the rich experiences her new home offers.
Education
BS Air Transportation, 2019
Paralegal Ontario Graduate Certificate, 2023
