About McKenzie Legal Services
Ryan McDougall, Q.MED, PM, CLC, APR
I am Ryan McDougall, a mediator and paralegal with McKenzie Legal Services. I have worked in family law for the last 23 years, mediating for the last 12 years. I graduated from Red Deer College’s Legal Assistant Program in 2001, then from Athabasca University with a Bachelor of Professional Arts degree, majoring in Governance, Law & Management, then from Royal Roads University with a Master of Arts in Justice Studies. Working in a law firm for 20 years on divorce and family law files showed me there is a better way for families to figure out how to live separately. So here we are. McKenzie Legal Services is here to provide families with a smart alternative to fighting it out in Court and giving their power (and their money) away. I am passionate about saving families time, energy and money as they navigate through changes and I look forward to meeting new clients.
The Mediator
Ryan has spent 20 years working in law firms on family law files involving separation and divorce. It was costly and broke families down further than before they walked through the doors. She knew there was a better way. In 2012 Ryan completed her Conflict Dispute Resolution Certification with Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Alberta and has had a successful practice mediating separating families ever since. Ryan holds a Q.Med designation with the Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute of Alberta and Canada as well as a PM designation with Alberta Family Mediation Society and Family Mediation of Canada.
The Legal Coach
The vast majority of Ryan’s career has been spent dealing with clients who have, at one point in time or another, had to represent themselves in Court. A Legal Coach is there to meet with you regularly, discuss your matter and your goals and keep you focused and forward moving. With Ryan’s legal background, she is able to provide the legal information and translations relating to filing deadlines, court processes and documents needed to accomplish what you set as your goal. As your Legal Coach, Ryan will not be advising you what to do legally, but rather helping you determine what your ultimate goals are then support you in achieving them. Ryan is a member of the Legal Coaching Association.
The Paralegal
Ryan graduated from the Legal Assistant Diploma Program at Red Deer College in 2001 and has worked as a full time family law paralegal in law firms since 2001 through 2020. Ryan completed her Bachelor of Professional Arts Degree majoring in Governance, Law & Management and her Master’s Degree in Justice Studies. Ryan sits on the Alberta Association of Professional Paralegals Board of Directors. Ryan is a paralegal, not a lawyer, and will not advise you as to what to ask for in Court, what she believes to be in your best interest, or the likelihood of success. If you are needing or wanting legal advice and opinions, Ryan has a professional circle of lawyers who she trusts and respects and will provide you referrals for legal advice.
Sandra Meier, BA, ARP
Sandra has over 23 years of experience in the legal field and has focused her career on the preparation of Wills, Codicils, Powers of Attorney, Personal Directives, and Estate Administration.
She holds a Business Degree from King’s University College (1997), a Legal Assistant Diploma (2002), and a Post-Diploma Paralegal Certificate from Red Deer College (2024). Sandra spent 23 years with Dixon Law, where she focused on wills and estates, litigation, and office management.
Since 2014, Sandra has also worked independently as a paralegal, with a particular passion for estate matters. Her dedication to client service and deep knowledge of estate administration continue to guide her work. Sandra knows the importance of planning ahead and having peace of mind that your wishes will be followed and your family will be provided for. She also knows that making these plans can be emotion. Sandra works with each client in a caring manner; accommodating special requests when needed.
Outside the office, Sandra is married with three grown sons. She enjoys playing Scrabble, gardening, and growing cut flowers.
We focus on hope, helping and teamwork.
Consumer choice winner 2 years in a row
Our Vision
To be an integral part of a justice system where all Albertans can access cost-effective, professional, knowledgeable legal services to achieve just results.
Our Mission
We offer cost-effective legal support services with personalized attention to assist individuals and families with their legal requirements.
Why Choose Us?
As insured and registered members of the Alberta Association of Professional Paralegals, you can trust that we are committed to helping you navigate the family law justice system. With over 20 years of specialized experience in Alberta family law matters, we bring extensive knowledge and professionalism to every case. While we do not provide legal advice, we can connect you with trusted lawyers for legal consultations you may require. Our services are designed to be cost-effective compared to traditional legal representation, making it easier for you to access the help you need.
- Cost-Effective Support: We provide affordable paralegal services, helping you navigate the divorce process without the high costs of a traditional lawyer.
- Personalized Guidance: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific situation and goals.
- Compassion and Professionalism: We approach every client with care and respect, offering clear, empathetic support during a difficult time.