Laura Kanaan

Laura is a family lawyer, mediator, and collaborative lawyer, currently serving as the CEO of MDW Law. MDW Law has established itself as a leader and innovator in handling complex cases. Since 2021, Laura has led this innovative group, developing a client-focused model for practicing law in a team-based environment.

Laura enjoys solving complex problems and takes a results-oriented approach, striving to generate unique, cost-effective solutions. She uses alternative dispute resolutions to help clients resolve matters efficiently without court involvement. When litigation is necessary, Laura represents clients effectively, particularly in high-conflict cases. She has practiced law in multiple jurisdictions, appearing before the Supreme Court and Provincial Courts of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, as well as the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission.

Laura has an outstanding track record in community and pro bono work. She is a Member of the Professional Standards Committee for the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Family Law Standards. Heavily involved in the Canadian Bar Association, Laura has served on the Executive of the CBA NS Family Section in roles including Secretary, Vice Chair, and Chair. As the past President and Secretary of the NS Association of Collaborative Law Professionals, she has demonstrated her commitment to advancing alternative dispute resolution. She facilitated the Parents’ Information Program at the NS Supreme Court (Family Division) for several years.
Laura co-chaired the Women’s Lawyer Forum for CBA NS, winning the Section Excellence Award for 2023-24, and continues as co-chair for the upcoming 2024-2025 year. She is a guest lecturer at the Schulich School of Law in the Family Law Course. As a Guest Facilitator for the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society Skills Course, she focused on self-represented litigants and ADR/Collaborative Family Law. Her contributions to the Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals include co-presenting on family law and bankruptcy in 2023.

Laura is passionate about evolving the practice of law. Over the next ten years, she envisions MDW having a presence across Canada, utilizing innovative software to support their team-based approach to file execution. MDW strives to be the top thinkers in family law and personal injury, aiming to excel not only in the law but also in how the law is practiced.

A major component of Laura’s role is overseeing the professional development of all MDW team members. She mentors and coaches the firm’s legal professionals, from summer students and article clerks to paralegals and associates, constantly seeking ways to expedite training and development. Passionate about shaping the growth of women in the legal profession, she ensures that every team member is supported.

LL.B.
Dalhousie Law School, 2009

B.A.
Saint Mary’s University, 2006