Mbaka Wadham is a Family Law Lawyer and Collaborative Practitioner. Her focus is on providing legal services to clients using a client-centred approach, ensuring transparency and fostering an environment where clients feels empowered as they navigate their legal matter. Mbaka has witnessed how incredibly challenging litigation can be for clients, so she became a Collaborative Practitioner to help clients resolve their family matters through a collaborative, non-adversarial process that focuses on the client’s interests and goals. Mbaka is solution-focused and works closely with clients to move their matter towards resolution in as efficient and effective manner as possible.

Mbaka’s areas of practice are Family and Divorce Law, including property and support issues, and Child Protection (CYFSA) matters. Mbaka also prepares Wills and Powers of Attorney, as well as providing Notary Services and Independent Legal Advice. Simply put, Mbaka provides legal services to clients at different stages of the life cycle of relationships, from inception to dissolution.

Mbaka’s approach to her legal work builds upon the skills she obtained while working in the social services sector. She began work in the social services sector after completing a Masters degree in Sociocultural Anthropology. She was involved in local and international research on HIV/AIDS and social determinants of health, and worked at an AIDS Service Organization where she engaged in extensive community development work. It was her work looking at the intersection of family violence, criminality and HIV/AIDS vulnerability which encouraged her to pursue a legal career.

Mbaka is a strong believer in “passing it forward” through her participation in mentorship opportunities. She is a proud mentor through the 1834 Fellowship offered by the 1834 Foundation, as well as Black Ladders.

Outside of work, Mbaka is an avid hiker, and a member of multiple sports teams. When not in nature or on a sports field, Mbaka can be found playing her guitar, or rehearsing for Reggae or Blues shows.

Languages: English, Spanish

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• Law Society of Ontario

• Canadian Bar Association

• Canadian Association of Black Lawyers

• Collaborative Divorce Toronto

• Hamilton Law Association

• International Association of Collaborative Practitioners

• Ontario Bar Association

• Toronto Lawyers’ Association