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Guiding families forward with experience, compassion and collaborative solutions.

Our Team

Mackenzie J. Dean

Mackenzie Dean, family lawyer in Hamilton

Mackenzie Dean is the founder and principal lawyer at Dean Law, a boutique family law firm based in Hamilton, Ontario.

She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba and a joint Juris Doctor and Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. Since her call to the bar in 2017, Mackenzie has dedicated her career to family law, beginning at a respected boutique practice before launching Dean Law.

Mackenzie brings extensive experience in all areas of family law, including parenting, support, property, and adoption matters. She has appeared before all levels of court in Ontario, including the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Appeal, and regularly represents clients in mediations and arbitrations.

She is proud to be empaneled with the Office of the Children’s Lawyer and has been recognized in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada for her excellence in family law advocacy. Mackenzie is a member of the Advocates Society and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Ontario Chapter.

Beyond her legal practice, Mackenzie is deeply engaged in the legal community. She serves as President of the Hamilton Lawyers’ Club and is a proud member of the Hamilton Law Association History Subcommittee, where she contributes to preserving and celebrating the region’s legal heritage.

Cory Mattina

Cory Mattina, a family lawyer in Hamilton

Cory Mattina is an Associate at Dean Law, where he brings a thoughtful and strategic approach to family law matters.

Cory earned both his Honours Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from McMaster University, followed by his Juris Doctor from the University of Windsor. Since his call to the bar in 2023, he has focused on family law, assisting clients with clarity, compassion, and a strong command of the legal process.

While at Windsor Law, Cory was awarded the Dorothy Waddicor Memorial Award in Dispute Resolution, recognizing his skill in resolving complex legal issues with diplomacy and precision. He is currently pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) at Osgoode Hall Law School, specializing in Dispute Resolution, further deepening his expertise in negotiation and conflict resolution.

In addition to his legal work, Cory has served as a reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces since 2013.

Cory is an active member of the Hamilton Law Association and the Hamilton Lawyers’ Club, and is proud to contribute to the local legal community.

Nicole Pettigrew

Nicole Pettigrew, law clerk in Hamilton

Nicole is a dedicated and highly capable Family Law Clerk at Dean Law, where she plays a key role in ensuring that client matters are handled with care, efficiency, and professionalism.

Originally from Mississauga, Nicole has proudly called Hamilton home for the past eight years. She graduated with honours from Mohawk College, earning her Paralegal Diploma, and joined Dean Law in early 2024. Since then, she has become a trusted point of contact for clients navigating the complexities of family law.

Nicole is known for her organized approach, attention to detail, and genuine commitment to helping clients feel supported throughout their legal journey. She works closely with Mackenzie and Cory to ensure that every file progresses smoothly and that clients receive timely updates and clear communication.

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