Karissa Kelln-Tootoosis

Karissa’s legal practice focuses on Indigenous real estate and economic development.

She has significant experience navigating the different legal regimes that govern Indigenous lands — including the leasing and development of reserve lands under the Indian Act, Land Code lands, and treaty settlement lands — and often assists clients with the Additions to Reserve process.

Karissa also regularly advises clients on corporate structuring, business entity formation, Limited Partnership and Joint Venture Agreements, and buying and selling businesses.

Clients appreciate Karissa’s strong relationship-building skills and legal knowledge.

Karissa grew up, and resides, on Treaty 6 lands (Saskatoon). She has a business degree and a law degree from the University of Saskatchewan, and has lived and practiced law in both British Columbia and Saskatchewan.

Outside of work, Karissa enjoys exploring beautiful Canada (especially the North) with her husband and pup, trying out new restaurants with family and friends, and has at least two books in her bag at all times.

Credentials

• Called to the Bar in SK, 2023
• Called to the Bar in BC, 2017
• Juris Doctor (JD), University of Saskatchewan, 2016
• Bachelor of Commerce (B. Comm.) (Great Distinction), University of Saskatchewan, 2011

Achievements

• Recognized in Best Lawyers Ones to Watch, Corporate Law, 2025 and 2026
• Past member of the CBA Women Lawyers Forum Executive Committee, Co-Chair of Events Planning Committee, 2022 – 2024
• Past member of the CBA Real Property (Vancouver) Section Executive Committee, 2022 – 2023
• Past member of the CBA WLF Mentorship Committee (2020 – 2022), and continues to participate in their mentorship program as a mentor to female lawyers