Williams HR Law LLP

Jessica Dunn Burnside

Articling Student
(she/her)

Jessica is an articling student at Williams HR Law LLP, where she assists with a broad range of management-side labour, employment, and human rights law matters, as well as the firm’s workplace investigation practice.

Jessica previously summered with the firm, gaining experience in employment standards, workplace policies and agreements, terminations, human rights matters, and workplace investigations. She is committed to developing practical, thoughtful approaches to workplace issues that consider the unique needs of employers.

Jessica graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University. During law school, she served as Director of Diversity and Inclusion for the Osgoode Women’s Network and participated in the Anti-Discrimination Intensive Program, completing a placement with the Human Rights Legal Support Centre. Prior to law school, Jessica earned a Master of Arts in Labour Studies and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, specializing in Public Law and Judicial Studies, from McMaster University.

Outside of her legal work, Jessica is actively involved in advocacy and mentorship initiatives supporting individuals affected by childhood cancer. Drawing on her own experience as a childhood cancer survivor, she works with patients and their families to help them navigate the challenges associated with childhood cancer and its treatment. She also serves on various committees and initiatives with SickKids, the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, and Mount Sinai Hospital focused on improving patient experiences and addressing the long-term effects of childhood cancer treatments.

In her spare time, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and their Australian Labradoodle, Cayenne. She also enjoys exploring new restaurants and avidly supporting her Kansas City Chiefs and Toronto Blue Jays.