Each year, the AJEFO, the Association des juristes d’expression française de l’Ontario, awards the Ordre du mérite to individuals whose contributions have advanced French-language legal services, supported the development of French common law, and demonstrated exceptional dedication to access to justice in Ontario’s Francophone community.
A proud Franco-Ontarian originally from Cornwall, Ontario, Martel graduated from the French Common Law Program in 2011 and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2012. She began her legal career as a law clerk at the Federal Court of Canada.
Guided by values of justice, equity and service, Martel quickly distinguished herself as a visionary leader committed to using her legal expertise for the public good. In 2014, at just 24 years old, she became Executive Director of AJEFO during a period of significant organizational growth. Under her leadership, the organization expanded the reach and impact of its services, notably through the creation of the Centre d’information juridique de l’Ontario and the development of the Jurisource and CliquezJustice platforms.
Over her eight years at AJEFO, Martel developed a deep passion for management and access to justice in French. She worked closely with nearly one hundred partners across the justice sector to strengthen high-quality French-language services, advocate for members’ interests, and help educate the public about their legal rights and responsibilities.
Recognized for her collaborative and generous leadership style, Martel is known for advancing initiatives with rigour, pragmatism and a clear understanding of the needs of both legal professionals and the communities they serve. Her innovative spirit and professional courage have also earned recognition from her peers, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the prestigious Bastarache-Charron Award.
Since June 2022, Martel has served as Executive Director of the Vanier Community Service Centre, where she continues her commitment to access to justice through the Ottawa Francophone Legal Clinic while also leading initiatives related to social pediatrics, food insecurity, employment, housing and newcomer integration.
Deeply engaged in her community, Martel has served since 2023 on the Federal Judicial Advisory Committee and was previously a member of the Montfort Hospital Board of Directors from 2016 to 2022. An experienced lawyer, mentor, trainer and speaker, she remains dedicated to supporting the next generation of legal professionals.
Through this distinction, AJEFO highlighted Martel’s exceptional contributions, inspiring leadership and unwavering dedication to advancing justice in French for Franco-Ontarian communities.
The prestigious honour will be presented during the gala of AJEFO’s 46th Annual Conference on June 6 in Burlington, Ontario.
Congratulations Andrée-Anne Martel on this well-deserved recognition!