Shirley Barton

B.G.S., J.D.

Associate

Practice Areas

Employment Law

Location

Calgary, Edmonton


Why Clients Choose Shirley Barton

Workplace problems can quickly become stressful, especially when your job, income, or professional reputation is on the line.

Shirley Barton helps Albertans understand their employment rights and make informed decisions about what to do next.

With a background in leadership, governance, and community engagement, Shirley brings a thoughtful and practical approach to employment law. She understands that clients are often looking for more than a legal answer — they want clear guidance and a path forward.

Known for her careful approach and clear communication, Shirley takes the time to understand each client’s situation, explain their options in straightforward language, and help them determine the best way to move forward.

Success Stories

$170K+ Wrongful
Dismissal Award

Shirley successfully represented a client with more than 20 years of service in sales and management in a wrongful dismissal claim before the Alberta Court of King’s Bench. The client was awarded more than $170,000 in damages after being terminated without cause and without reasonable notice.

16-Year Employee
With Medical Limitations

Shirley secured a significant settlement for a welder who was terminated without cause after nearly 16 years of service. The client’s medical conditions also limited his ability to find comparable work, making the outcome especially important.

Significant Settlement for
Terminated Supervisor

A significant settlement was secured for a client who was terminated without cause and without reasonable notice after nearly five years in a supervisory role. The result reflected the client’s years of service and the circumstances surrounding the termination.

About Shirley Barton

Shirley Barton is an Alberta employment lawyer and Associate at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

She represents employees and employers across Alberta on a range of workplace issues, providing practical legal advice tailored to the circumstances of each client.

Her background in leadership and governance brings an additional perspective to her employment law practice. Shirley understands the importance of effective communication, sound decision-making, and finding practical solutions to difficult workplace situations.

She is committed to making the legal process easier to understand and ensuring clients have the information they need to make confident decisions about their workplace rights.

Outside of the office, Shirley enjoys a variety of outdoor activies, including hiking, paddleboarding, skating, and skiing, as well as sewing, and turning produce from her garden into home-cooked meals and preserves for her family.

Education

Shirley earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Alberta.

During law school, she held several leadership positions, including President of the Christian Legal Fellowship Student Chapter, Co-President of the Law & Older Student Club, and Co-Editor and Secretary of the Alberta Law Review.

Before law school, Shirley earned a Bachelor of General Studies with distinction from Athabasca University, where she focused on leadership and governance.

Speak With Shirley Barton

If you're experiencing a workplace issue or lost your job,
Shirley is here for you and ready to get to work.

Contact our team today to discuss your situation.

Book Your Consultation