Alexander W. Ostheimer-Lebeau | Director & Lawyer
Founder of Home Counsel Legal Services (HCLS), Alexander is dedicated to reshaping the legal landscape with his unique blend of expertise in various legal fields. His commitment to integrating technology into legal services from the ground up has set a new standard for efficiency and client support.
Alexander’s background spans across multiple legal sectors. During his articles at a boutique law firm, he gained an in-depth understanding of the particularities of family law alongside a senior family law lawyer with over 25 years of experience.
His tenure as a Research Assistant at the University of Ottawa’s Centre for Law, Technology and Society further allowed him to explore the intersection of law and technology. While working in the private sector, Alexander’s leadership in customer relations and compliance was instrumental in protecting clients from fraudulent activities, demonstrating his dedication to client safety and service excellence.
Alexander’s international perspective is evidenced by his work with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, where he conducted pivotal legal research on crime and corruption, contributing to the development of tools which improved the verification process for compliance of global legal frameworks. Furthermore, while working as a legal consultant for the Bureau d’Assistance Juridique Internationale, he focused on complex legal tax mandates, offering solutions that resonated with a broad range of institutional and private sponsors.
Beyond his legal pursuits, Alexander’s personal interests involve a love for chess, playing the piano, and mountain biking.
Kyle Thompson | Lawyer
Kyle is a dedicated lawyer with a strong foundation in family and criminal law. Known for his calm, client-focused approach, he supports clients through some of life’s most difficult legal challenges with empathy, clarity, and strategic focus.
Kyle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice from Laurentian University and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Ottawa. He completed his articles at an Ottawa based law firm that focused on family and criminal law, where he appeared regularly in court, drafted parenting plans and separation agreements, developed bail plans, and supported clients through contested matters. His experience spans all levels of court in Ottawa and across Eastern Ontario.
Kyle’s legal practice is rooted in a strong belief in access to justice. He is experienced with providing effective, timely, and respectful legal support to clients from all backgrounds.
Before entering the legal profession, Kyle spent five years in the public sector, including at the Canada Revenue Agency’s Charities Directorate. There, he gained valuable experience in regulatory compliance and accountability, skills that now inform his thorough, detail-oriented approach to legal practice.
Outside of work, Kyle enjoys hiking, biking, and reading; activities that keep him grounded and inspired in both his personal and professional life.
Ccarah Au | Senior Law Clerk
Ccarah is an experienced Legal Clerk with nearly a decade of experience supporting legal professionals in family law, real estate law, corporate law and estate planning law. She provides essential assistance in legal research, document preparation, and case management, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in every aspect of her work.
After graduating from Seneca College's Law Clerk program in 2016, Ccarah went on to earn her Law B.A. from Carleton University in 2022. Her strong academic foundation, combined with hands-on experience, allows her to navigate complex legal matters and provide invaluable support to her team and clients.
Ccarah specializes in drafting and reviewing legal documents, managing real estate transactions, assisting with corporate filings, and supporting estate planning processes. She is committed to delivering high-quality legal support and ensuring a smooth experience for both clients and legal professionals.
She is also passionate about staying up to date with legal developments and continuously expanding her knowledge to better serve clients.
Matthew Patten | Student-at-Law
Matthew is currently pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) at the University of Ottawa, with a focus on developing skills in alternative dispute resolution.
He brings a strong background in environmental law and public service. As an Intelligence Analyst at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Matthew supported federal environmental enforcement efforts, applying his ability to research complex regulatory issues, synthesize findings into actionable insights, and problem-solve—skills that translate effectively to the practice of family law.
Matthew has also demonstrated leadership through his supervision of junior analysts and active involvement in student organizations, including the Space Law Society and the Environmental Law Student Association. His advancement to the semi-finals in the Arguendo Cup Moot Competition further highlights his oral advocacy and legal reasoning skills.
His professional experience and academic foundation have shaped his understanding of interpersonal dynamics, policy, and negotiation—critical elements in family law, where strong client relationships and clear communication are essential.
Matthew’s adaptability, intellectual curiosity, and client-focused approach equip him to support families with compassion, precision, and professionalism.
Legal Aid Certificates
Home Counsel Legal Services (HCLS) is currently accepting new Legal Aid clients for family and child protection law cases in the areas of Ottawa, Cornwall, Perth, Brockville and L'Orignal.