J. Graham Martinelli
Graham Martinelli is a Calgary-based counsel practising in commercial litigation, real estate disputes, and insurance law. He brings over a decade of courtroom and advisory experience to businesses navigating high-stakes disputes, with a reputation for clear strategic thinking and efficient resolution.
Graham’s commercial real estate practice covers the full spectrum of property-related disputes: landlord and tenant conflicts, lease enforcement, commercial lease terminations, early departure claims, and real estate transaction disputes including purchase and sale disagreements, title issues, and misrepresentation claims. He has particular depth in advising landlords on rights enforcement, unpaid rent recovery, and lease remediation across office, retail, and industrial properties.
His insurance litigation practice has encompassed complex defence matters on behalf of insurers and insureds alike, including all manner of property damage disputes, professional liability defence, personal injury defence, and claims management strategy. Graham understands the commercial pressures that drive insurance decisions and works closely with client teams to develop tailored litigation strategy.
Graham also advises clients on Alberta privacy law, including compliance obligations under PIPA, breach notification requirements, and dispute resolution arising from data incidents. His background in emerging technology allows him to bridge the gap between legal exposure and practical business operations.
A recognised practitioner in alternative dispute resolution, Graham regularly employs negotiation, mediation, and arbitration to reach faster, more cost-effective outcomes — particularly for mid-sized businesses where litigation costs must be weighed carefully against commercial relationships.
Education
Juris Doctorate, University of Calgary, 2014
Bachelor of Arts (Honours), History; Political Science, Queen’s University, 2008
Professional Affiliations
Member, Law Society of Alberta
Member, Canadian Bar Association
Best Lawyers™: Ones To Watch in Canada — Recognized in Corporate and Commercial Litigation and Personal Injury Litigation (2025, 2026)
J. Graham Martinelli
Counsel
403.260.1591
graham.martinelli@caronpartners.com