Attorney Malan
Jessica A. Malan, Esq., is the founder and principal attorney of Cold Peak Legal, a litigation-focused law firm based in Fairbanks, Alaska. Licensed in Alaska and Arizona and admitted to practice before the U.S. Tax Court, Jess represents clients in complex civil matters where the stakes—and the details—matter. Her practice centers on high-stakes litigation, insurance disputes, business conflicts, and other challenging legal problems that require careful strategy and relentless advocacy. In addition to litigation, Jess also provides estate planning services, helping individuals and families create clear, practical plans to protect their assets and provide for future generations.
Jess brings a practical, inside-out understanding of litigation to every case she handles. While attending law school, she worked as a litigation paralegal and later a law clerk, gaining hands-on experience with discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation long before becoming an attorney. That foundation shaped her detail-oriented approach and her ability to quickly identify the facts and legal strategies that matter most in complex cases.
Jessica lives in Fairbanks, Alaska, with her family, two chihuahuas, and two cats. She enjoys baking, houseplants, and traveling, but her favorite Alaskan pastime is hiking the trails with her family and filling baskets with wild berries.
Education:
Boston University School of Law - Master of Laws (Tax) - Candidate
Mitchell Hamline School of Law - Juris Doctor, Class of 2023
University of Alaska Fairbanks - Master of Business Administration (MBA), Class of 2021
University of Alaska Fairbanks - Bachelor of Arts, Class of 2019
Membership:
Alaska Bar Association, Admitted 2024
Federal District of Alaska, Admitted 2024
Arizona Bar Association, Admitted 2025
Maricopa County Bar Association, Admitted 2025
Federal District of Arizona, Admitted 2025
Washington Bar Association, Pending Admission
U.S. Tax Court, Admitted 2025
Alexis Sullivan
Paralegal
Alexis Sullivan joined Cold Peak Legal in July 2025, bringing with her a strong foundation in legal support and client service. She began her legal career in October 2022 as a legal assistant at CSG, Inc., a respected law firm in Fairbanks, Alaska, where she quickly earned a reputation for her intelligence, reliability, and drive.At Cold Peak Legal, Alexis plays an integral role in supporting litigation, estate planning, and transactional matters. She is deeply committed to client care and approaches each case with professionalism, empathy, and attention to detail. Whether managing deadlines or assisting with complex filings, Alexis is a highly capable and dedicated member of the team.
As an active Alaskan, Alexis enjoys spending time with her children and her cat, and takes full advantage of all things Fairbanks—from summer hikes to winter festivals. Her strong work ethic and local roots make her an invaluable resource to both clients and colleagues alike, allowing her to provide understanding and support for clients facing Interior Alaska’s unique legal challenges.
Sylvia Larson
Paralegal
Sylvia Larson is a seasoned litigation paralegal known for her sharp attention to detail, strong case management skills, and ability to keep complex matters moving efficiently from start to finish. She brings several years of hands-on experience supporting both criminal prosecutions and high-stakes civil litigation, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the litigation process from investigation through trial preparation.
Sylvia began her legal career in the District Attorney’s Office, where she quickly advanced from law office assistant to paralegal while supporting criminal prosecutors in demanding, fast-paced cases. She later transitioned into civil litigation, gaining several years of experience working on complex matters at local law firms CSG and CPTT, where she supported attorneys handling medical malpractice, workers’ compensation, and other civil disputes. At Cold Peak Legal, Sylvia focuses almost exclusively on high-stakes civil litigation. She works closely with attorneys and clients to manage discovery, draft pleadings, coordinate expert witnesses, and keep complex cases organized and moving forward efficiently under Alaska’s civil procedural rules
Originally from Germany, Sylvia completed formal paralegal training there before moving to Alaska with the military. What began as a temporary assignment quickly became home. She is currently pursuing a B.A. in History at the University of Alaska Fairbanks while continuing to expand her litigation experience.
Clients and colleagues alike appreciate Sylvia’s approachable personality, reliability, and calm professionalism under pressure. She has a natural ability to connect with clients while maintaining the precision and organization required in complex litigation.
Outside the office, Sylvia enjoys making the most of Alaska’s outdoors—camping, traveling, and spending time with her husband, their two children, and their two dogs.