Victoria Family Lawyers You Can Count On

Swiftsure Law family lawyers in Victoria BC - logo

 Swiftsure Law is a boutique family law firm based in Victoria, British Columbia, dedicated to helping clients resolve disputes with fairness, dignity, and practical solutions. We understand that family law issues can be emotionally exhausting and legally overwhelming. Whether you’re separating, navigating child custody, dividing property, or dealing with a family emergency, our Victoria-based family lawyers are here to help. We provide clear legal guidance, effective advocacy, and genuine care — so you can focus on rebuilding your future.Our lawyers combine deep knowledge of BC family law with strategic insight to achieve lasting resolutions — in or out of court.  

We work with clients throughout Victoria, Langford, Saanich, the Cowichan Valley, and Vancouver Island, offering full-service representation in divorce, custody, support, property division, and appeals. We also work throughout the province of BC.

Our mission is simple: to guide you through difficult transitions with clarity and confidence.

How We Help Families Move Forward

Every family law case is unique — that’s why we tailor our approach to your situation and goals.

          We focus on:

  • Clear Communication: You’ll always know where your case stands and what your options are.

  • Resolution-Oriented Strategy: We aim to resolve disputes efficiently through negotiation or mediation before court becomes necessary.

  • Strong Advocacy: When litigation is required, we represent your interests assertively and effectively in both Provincial and Supreme Court.

  • Compassionate Guidance: We understand the personal impact of family law matters and approach every client with empathy and respect.

Lady justice, holding the scales indicating legal services.

Settlement Focused. Litigation Ready.

Our practice is grounded in thoughtful negotiation and strategic settlement — backed by strong courtroom experience. We prepare every case with litigation in mind, ensuring you are protected whether your matter resolves through agreement or requires court intervention.

Family Law Services

Family law

Comprehensive family law services in Victoria, BC, including child custody and parenting time, child and spousal support, property division, adoption, family violence and more. We help families resolve complex issues with clarity, care, and practical guidance.

Appeals

While it’s natural for people on the losing end of a judgement to feel like they’ve been slighted, there are legitimate situations where a judge, master, or arbitrator “got it wrong” based on the information they had available to them at the time.

Divorce & separation

Clear, compassionate legal advice through every stage of separation or divorce, including filing, negotiation, and final settlements—focused on achieving a resolution that protects your rights and future.ndex 

Mediation

A mediator is a neutral facilitator who builds consensus between parties and then documents their agreement. Separation agreements made at mediations are legally binding and when filed with the court, are enforceable like a court order. A mediator neither gives legal advice nor makes the decisions for you. Mediation is a confidential process where a decision is made by the parties instead of being imposed upon you.

At Swiftsure Law, we’re committed to helping every client — regardless of family structure, background, or circumstance — find clarity and resolution through personalized legal strategies.

What Our Clients Have to Say About Us

“John Nelson’s legal council was essential in winning my case. His assistance was unfaltering and sincere. Subsequent aid with any legal matter is always quickly and efficiently provided. I highly recommend him as legal council.”

“I have been assisted by John Nelson for years. Family court is the worst place on earth, and I wanted The assistance of someone who is knowledgeable and fierce. John is it”

“Honest, ethical and empathetic. This is a family led firm who are in it for the right reasons.”

 

“I cannot recommend Swiftsure law highly enough. From the moment I walked through their doors Danielle’s presence felt like a warm hug. They helped me navigate my lawsuit with dignity and support. I loved working with them and will be back with any additional needs that may arise. I have actively recommended them to my friends and family.”

 

“They were kind and supportive through a rough patch in my life, which I will always appreciate.”

 

“I can’t recommend Swiftsure Law highly enough. It’s an incredibly warm and friendly, yet at the same time, professional firm with experienced lawyers who go out of their way for their clients.”

 

Meet Our Family Lawyers

Headshot of John D. Nelson, Senior Lawyer at Swiftsure Law Firm

John D. Nelson (he/him) is the co-creator of the Swiftsure Law brand. He is a skilled legal strategist, uniquely suited for complex and contentious matters as his approach cuts through the chaos and helps everyone to focus on resolution. He is a powerful speaker, with hundreds of hours of court time and many successful judgments. John has a vast knowledge of Canadian Law and its interpretations, and he uses it to advocate for his clients.

John D. Nelson
Senior Lawyer

Adele DesBrisay (she/her) joined the Swiftsure Law team in the Spring of 2024. Adele received her Bachelor of Arts and Science in interdisciplinary environmental studies from McGill University in 2019 and her JD from the University of Victoria in 2023. She completed the first half of her articles with the Environmental Law Centre working on public interest environmental law files. This involved reports and memos in areas including administrative law, municipal law, constitutional law (including regarding jurisdiction and charter issues), competition law, and Indigenous and Aboriginal law.

Adele DesBrisay
Lawyer

A headshot of Prab Grewal, an articled student at Swiftsure Law

Prab K. Grewal (she/her) is originally from Abbotsford, B.C and obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of the Fraser Valley. After spending several years working at the Canada Revenue Agency, Prab received her Juris Doctorate from Thompson Rivers University where she received the Dean’s Course Prize in Tax Law. In her practice as a lawyer, Prab, is committed to achieving resolution for her client’s legal matters.

Prab K. Grewal
Lawyer

Serving Families Across Vancouver Island

Our lawyers are proud to serve communities throughout Victoria, Langford, Sidney, Sooke, Duncan, and beyond.

We understand the local courts, judges, and legal systems that affect your case — giving you an advantage grounded in regional experience.

Our office is conveniently located in downtown Victoria, with options for remote consultations by phone or video for clients throughout the Island and across BC.

Dallas Road beach in Victoria BC

Start With a Conversation

When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to listen. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation with a Victoria family lawyer who will take the time to understand your goals and help you move forward.

Book a personal consultation.

What can we help you with? *

Got a Family Law Question?

Visit our “Ask a Lawyer” Blog

Navigating family law can be confusing. Our Ask a Lawyer resource provides expert guidance on family law matters. Get clear, straightforward answers to your legal questions.

  • Get insights on family law topics
  • Understand your legal options
  • Receive expert-backed information

Frequently Asked Questions

 Our initial consultation fee is $500 plus tax. During this meeting, you’ll sit down with senior lawyer John D. Nelson to discuss your legal concerns, assess your situation, and receive guidance on your next steps toward resolution.

We offer comprehensive family law services, including divorce, parenting time and custody, child and spousal support, property division, and complex high-net-worth separations. See our full list of services here.

Yes. If you believe a family court decision was made in error or without proper consideration, our experienced team can assess whether an appeal is appropriate and help you navigate the appeals process effectively.

 Absolutely. We offer several alternative dispute resolution options, including mediation, collaborative law, and arbitration. These methods are private, often more cost-effective, and let you retain control over the outcome rather than letting a judge decide.

 Yes. Whether you are legally married or in a common-law relationship, we can help you understand your rights and responsibilities under BC’s Family Law Act.

We can help you enforce existing child support orders through court action or the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP). Don’t let non-payment go unchallenged — you and your child have legal rights.

 Relocation with children after separation is complex and often requires court approval. We can help you understand your rights and obligations and advocate for your position.

Your safety is our priority. We assist with obtaining emergency protection orders, restraining orders, and creating safety plans to protect you and your children.

Yes, for those who want to represent themselves but need some professional help, we provide unbundled legal services and coaching for court preparation and document review.