John D. Nelson 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

Stephanie A. Weidmann joined the Swiftsure Law legal team in the summer of 2020 as John D. Nelson’s articled student and is now an Associate Lawyer. With a Bachelor of Communications from Mount Royal University and a Juris Doctorate from Thompson Rivers University, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Swiftsure Law legal team.

Stephanie Weidmann
Associate Lawyer

Ray is a senior lawyer who was called to the BC Bar in 1998. He hails from Edmonton, Alberta originally. He is a graduate of UVic Law and achieved a Bachelor of Arts in Pacific and Asian studies. He lived and worked in Japan before Law school but decided to get his Law degree and returned to B.C. He has practice in both family and criminal law. He has successfully represented 100s of clients in all levels of Court in B.C., Alberta and the Yukon. Ray is a devoted husband, father and grandfather who enjoys spending time with his family when he isn’t busy fiercely defending his clients’ interests.

Raymond G. Dieno
Associate 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
Articled Student

Prab Grewal 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.

Prab Grewal
Articled Student

Jocelyn Marais is originally from the mainland and is now proud to call Victoria home. With her Legal Administrative Assistant Certificate from Camosun College, a degree in English and History from the University of Victoria, and her Paralegal Certification from Capilano University, she is a valuable asset to the Swiftsure Law legal team.

Jocelyn Marais
Paralegal

Christine Johnston received her Paralegal Diploma through CDI College all while raising her 2 young children. Christine has experience working with ICBC claims and personal injuries, wills and estates, and civil litigation. Christine’s background in social services gives her a dynamic view on the importance of family.

Christine Johnston
Paralegal

Danielle L.R. Nelson is the co-creator of the Swiftsure Law brand. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Vancouver Island, Danielle has a broad range of experience and expertise. A dedicated entrepreneur, Danielle has a strong background in business, accounting, planning, and human resources. She is keenly focused on client care and business management. A skilled communicator and editor, Danielle uses her eye for detail to ensure all Swiftsure documents meet exacting standards.

Danielle L.R. Nelson
Office Manager

Maureen Ilagan is originally from the Philippines, where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Her work experience in the UAE spans more than a decade, with a particular emphasis on administrative support, executive assistance, and travel coordination and management. She relocated to Victoria as an international student at the University of Victoria, where she completed her two-year program in Business Administration and earned Professional Development Certificates in Business Communication and Administrative Technology.

Maureen Ilagan
Receptionist/Administrative Assistant