Our team
Litigation department
John D. Nelson
Senior Lawyer
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.
Raised in Victoria, BC, with an undergraduate degree in Political and Environmental Sciences from The University of Victoria, John obtained his Juris Doctorate from the Peter A. Allard School of Law in Vancouver, where he did an externship with the Provincial Court. John was called to the BC Bar in 2011 after articling with the Attorney General’s office. He spent many years working as a litigator in Vancouver, honing his skills both inside the courtroom and out. An active member of the Canadian Bar Association as well as the BC Bar Association, John is constantly striving to learn and grow through professional and personal learning opportunities. He is particularly proud to mentor his articled students and works closely with legal training programs.
John is dedicated to the quest for justice on behalf of his clients. Navigating an often-difficult legal system he guides his clients through the maelstrom until they achieve resolution and can move on with their lives from a position of strength.
In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and four children. He is an avid fly fisherman and a life-long environmentalist. John is a passionate advocate for local families.
Stephanie Weidmann
Associate 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.
She has worked with leading scholars on the issue of Trans Legal Rights, has published an article, and assisted the guest editor of a special issue of the Canadian Journal of Law and Society on legal issues facing Trans folks in Canada. She is the recipient of the Grace McDonell Scholarship for her commitment to enhancing the diversity of Canadian society. Stephanie’s sense of humour and vibrant personality are a pleasure to work with. She is a tenacious and intelligent advocate and shines in the courtroom while also maintaining a gentle touch for negotiation.
In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys theatre, good books, knitting, and time with her friends and family.
Kellisha Calliste
Paralegal
Kellisha comes to us from Toronto, Ontario, where she has worked as a Paralegal for 5 years. She obtained her professional certification from Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning in 2012, along with an Honours Degree in Criminology with a Minor in Psychology from York University in 2019.
Kellisha is passionate about helping families achieve a resolution to their family law legal matters. Her strong family ties and commitment to excellence in law are what give Kellisha her unique perspective on client experience.
As John Nelson’s Paralegal, Kellisha is looking forward to supporting Swiftsure Clients through the complex world of family law. Kellisha enjoys time outdoors with friends and is looking forward to exploring beautiful Vancouver Island in the coming months.
Jocelyn Marais
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 is focused on document and file management. She keeps us all organized and all the essential documents carefully archived and at our fingertips.
In her spare time, Jocelyn enjoys spending time with her husband and extended family as well as exploring our beautiful province.
Administration department
Danielle L.R. Nelson
Office Manager
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.
Married to our senior lawyer and a proud mother of four, she brings a unique perspective to our team. Danielle is passionate about local BC families and she works tirelessly to ensure that Swiftsure Law meets the goal of effectively helping its clients navigate the legal system to achieve resolution.
When she is not in the office, you can find Danielle reading a good novel or playing with her children.
Our services
Family law
Swiftsure Law in Victoria has a proven track record of achieving positive results for its clients both inside and outside of the courtroom. Careful planning and a crafted strategic presentation win the day.
Divorce & separation
A separation agreement is a legally-binding document that is filed with, and fully enforceable by, the court. While you may be motivated to resolve your divorce or separation quickly, agreeing to something that hurts you can have costs that far outweigh the benefits of a speedy resolution.
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.
