Our Firm’s History
The Strategic Criminal Defence story is one of over +15 years of collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence in criminal defence law.
Expansion Into British Columbia
As Strategic Criminal Defence continued its growth beyond Alberta, the firm expanded into British Columbia, bringing its collaborative and strategic model of criminal defence to Vancouver Island.
The firm’s first presence in Victoria was established in 2018, when Elizabeth Wiesenberger, a Calgary-trained lawyer with the firm who was raised on Vancouver Island, returned home with the goal of serving her local community. This marked the firm’s initial step toward building a long-term presence in the region.
Early Transition and Temporary Closure
Shortly after opening the Victoria office, Elizabeth accepted a position with the Crown Prosecutor’s Office, resulting in a temporary closure of the firm’s physical presence on Vancouver Island.
While brief, this initial expansion confirmed both the viability of the Victoria market and the strong demand for high-level criminal defence services in the region.
Maintaining a Presence Through Strategic Collaboration
In 2019, Michael Oykhman became a licensed member of the Law Society of British Columbia, allowing the firm to continue assisting clients in the province.
During this period, Michael worked in collaboration with Amelia Street Lawyers, maintaining an active presence in British Columbia while evaluating the long-term structure of a dedicated Victoria office.
However, the increasing demand for representation on Vancouver Island—and the practical challenges of managing files between Calgary and Victoria—made it clear that a permanent, locally based office was necessary.
Delayed Re-Launch During COVID-19
Plans to re-establish the Victoria office were well underway when the COVID-19 pandemic intervened, delaying the firm’s expansion efforts for several years.
Despite this pause, the firm continued to build momentum in the region, maintaining client relationships and reinforcing its reputation for strategic, results-driven advocacy.
Re-Establishing a Permanent Presence
In 2023, Strategic Criminal Defence officially re-opened its Victoria office, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s continued national expansion.
This re-launch was driven in part by Julia Hunter, a Calgary-based lawyer with the firm who had previously lived on Vancouver Island and expressed a strong interest in returning to the region. Drawing on her connection to the Island and her experience within the firm, Julia helped establish a renewed and strengthened local presence.
Growth, Recognition, and Team Expansion
Since re-opening, the Victoria office has experienced rapid growth in both demand and reputation, quickly establishing itself as a leading criminal defence presence on Vancouver Island.
The office has been recognized with:
- Consumer Choice Award – Victoria
- ThreeBestRated® DUI Lawyers – Victoria
In response to increasing demand, the firm has expanded its Victoria team with the addition of Roisin Neary, further strengthening its ability to deliver high-quality work product and exceptional client service.
Continuing Growth and Strategic Focus
Today, the Victoria office forms an integral part of Strategic Criminal Defence’s multi-jurisdictional practice, combining:
- Local knowledge of Vancouver Island courts and communities
- With the resources, experience, and strategic depth of a national firm
With sustained demand and an expanding team, the firm expects to continue growing its presence in Victoria and across British Columbia, while maintaining its core commitment to strategic, client-focused criminal defence.
