Our Team
Our team combines strategic advocacy with genuine care, guiding clients through separation, parenting arrangements, support, and complex financial matters. Based in Oakville and serving clients across the GTA, we focus exclusively on family law and private mediation.
Managing Partners
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Founder & Managing PartnerVincenzo is the founder and managing partner of Ruso & Associates, where he advises clients on complex family law matters — including separation and divorce, parenting disputes, support, and high-value property division.
He began his legal career in criminal defence, articling at a prominent Bay Street firm under the mentorship of John Rosen. That foundation shaped an approach to advocacy that is disciplined, strategic, and clear-eyed about risk. He later transitioned into family law, where he has spent over fifteen years building a practice focused on resolving complex, high-conflict disputes with precision and control.
Vincenzo has developed particular strength in matters involving business owners, complex compensation structures, and sophisticated financial issues — work that routinely requires careful coordination across legal, financial, and personal dimensions.
He also leads the firm's mediation practice, bringing structured, high-level dispute resolution to complex family law matters. A Harvard-trained mediator through the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School, Vincenzo works with parties and counsel to move beyond positional impasse toward informed, durable agreements. This aspect of his practice is regularly engaged in high-conflict and high-stakes matters where efficient, principled resolution is essential.
Vincenzo's practice is defined by responsiveness, discretion, and disciplined judgment. He works closely with clients to understand their priorities, manage risk, and bring clarity to situations that are often legally and emotionally complex.
Outside of work, Vincenzo is an avid skier, stays active year-round, and has a genuine appreciation for fine wine.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2010
Harvard Mediation Intensive, Program on Negotiation, Harvard Law School, 2025
Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of Ottawa, 2008
Specialized Honours Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Global Political Economy, York University, 2003
Community
Former Member, Policy Planning Committee (Provincial Government)
Additional Languages
Italian
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Managing PartnerLaura Oliver has practiced family law exclusively since her call to the Bar of Ontario in 1997. As a senior lawyer and managing partner at Ruso & Associates, she brings nearly three decades of experience in complex financial and parenting matters, settlement negotiation, and trial and appellate advocacy.
Laura began her career at the boutique family law firm Harper Jaskot, where she developed early expertise in high‑conflict separation and divorce. She founded her own practice in Oakville in 2000, combining rigorous advocacy with a practical, resolution‑driven approach that continues to anchor her work.
In addition to her litigation practice, Laura is deeply engaged in alternative dispute resolution. She is a Certified Collaborative Professional, a Certified Divorce Specialist, and holds advanced credentials in Domestic Violence Risk Assessment and Management as well as certification as a User of the Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment (ODARA). She has served as a Lead Dispute Resolution Officer in the Superior Court (Central West Region) since 2007 and as a Deputy Judge of the Small Claims Court since 2008. These appointments reflect her balanced, solutions‑focused perspective both inside and outside the courtroom.
Laura has been an instructor for the Law Society of Ontario’s Bar Admission Course, contributed to the Bar Examination Item Writing Team, and frequently lectures on issues related to family law and dispute resolution. She has also been instrumental in developing and expanding the Dispute Resolution Conference Program in both Milton and Hamilton.
Committed to her community and the profession, Laura has served as President of the Halton County Law Association, as a Central‑West Regional Representative and Family Law Co‑Chair for the Federation of Ontario Law Associations, and as a long‑time panel lawyer for both the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee and the Office of the Children’s Lawyer.
Outside of practice, Laura is an enthusiastic tennis player and an active supporter of local arts and youth initiatives in Oakville.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 1997
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Osgoode Hall Law School, 1995
◦ Intensive Program – First Nations Lands, Resources & Self‑Government
Honours Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Political Science, McMaster University, 1992
◦ Honours Essay Multilateral Dynamics: A Study in Canadian Diplomacy
Certified Collaborative Professional (Basic and Advanced Skills)
Certified Divorce Specialist
Certificate of Achievement Domestic Violence Risk Assessment & Management, Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women and Children, Western University (2020)
Certified User Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment (ODARA), Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care (2020)
Professional Associations
Lead Dispute Resolution Officer, Superior Court (Central West Region)
Deputy Judge, Small Claims Court (Central West Region) President, Halton County Law Association
Family Law Co‑Chair & Central‑West Regional Representative, Federation of Ontario Law Associations
Member, Ontario Bar Association
Member, Canadian Bar Association
Member, Advocates’ Society
Member, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts
Community
Former Pro Bono Duty Counsel, Advocates’ Society (2008 – 2012)
Counsel
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Associate Lawyer
Erica received her Bachelor of Arts from McGill University and her J.D. from Queen's University Faculty of Law. In law school, Erica received the Highest Standing in Information Privacy and Family and Children's Law, coached the Walsh Family Law Moot team, volunteered at the Prison Law and Family Law Clinics, and worked as a family law research assistant for Professor Mary Jane Mossman. Before joining Ruso & Associates, Erica summered and articled at a prominent family law firm in downtown Toronto.
Erica maintains a diverse family law practice including high-conflict parenting disputes, property division and support matters, and domestic contracts. She has appeared in the Ontario Court of Justice and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and assisted in matters before the Court of Appeal. In 2025, Erica completed training in Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice through the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals to guide clients who prefer resolution outside of court.
Clients appreciate Erica's responsiveness and commitment to their cases. Precise in her approach, she is an energetic advocate who guides clients through the court process and persuasively articulates their positions to ensure their rights are protected.
Outside of practice, Erica enjoys downhill skiing, art galleries, and any movie with an Ennio Morricone soundtrack.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2020
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Queen's University Faculty of Law, 2019
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Art History, McGill University, 2015
Certificate in Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice, IACP, 2025
Awards
Queen's Law Prize — Highest Standing in Family and Children's Law Placement
Queen's Law Prize — Highest Standing in Information Privacy
Community
Former Volunteer and Caseworker, Queen's Family Law Clinic
Former Volunteer and Caseworker, Queen's Prison Law Clinic
Publications
Fertile Ground for Fearmongering: A Challenge of the Rhetoric Underlying the Canadian Ban on Commercial Surrogacy, Ontario Family Law Reporter, November 2019
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Associate Lawyer
Jordyn received her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology and her J.D. from. Western University. Prior to joining Ruso & Associates, Jordyn spent the first five years of her career practicing as criminal defence counsel at a reputable firm in downtown
Toronto — an experience that sharpened her instincts in high-pressure, high-conflict situations. She is most comfortable in the courtroom, having appeared in the Ontario
Court of Justice and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, and assisted on matters before the Ontario Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Jordyn maintains a broad family law practice encompassing separation and divorce, parenting arrangements, support, property division, and domestic contracts. Her criminal law background gives her a distinctive edge — particularly in matters involving a high degree of parenting-related conflict. She has developed deep experience navigating issues of parental alienation, reunification therapy, and temporary transfers of care.
Outside of work, Jordyn is a hands-on mom to two daughters and two chocolate labs. In
her spare time, she loves attending concerts, playing board games, and exploring the world.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2018
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Western University, 2017
Bachelor of Arts (B.A., Honours), Psychology, Western University, 2014
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Associate Lawyer
Gabriela brings a rare depth of institutional knowledge to her role — having joined Ruso & Associates in 2017 as an intern, progressing through a clerkship and articles, and now practicing as an Associate Lawyer with the firm. That continuity has given her an unusually well-rounded understanding of file management, client relationships, and the full arc of a family law matter from intake to resolution.
Gabriela received her Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto and her Master of Public and International Affairs from York University before completing her Juris Doctor at Western University Faculty of Law. Prior to attending law school, Gabriela also worked as a Commerce Officer with the Federal Government.
Gabriela’s practice focuses on parenting and custody matters, support, property division, and complex financial structures.
Outside of work, Gabriela enjoys cooking, staying active, and spending time with friends and family. She is also involved in organizing the firm's annual holiday food and clothing drive.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2026
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Western University Faculty of Law, 2024
Master of Public and International Affairs, York University, 2020
Honours Bachelor of Arts (H.B.A.), University of Toronto, 2017
Community
Organizer, Ruso & Associates Annual Holiday Food and Clothing Drive
Additional Languages
Spanish and French
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Associate Lawyer
Over the course of his career, Michael has built a broad family law practice. He is particularly skilled at navigating high-conflict matters — bringing a composure and steadiness that clients find reassuring under pressure. Michael approaches each file with grounded and solution-oriented clarity, ensuring clients remain informed, involved, and grounded in realistic expectations throughout the process.
Michael received his Joint Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from the University of Ottawa, followed by a Master's Degree in History, also from the University of Ottawa. He went on to earn his law degree from Queen's University Faculty of Law, and while there, obtained a Certificate in International Public Law from the Bader International Study Centre in the United Kingdom. He was called to the Bar of Ontario in 2018 and has been with Ruso & Associates since articling with the firm in 2017.
Outside of work, Michael enjoys spending time with his family, following hockey, and walking his Brittany Spaniel, Lolita.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2018
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Queen's University Faculty of Law, 2017
Certificate in International Public Law, Bader International Study Centre, United Kingdom
Master of Arts (M.A.), History, University of Ottawa, 2012
Bachelor of Arts (B.A., Joint Honours), Political Science and History, University of Ottawa, 2010
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Associate Lawyer
George attended York University, where he graduated with an Honours BA in Political Science in 2003. He went on to study law at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, obtaining his law degree in 2006 and was then called to the Ontario Bar in 2007. He has practiced law as a litigator ever since.
Prior to joining Ruso & Associates, George was a litigator, representing individuals, corporations and various institutions, in many areas of law, including family and matrimonial litigation. Throughout his many years of practice, George has represented clients at various courts and tribunals, some of which include jury and non-jury trials before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice; trials, conferences and motions before the Ontario Court of Justice; appeals before the Divisional Court; and hearings at numerous tribunals, such as the Social Security Tribunal of Canada, Financial Services Commission of Ontario, Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal and the Licence Appeal Tribunal.
George found his calling in the practice of family law and has dedicated his career to assisting people successfully navigate one of the most difficult times in their lives. His years of experience, along with his passion for strong advocacy, ensures his clients’ rights are always protected and that the best possible outcomes can be achieved. His practice encompasses all areas of family law, ranging from negotiating and drafting marriage contracts and separation agreements to conducting trials, arguing appeals and everything in between.
When he is away from the office, George spends most of his time with his two wonderful daughters. He is also a diehard supporter of his childhood soccer club, Olympiacos FC, which he closely follows, and travels to support in person.
Education
Called to the Ontario Bar of Ontario, June 2007
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Queen’s University Faculty of Law, 2006
Honours Bachelor of Arts (H.B.A.), York University of Toronto, 2003
Professional Associations
Law Society of Ontario
Canadian Bar Association
Halton County Law Association
Hellenic Canadian Lawyers Association
Additional Languages
Greek
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Associate Lawyer
Daniel received his Honours Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Wilfrid Laurier University and his law degree from Queen's University Faculty of Law. After articling in the Litigation Services department at the Law Society of Ontario, he was called to the Bar of Ontario in 2020.
Daniel maintains a broad family law practice with a particular focus on matters involving complex financial structures and high-net-worth files. He is deeply involved in the financial dimensions of family law — gathering and analyzing financial disclosure, determining income for support where sources are complicated, and tracing assets to establish attribution and value across business interests and other complex property. Detail-oriented and analytically rigorous, Daniel approaches every matter with a critical eye and a genuine commitment to the people he represents.
Outside of work, Daniel is an avid road cyclist and a self-described average home cook. He serves as a youth leader at his church and has a deep appreciation for a good story — equally at home in a novel, a film, or a video game.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2020
Juris Doctor (J.D.), Queen's University Faculty of Law, 2019
Honours Bachelor of Arts (H.B.A.), Philosophy, Wilfrid Laurier University, 2016
Professional Associations
Member, Ontario Bar Association
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Associate Lawyer
Max Katz is an associate lawyer at Ruso & Associates. Max has participated in several trials at the Superior Court and Ontario Court levels. Max is adept at readying files for trial and is on his way to becoming a seasoned trial lawyer.
Before joining Ruso & Associates, Max was a family law duty counsel lawyer with Legal Aid Ontario, appearing daily before the Ontario Court of Justice on conferences, motions, urgent child protection and parenting matters. His prior experience in civil litigation gives him a measured, pragmatic approach to risk and resolution — skills clients value in contested family law cases.
Max’s background in social work also informs his perspective as counsel. He has worked extensively with youth and families in crisis, equipping him with a rare understanding of conflict dynamics and the human dimension of a family breakdown.
Dedicated, prepared, and empathetic in his advocacy, Max helps clients navigate complex issues with clarity and care.
Outside of work, Max enjoys travelling and spending time with family and friends.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2021
Juris Doctor, Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, 2020
Honours Bachelor of Social Work, Wilfrid Laurier University, 2017
Social Service Worker Diploma, Sheridan College, 2014
Professional Associations
Member, Law Society of Ontario
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Associate Lawyer
Justin advises clients on separation and divorce, parenting matters, support, and property division.
Prior to law school, Justin completed his Bachelor of Commerce with High Distinction at the University of Toronto, a foundation that directly informs his developing focus on financially complex family law matters. He is building a practice around cases involving business ownership, asset valuation, and the identification and tracing of undisclosed financial interests, bringing a structured, analytically rigorous approach to files that require careful financial scrutiny.
Justin's practice is grounded in clear thinking and practical guidance. He approaches each matter with discipline and precision, helping clients understand their position and move forward with confidence.
Outside of work, Justin is an avid runner and enjoys spending quality time with his family.
Education
Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2025
Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of Windsor Faculty of Law, 2024
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Comm., High Distinction), University of Toronto, 2021
Professional Associations
Member, Law Society of Ontario
Client Support & Operations
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Executive Legal Assistant
Fatima is the Executive Legal Assistant at Ruso & Associates, supporting the Controller and broader administrative team. She prepares and sends client invoices and retainers, assists with client intake and onboarding processes, manages payment tracking, and maintains organized administrative and financial records. Fatima’s role ensures the firm's back-office operations run with accuracy and efficiency.
Fatima holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Law and Society, and Sociology from the University of Toronto. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy and has experience supporting policy work in the Ontario Public Service. Her education brings a thoughtful, policy-informed perspective to the human dimensions of family law practice.
Outside of work, Fatima is passionate about community advocacy, writing on issues related to public policy and the justice system, reading, and baking.
Education
Master of Public Policy (MPP), Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy, University of Toronto (Expected 2027)
Honours Bachelor of Arts, Criminology, Law & Society and Sociology, University of Toronto, 2024
Community
Pro bono consultant with the Public Good Initiative (PGI) at the University of Toronto
Additional Languages
Urdu
Punjabi
Hindi
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Receptionist
Amanda is the welcoming first point of contact at Ruso & Associates, known for her warm personality, professionalism, and attention to detail. She plays an important role in supporting the firm’s daily operations by managing incoming calls, greeting clients and guests, coordinating administrative tasks, and helping ensure every client experience is handled with care and efficiency.
Amanda completed her Law Clerk Diploma at Seneca College, where she gained hands-on experience during her field placement at a family law firm in Toronto. This opportunity strengthened her passion for family law and reinforced her commitment to supporting individuals and families through important moments in their lives.
Recognized for her strong organizational skills and approachable nature, Amanda is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment for both clients and colleagues.
Outside of work, Amanda enjoys staying active through fitness, spending quality time with friends and family, and maintaining a healthy balance between her professional and personal life.
Education
Law Clerk Diploma, Seneca College
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Senior Family Law Clerk
Karen is a Senior Family Law Clerk at Ruso & Associates with nearly four decades of experience in the legal field. Karen brings an exceptional depth of procedural knowledge and institutional expertise to the firm. She oversees the preparation and drafting of court documents, manages scheduling and calendaring for lawyers, liaises with clients, court officials, and opposing counsel, and ensures the accurate and timely service and filing of court materials. Karen's extensive experience means she anticipates challenges before they arise and brings a steady, authoritative hand to even the most complex or high-stakes files.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys gardening, and spending time with her horse, Roxy.
Education
Law Clerk Certificate, Law Clerk's Institute, Mohawk College
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Law Clerk
Natalia is a Law Clerk at Ruso & Associates, where she has spent five years developing a well-rounded understanding of family law practice and procedure. She serves as a primary liaison between the firm and its clients, ensuring clients are kept informed of all case developments in a timely and compassionate manner. Natalia also manages and reviews client files, assembles case materials, including detailed disclosure briefs, researches matter-specific issues, and provides day-to-day administrative support across the team.
Outside of work, Natalia enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time with friends and family.
Education
Honours Bachelor of Arts, Criminology, with Minors in Psychology and Sociology, Toronto Metropolitan University
Additional Languages
Ukrainian
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Controller
Julia is the Financial Controller at Ruso & Associates, where she has spent five years building and overseeing the financial infrastructure that has helped drive the firm's growth. As a result of Julia’s efforts, Ruso & Associates is now the largest family law firm in Halton Region.
Julia manages not only the firm's financial health but oversees the broader strategic direction, including operations and hiring. Julia manages all aspects of the firm finances, and works closely with clients and lawyers to ensure financial matters are handled in accordance with the parameters set by the Law Society of Ontario.
Prior to joining Ruso & Associates, Julia worked at a prestigious accounting firm in Toronto, where she gained extensive experience in audit and financial reporting. This experience has been invaluable to her role at Ruso & Associates.
Outside of work, Julia enjoys theatre, skiing, and exploring new restaurants.
Education
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), 2021
Graduate Diploma in Accounting, Wilfrid Laurier University
Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (with Co-op, with Distinction), Wilfrid Laurier University
Professional Désignations & Associations
CPA Ontario (Designation)
CPA Canada (Designation)
WLU Alumni Association
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Paralegal | Law Clerk
Fareesha is a Licensed Paralegal and Law Clerk at Ruso & Associates, with over a decade of experience in the legal field. Fareesha has also completed the Family Legal Services Provider course and will receive her designation imminently.
Fareesha is Ruso & Associates’ primary trial clerk. In this role, she manages trial scheduling, procedural compliance, and preparation of trial briefs. Fareesha’s experience and knowledge has allowed her to attend and assist senior lawyers during trial. Day to day, she manages client files and disclosure, prepares and files court documents, and processes uncontested divorces for the firm. Prior to joining Ruso & Associates, Fareesha worked at boutique personal injury firms, where she developed substantial experience in accident benefits and client-facing file management across a wide range of cases.
Beyond her legal work, Fareesha is an active contributor to Ruso & Associates’ culture and trajectory. Fareesha has developed the firm’s client onboarding procedures, helps to organize firm events and leads charitable initiatives that give back to the community.
In her spare time, Fareesha enjoys seeing a movie, staying active and hosting her friends and family.
Education
Family Legal Services Provider (FLSP), Law Society of Ontario, Expected 2026
Paralegal License (P1), Law Society of Ontario, 2017
Diploma in Paralegal Studies, Humber College, 2016
Community
Organizer of firm charitable initiatives and community giving programs