Robert Doell

Diving into the dynamic career of Robert "Bob" Doell, one can't help but admire his vast contributions and achievements within the realm of family law. Bob embarked on his legal journey right after obtaining his law degree from the University of British Columbia in 1968. Starting as an articling student at Hallett, Stewart, and Gow in Victoria, BC, he quickly made his mark and was called to the Bar of British Columbia a year later, in September 1969.

Not long after, Bob, alongside Marney Stevenson, founded Stevenson Doell in Victoria—a law firm that has become synonymous with excellence in family law. This firm has been the launching pad for many of BC's legal luminaries, including Jane Henderson QC, Deborah Acheson QC, and the former Madam Justice Dorgan of the Supreme Court of BC. Bob's partnership with Brent Kitzke has been a cornerstone of the firm for nearly three decades, fostering a team that has significantly impacted Victoria's legal landscape.

Bob Doell's legal prowess was notably showcased in landmark cases like Rutherford v. Rutherford, which has been cited over 200 times, including by the Supreme Court of Canada. This case, among others like Harper v Harper, underscores Bob's influence and the respect he commands in legal circles. With 244 reported cases to his name, Bob's legacy extends far beyond the courtroom.

His contributions aren't confined to practicing law. Bob has played a pivotal role in shaping the legal framework itself, notably contributing to the drafting of the Family Relations Act in the 1970s and being a guiding voice in property division discussions in 1990 for the CLE Family Law restatement. His insights on pension division and family law have enlightened many, from the Vancouver Family Law Section of the Canadian Bar Association to the CLE Family Law Conference.

Beyond his legal achievements, Bob's dedication to community service shines through. He has been a stalwart supporter of the Victoria Boy Scouts and has served as a director of both the Victoria Bar Association and the Victoria Golf Club, where he holds the distinction of being the longest-serving president. These roles highlight his commitment to enriching his community and fostering connections beyond the legal sphere.

Bob's accolades, such as the recommendation for Queens Counsel by the Honourable J.J. Gow QC, reflect not just his legal acumen but his character as a fearless advocate and a peerless practitioner in family law. His work has not only advanced legal practice but has also left a lasting impact on those he's worked with and represented.

In sum, Robert C. Doell's nearly five-decade-long career is a testament to his enduring dedication, legal brilliance, and the profound influence he's had on family law and beyond. His journey reflects a blend of remarkable achievements, unwavering commitment to the law, and significant contributions to society, making him a distinguished figure in British Columbia's legal history.