“I believe that family law is an ever-changing landscape and we must think innovatively to help our clients navigate it.”
NAZIFA ISLAM
Senior Associate Lawyer
Credentials
Education
- University of Toronto
- Osgoode Hall Law School
Degrees
- B.A. (Hons.)
- J.D.
Memberships
- Law Society of Ontario
- Halton County Law Association
Volunteer Experience
- Ontario Justice Education Network
- Pro Bono Students Canada
Languages Spoken
- Bangla
Specializing in History and Political Science, Nazifa graduated from the University of Toronto with continued standing on the Dean’s List. She was awarded a scholarship based on academic achievement upon entrance into Osgoode Hall Law School where she completed her reading of law.
In her time at law school, Nazifa worked on the Pro Bono Students Canada Family Law Project assisting clients with applications for support, custody, and access among other matters. She participated in a Child Protection Externship and the Osgoode Feminist Advocacy Clinic. She also served as an executive member of the Osgoode Peer Support Centre, carrying out events and initiatives aimed at improving student success and well-being.
Before her Call to the Ontario Bar, Nazifa articled at the Family Responsibility Office (“FRO”). Once called to the Bar, she continued at FRO as Crown Counsel, gaining important expertise and insights into the law of support enforcement. She has appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice, Superior Court of Justice, as well as the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.
An avid reader, Nazifa is often found curled up with a fiction novel and her cat, Snowy, in her spare time.
At SD&A, Nazifa brings a penchant for negotiation and litigation, and a continued commitment to help family law clients approach difficult times with strength, knowledge and confidence.
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What Our Clients Say
“Choosing SDA was the best decision we made. Their team truly cares about their clients.”
Noah
Stephen and his team helped my parents settle their divorce ammicably after 20 years of separation! I am glad I didn’t have to mediate or take sides – really appreciate all the hard work that was put into my family’s situation and that we can all put it behind us.
I contacted Stephen some time ago with a problem I was having with my business. My landlord wanted to buy me out of my lease. Business was pretty bad anyway so I was almost willing to take a very small amount that he offered $68,000 (all numbers expressed here are in current value dollar amounts).
Mariusz Cnota
I have the honor to express my deepest admiration for the work and exceptional professionalism of Stephen Durbin. He is not only a brilliant lawyer but also a person of impeccable reputation, remarkable intelligence, and a rare sense of justice.
Stephen Durbin embodies the qualities that distinguish true masters of their profession: outstanding competence, strategic thinking, impeccable tact, and genuine respect for every individual. His approach to every case is thoughtful, precise, and rooted in a profound understanding of the law. He has a remarkable ability to identify the essence of even the most complex legal situations, make balanced decisions, and defend his position with dignity and strength. Thanks to his professionalism and dedication, many people have received not only legal protection but also restored confidence in justice.
Stephen Durbin is a lawyer you can trust without hesitation. His name has become a symbol of reliability, intelligence, and the highest standards of legal excellence.
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Craig
My initial consult went very well. Lisa took extra time to listen to the merits of my case, offered me meaningful short and long-term advice and gave me the confidence to proceed with SDA for my family law needs.
Annette
I had Stephen Durbin represent me in my family law matter. My matter was a bit harder because my ex lived out of Province and I had no contact with him for many years.
If you are looking for top-quality representation – then Stephen Durbin & Associates is right where you need to be. From day one they gave me peace of mind during a very difficult time in my life. When I had met briefly with Stephen during my consultation, I was told that I could trust them to take care of me with my family law matter. Nazifa Islam and her team – Hope and Chyvonne – were extremely professional, efficient, and completely transparent throughout the entire process. I needed someone attentive. I needed someone to advocate for me and my son. I needed this team – and they exceeded my expectations! They went above and beyond for me and not once made me feel like I was just another “File Number” to them. They were always available when I had questions or concerns, and truly made me feel at ease. Nazifa was brilliant and very knowledgeable; I was lucky to have her by my side. She advised me through my separation agreement, always pursuing not just what I wanted but what was in the best interests of me and my son. The outcome was in my favour. Stephen Durbin & Associates gave me a voice when I felt silenced. Worth every single dime!! I highly recommend.
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George
What a difference an experienced lawyer does make. With Stephen, It was a legal experience, but it was also therapeutic in some ways because he seemed to know exactly what I was going through and his confidence gave me confidence through the process. Can’t thank him enough. It’s great to move on.
Nancy
Stephen is my go-to lawyer during difficult times. His knowledge, wisdom, and expertise is simply unparalleled. He puts you right at ease and knows exactly how to handle any situation. Thank you for all your help.
905-332-9779