
Ashley Heisler
Employment Lawyer
| Pronouns | she/her |
| School | University of Ottawa |
| Hometown | Chilliwack, BC |
| When not at work I am | Likely mountain biking with family, friends and/or multiple dogs |
| Languages | English and French |
| Ice Cream Flavour | Salted Caramel |
| If I wasn’t a lawyer I would be | A hiking tour guide |
| Book Recommendation | Any book written by Gillian McAllister |
| Community Work | Access Pro Bono lawyer |
about Ashley
I am an employment, labour, and human rights lawyer at Forte Workplace Law. My practice is grounded in common-sense, practicality and empathy, with a focus on helping clients navigate complex workplace issues effectively and with care.
I have broad experience across workplace law, including employment litigation, investigations, respectful workplace training, and providing general employment and labour advice.
My litigation practice regularly includes matters before the BC Human Rights Tribunal, WorkSafeBC, and the Employment Standards Branch. I have appeared before the Provincial Court, the Supreme Court, and the Court of Appeal of British Columbia, and have successfully represented clients in mediations resolving disputes arising from civil litigation, human rights complaints, and Employment Standards Branch matters. I am keenly aware of the financial, emotional, and organizational costs of litigation and believe in helping clients make thoughtful, informed decisions—whether that means advancing a claim, defending one, or working toward a meaningful resolution.
In addition to my advisory and litigation practice, I am a workplace investigator and StandUp Teams™ facilitator. Drawing on my litigation background, I bring a clear understanding of the legal, human, and organizational consequences of unresolved, and often preventable, conflict, and the critical role that timely investigations and effective workplace training play in addressing it.
I regularly advise both employers and employees in navigating workplace concerns. My experience acting on both sides of disputes allows me to bring a balanced and thoughtful perspective to each client’s situation.
What I value most about workplace law is its relatability and tangible impact. I understand that work is deeply connected to a person’s identity, stability, and well-being, and that workplace decisions often carry significant legal and human consequences. I support business owners as they navigate complex and sensitive situations with practical, thoughtful advice, while remaining acutely aware of the impact those decisions have on their workforce. I also have the privilege of supporting employees through some of the most difficult moments in their professional lives, helping them feel grounded and work toward clarity and closure.
I completed my undergraduate degree in Buffalo, New York, where I was a member of my university’s NCAA Division I women’s lacrosse team. I earned my Juris Doctor from the University of Ottawa’s French Common Law Program. I am an active volunteer with Access Pro Bono, providing free legal advice on a range of workplace issues, including sexual harassment, discrimination, and mental injuries arising from toxic work environments.
Outside of work, I enjoy mountain/gravel biking and skiing, depending on the season, and trying to (unsuccessfully) keep up with my speedy whippet, Norman.
