Christopher Souster is not your typical lawyer. Based in Calgary, Alberta, he has built a career that spans litigation, real estate law, and landlord-tenant disputes.
But outside the courtroom, he has another passion—boxing. As a licensed referee, judge, and former master light heavyweight world champion, he knows that success in both the legal and athletic arenas comes down to strategy, discipline, and preparation.
A Legal Career Rooted in Advocacy
Souster’s journey into law was shaped by a desire to help others. He studied law at the University of Alberta and has been practicing since 1999. Over the years, he has worked with major law firms, served as a legal consultant, and ultimately founded Nimmons Law Office, where he specializes in real estate and litigation.
“I’ve always believed that the law should be accessible,” Souster says. “People need someone to guide them through the complexities and make sure they don’t get taken advantage of.”
His work focuses on helping clients navigate legal issues that impact their daily lives—whether that’s buying a home, resolving a landlord-tenant dispute, or handling litigation.
Understanding the Legal Side of Real Estate
Real estate transactions are one of Souster’s specialties. He has seen too many buyers and sellers fall into legal traps because they didn’t fully understand the process. From purchase agreements to title searches, his role is to ensure that his clients are protected.
“A lot of people assume that once they sign an agreement, everything will go smoothly,” he explains. “But real estate is full of small details that, if overlooked, can cause major problems later.”
One unique aspect of Nimmons Law Office is that Souster’s team includes an assistant who is also a licensed real estate agent. This provides clients with practical, firsthand insight into the challenges of buying and selling homes.
“That combination of legal knowledge and real-world experience makes a huge difference,” he says. “We’re not just looking at contracts—we understand how deals actually play out in the field.”
The Role of Law in Landlord-Tenant Relationships
Landlord-tenant disputes are another area where Souster has developed deep expertise. The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) governs these relationships, but many people—both landlords and tenants—don’t fully understand their rights and obligations.
“Security deposits, eviction notices, maintenance responsibilities—these are all areas where misunderstandings happen,” he explains. “Most conflicts can be avoided if both sides understand what’s legally required.”
He also emphasizes the importance of Alberta’s Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS), which offers an alternative to court for resolving conflicts.
“The RTDRS is a great tool when used properly,” Souster says. “It’s faster and more affordable than going to court, but preparation is key. You need the right evidence and a clear understanding of the law.”
Lessons from Boxing: Strategy and Discipline
Outside of law, boxing has been a defining part of Souster’s life. He has competed, trained, and officiated at the highest levels, serving as a licensed judge and referee for organizations like the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) and Professional Boxing Canada (NABF and CPBC).
“Boxing teaches you patience, focus, and adaptability,” he says. “It’s not just about throwing punches—it’s about knowing when to strike, when to defend, and when to adjust your strategy. That applies to the courtroom as much as the ring.”
For Souster, the connection between boxing and law is clear. Both require preparation, resilience, and the ability to think under pressure.
“In a legal dispute, like in a fight, you can’t just react emotionally,” he explains. “You need a plan. You need to anticipate what’s coming and stay focused on the outcome.”
A Love for the Outdoors and Finding Balance
When he’s not in the courtroom or the boxing ring, Souster finds peace in the outdoors. Camping and spending time in nature allow him to reset and gain perspective.
“There’s something about being outside, away from screens and distractions, that helps you think clearly,” he says. “It reminds you that not everything has to be a battle. Sometimes, you just need to step back and breathe.”
This balance between discipline and relaxation is something he encourages in both his legal clients and his fellow athletes.
“Whether you’re fighting a legal case or training for a competition, you have to know when to push and when to rest,” he says. “That’s the key to long-term success.”
A Commitment to Helping Others
Souster’s approach to law is straightforward: he wants to help people avoid problems before they happen. That means educating clients, offering clear guidance, and making the legal system more accessible.
“Most legal issues aren’t about winning or losing—they’re about finding fair solutions,” he says. “My job is to make sure my clients understand their rights, their responsibilities, and the best path forward.”
His work in Calgary continues to have a lasting impact, from protecting homebuyers to guiding landlords and tenants through complex legal situations. And whether in the courtroom, in the ring, or around a campfire, one thing remains the same—his commitment to strategy, fairness, and preparation.
“Law and boxing aren’t that different,” Souster says with a smile. “In both, the smartest person—not just the toughest one—usually wins.”
Read more:
Christopher Souster: Balancing Law, Strategy, and the Fight for Fairness