Dispute resolution in Canada
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie has an emphasis on cross-border litigation and fraud-related disputes, with strong experience in advising major financial institutions on fraud, white-collar crime and financial recovery matters. The firm is also well versed in class actions, particularly multi-jurisdictional cases where it benefits from the ability to link up with its highly regarded global dispute resolution offering. Senior contacts include John Pirie, who leads the Canadian litigation and government enforcement group, and Matthew Latella. Up-and-coming partner Michael Nowina and talented associate Christina Doria are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Baker McKenzie has the ability to understand and grasp in short time frames the strategic and operational issues facing the client when it has a potential dispute with the objective of first trying to resolve it prior to litigation. When there is to be hard fought litigation, the Baker McKenzie team provides a formidable defense. A real strength is the team’s ability to call upon other Baker McKenzie subject matter experts both nationally, and internationally to provide further necessary advice. The seamless approach ensures that Baker McKenzie’s client service is value added, timely, and cost effective.’
‘The team’s profile in Canadian courts is without a doubt a strength. The firm has defended Ontario judges in civil actions on more than one occasion. These engagements say a lot about the Baker team’s reputation among our bar and judiciary. The Baker team has showed an ability to quickly evaluate a case to provide strategic, business-minded advice. We trust their judgment implicitly when the stakes are high.’
‘I have worked with the firm for more than 17 years, and have chosen to work with them based on the group’s strong reputation in our Canadian courts. The Team is able to react quickly, make real time decisions and act with vigor in cases that are very challenging and free moving. When fraud or white collar crime is at issue, the Baker Team delivers the necessary actions to protect, and advance client interests and obtain such relief to give effect to these key facets.’
‘Partner John Pirie is the primary lawyer that I deal with on a regular basis. Mr. Pirie has a sterling reputation in our legal community. Mr. Pirie is regarded as a powerful litigator in the Ontario courts, particularly when it comes to white collar and fraud related matters. Mr. Pirie is one of the pre-eminent counsel to practice in Canada in this niche practice area. He takes a hands-on, in depth approach to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and formulates a strategy that the Baker team will then implement with precision. He leads the Baker team in Canada, and has been instrumental in developing and fostering the team’s profile in Canadian courts which is without a doubt a key strength. Mr. Pirie can deliver timely and effective results to achieve client goals and protect against financial loss, by quickly putting together the necessary proceedings – motions, injunctions and the like.’
‘David Gadsden is thorough, practical and able to identify the key issues at hand and then devise the necessary strategy to achieve client objectives.’
‘Matthew Latella is a formidable opponent who is able to advocate key submissions in a persuasive and comprehensive manner designed to reach the Court’s attentions and concerns.’
Matthew Latella assisted our client in a hard fought battle up to leave to appeal to the Supreme Court. He is a technically superb, impressive advocate. He was an absolute pleasure to work with and provides first-rate advice and support.
‘Known for high level expertise in cross-border litigation, particularly in fraud and asset recovery matters (both plaintiff and defense side). They have acted as counsel on some of the main fraud related decisions in Canada including notable matters in the securities, competition and insolvency contexts. They have also made law in Canada when it comes to enforcement of foreign judgments and arbitral awards, particularly in a fraud context.’
‘My impression of the team as a whole is that it is excellent. The team is masterful in achieving successful outcomes for their clients in high-stakes litigation. They tackled a high-profile international trial, that few counsel will get to see in their careers, with mastery and aplomb. It is clear that each member of the team brings knowledge, expertise and valuable skills to the table, and that the global team works together seamlessly for the client.’
‘The primary lawyers I dealt with were John Pirie and the Canadian group. They are well known for handling corporate fraud matters, particularly those with international aspects. This high-level expertise has been readily apparent throughout my work with Baker McKenzie.’
‘John is an experienced litigator with deep expertise in several areas including class actions and cross-border litigation. He is a brilliant strategist with an unparalleled ability to bring clarity and big-picture perspective to even the most complex litigation matters. Moreover, John is an astute and skilled litigator and excellent leader, having instructed the joint trial team every step of the way, leveraging each member.’
Key clients
Pöyry Forestry Industry Consulting (now AFRY)
Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Marcan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Apex Issuances
Messier-Dowty Inc. et al (now Safran Landing Systems)
Okaya Electric Industries Co. and Okaya Electric America, Inc.
IFS Vehicle Distributors ULC
Municipality of Brighton
Parque Industrial Avante Monterrey, S.A. de C.V.
HSBC Bank Canada
Kayaba Industry Co. Ltd. d/b/a KYB Corporation and KYB Americas Corporation
NHK Spring Co., NHK International, NAT Peripheral (Hong Kong) Co., and NHK Spring (Thailand) Co.
Fugro Canada Corp.
BDO Canada
Grant Thornton
Travelex PLC
Etobicoke Ironworks
Landsberg Canada Inc. and Orora Packaging Solutions
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Twitter in its opposition to an application that would have required it to divulge personal identity information of users.
- Acted for Pöyry Forestry Industry Consulting in a high profile two-month trial arising out of the Sino-Forest Corporation affair.
- Advised Avet Pharmaceuticals and Marcan Pharmaceuticals on a proposed C$2.7bn competition class action.
Bennett Jones LLP
Historically a leader in Alberta, Bennett Jones LLP’s increasingly formidable national commercial litigation group continues to raise its profile in Ontario. Additionally, the group’s Vancouver office houses a growing litigation offering, which is backed-up by a robust arbitration practice. In Calgary, the firm remains a top choice for complex corporate and commercial disputes, with strong skill sets in energy, mining, construction and technology-related matters. Blair Yorke-Slader QC is widely recognized as a leader, particularly in energy litigation, while fraud co-chair Munaf Mohamed has a focus on civil fraud and international asset recovery claims. The Calgary office also includes a strong band of younger partners including Michael Mysak, who focuses on corporate and commercial litigation, and Laura Gill, who specializes in energy, Indigenous law and environmental law matters. The Toronto-based team covers a full range of contentious matters, with class actions, fraud cases, securities litigation and health law among its strong suits. Jeffrey Leon and Robert Staley are both highly regarded for class actions and securities litigation. Class actions co-head Michael Eizenga is also a senior name in Toronto. Ranjan Agarwal is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Ranjan Agarwal; Michael Eizenga; Laura Gill; Jeffrey Leon; Munaf Mohamed; Michael Mysak; Robert Staley; Blair Yorke-Slader QC
Key clients
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp.
AO Smith
Apotex
Atlas Copco
Bard Canada Inc.
Bayer AG/Monsanto Corporation
Beleave Inc.
Blythe Academy (Special Master)
Calfrac Well Services
CannTrust (Director of)
Clyde Bergeman Power Group
Ford
General Motors
Greg Guyatt, current CEO of CannTrust Holdings Inc. (former CFO)
Hyundai
Katanga Mining
Kia
Luxtona LLC
Marriott Hotels
Mettrum
Monsanto Canada Corp.
Nestle Canada Inc.
Obsidian Energy
Pharmascience
Premier Gold Mines
Principal shareholders and corporate entities of Rabba Foods
SalMar ASA Scottish Farms
Sino-Forest Corporation/SFC Litigation Trust
Trustees of the Hyatt Trust
Volkswagen AG
HMB Holdings
J.P. Graci & Associates
ATCO
Bank of Montreal
BMO Life Assurance
Calgary Exhibition and Stampede
Canadian Natural Resources
Canadian Pacific Railway
Cenovus Energy
Dow Chemical Canada ULC
Enbridge Inc.
Encana Corporation
Enerflow Industries Inc.
Husky Oil Operations
Imperial Oil
Japan Canada Oil Sands
Matco Investments
MEG Energy
North West Redwater Partnership
Parkland Pipeline Contractors
Pembina Pipeline
PETRONAS Canada
PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.
Schlumberger
Stuart Olson
Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure
Total Energy Services
AXOR Group
Boffo Investment Corp.
Borrelli Walsh
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
City of Surrey
Concord Pacific Group
Gateway Casinos
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Travelers Insurance Company of Canada
Vancouver Airport Authority
Work highlights
- Represented Luxtona LLC, a former shareholder of the now expropriated Yukos Oil, in a $700m arbitration case against the Russian Federation.
- Advised Wood Group Canada on a C$450m construction claim brought by Nexen Energy (now CNOOC Petroleum North America) alleging breach of contract, negligence in design and failure to warn.
- Acted for AXOR Group, and affiliates, in a dispute with the BC government over the interpretation of an option to purchase, which concerned the province’s first PPP project.
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP fields a comprehensive national disputes practice, which benefits from market-leading litigators in all of Canada’s four largest commercial centres. Notably, the firm is a strong performer both locally, where it advises on a range of province-specific core regional industries; and nationally, where it is a popular choice for major cross-province cases, including class actions. The Alberta group has also has a standout year—particularly in the energy and construction spheres—under the leadership of high-profile litigator David Tupper. Other recommended names in Calgary include increasingly prominent commercial litigator Renee Reichelt and associate Ian Breneman, who focuses on transport and energy matters. In British Columbia, James Sullivan QC is recommended for product liability, class actions and energy-related cases, while national arbitration co-lead Joseph McArthur handles a mix of commercial litigation and arbitration. In Ontario, Michael Barrack is a name to note, as is Gordon McKee, widely recognized as a leader in class actions. Toronto litigation lead Bradley Berg and up-and-coming partner Iris Fischer are also recommended in Ontario. Montréal managing partner Robert Torralbo is a highly regarded litigator in Quebec. Also of note, the Quebec group was recently boosted by the arrival of insurance and construction-focused litigator Matthew Liben, who joined from Stikeman Elliott LLP.
Practice head(s):
Bradley Berg; Sean Boyle; Joseph McArthur; Francis Rouleau; Robert Torralbo; David Tupper;
Other key lawyers:
Michael Barrack; Ian Breneman; Iris Fischer; Gordon McKee; Renee Reichelt; James Sullivan QC; Matthew Liben
Key clients
Suncor Energy
CHC Casinos Canada
ADAG Corporation Canada
Labatt Breweries of Canada LP
Horizons ETFS Management (Canada) Inc.
Visa Canada Corporation
BDO Canada LLP
Belinda Stronach
Hydro-Québec
City of Montréal
Air Canada
Bell Canada
Visa Canada Corporation
Le Groupe Jean Coutu (PJC) Inc.
Dow Chemical Canada ULC
Intrawest ULC
J. Michael Pearson
ABB Inc.
CNOOC International Ltd. (formerly Nexen Energy ULC)
Baker Hughes Canada Company
WestJet Airlines
Pembina Pipeline Corporation
Tundra Oil & Gas
Husky Energy Inc.
Enerplus Corporation
Munich Re Insurance
Husky Oil Operations
CP Rail
ENMAX Corporation
CIBC
Imperial Oil
Repsol Inc.
ExxonMobil Corporation
HSBC Bank Canada
TD Waterhouse Canada Inc.
Lyft Canada Inc.
Coast Capital Savings Credit Union
Ivanhoe Cambridge II Inc.
AON Hewitt
Lindt & Sprungli (Canada)
Royal Bank of Canada
Lundin Mining Corp.
Coca Cola
Mackie Research Capital Corp.
Microsoft Corporation
Seven Leaf Medical Cannabis
Dominion Diamond Mines ULC
Work highlights
- Successfully represented a consortium of energy companies (Suncor Energy, Imperial Oil, Husky Oil Operations, Cenovus Energy and Canadian Natural Resources) before the Supreme Court of Canada in a case dismissing British Columbia’s attempts to block the Trans Mountain Expansion project.
- Represented Bell Canada in injunctive proceedings which requested Quebecor to restore the broadcast signal that Groupe TVA unlawfully interrupted during the Stanley Cup playoffs.
- Advised CNOOC International on a C$450m action claiming breach of contract and negligence against engineering and construction companies following the Long Lake Pipeline spill.
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP advises on a wide range of contentious matters, with financial services litigation, administrative law, product liability and white-collar crime standing out as strong suits. The group is particularly dominant in Alberta, which is the seat of go-to energy litigator Randall Block QC. In British Columbia, Robert Deane is recommended for his broad expertise, which spans commercial litigation, arbitration, privacy and IP disputes. Guy Pratte is a key name for class actions and complex constitutional law cases; he splits his time between Ontario and Quebec. The Quebec group is also known for its strong record in class actions.
Practice head(s):
David Di Paolo; Cindy Clarke; Mathieu Piché-Messier; Glenn Zakaib; Brad Dixon
Other key lawyers:
Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP
According to satisfied clients, Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP ‘works well with other experts to deliver practical advice’. The Calgary-based group is best known for its track record in energy, construction and securities disputes, including arbitration. Seasoned litigator Daniel McDonald QC handles a mix of litigation and arbitration and sources say, ‘he does not get rattled’. Jeffrey Sharpe is another experienced name and is recommended for construction disputes. Senior associate Joanne Luu is noted for her experience both in commercial litigation and arbitration.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has good depth and works well with other experts to deliver practical advice. While other firms in Calgary have this capability, BDP is in the top tier of this group with consistently good quality lawyers.’
‘Dan McDonald is highly experienced and has seen most things. He does not get rattled. He relies on Andrew Sunter who is a bright junior partner that is creative in his analysis.’
‘The team works together very well. They build on each others strengths to provide the best path forward for resolving disputes. The team has been very successful in getting disputes resolved. In the few that have had to go the distance they have reached a successful conclusion through the Courts or Arbitration.’
‘The team is made up of Jeff Sharpe, Andrew Sunter, Robert Martz and Susan Fader. The ability to work together and build of each others strengths make them a strong team.’
Key clients
Chevron Canada Resources
NuVista Energy
Suncor Energy
Bellatrix Exploration
Alberta Small Brewers Association
Canadian Natural Resources
Dow Chemical Canada ULC
Fluid Energy
MEG Energy
Enerflex
Athabasca Oil Corporation
Work highlights
- Acted for Manson Insulation Products, as the plaintiffs, in multi-party litigation involving breach of a distribution agreement and product quality issues.
- Represented the Attorney General of Alberta in a constitutional challenge from the Attorney General of British Columbia concerning the ‘Turn off the Taps’ legislation.
- Advised CNOOC Petroleum North America on a C$620m lease dispute against 801 Seventh.
Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP
Split between its Montréal and Toronto offices, the disputes team at Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP is known for its ‘seamless coverage, flawless execution and exceptional service’. In Montréal, William Brock Ad E ranks among the most respected litigators in the Quebec market. Seasoned litigator Guy Du Pont Ad E is also highly sought after for his experience in sensitive white-collar crime matters and commercial litigation. Jean-Philippe Groleau has an emphasis on white-collar crime prosecution, as well as class actions. In Ontario, Toronto litigation head Kent Thomson is widely recognized as a market leader, having built an impressive record in complex cases, including securities litigation, competition cases and class actions. Sandra Forbes is another name to note for competition-related litigation, including class actions. Derek Ricci and Matthew Milne-Smith are up-and-coming litigators in Toronto.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
William Brock Ad E; Guy Du Pont Ad E; Sandra Forbes; Jean-Philippe Groleau; Matthew Milne-Smith; Derek Ricci
Testimonials
‘Seamless coverage, flawless execution and exceptional service. The team never misses anything.’
Key clients
Barrick Gold Corporation
Rogers Communications
General Motors of Canada
TransAlta Corporation
DENSO Corporation
The Canadian Real Estate Association
LG Chem
Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation
McKesson Corporation
West Face Capital Inc.
Endo International
BTIG, LLC
Hydro One
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Delta Air Lines
Continental Casualty Company
Walsh Canada
Power Corporation of Canada
Glencore
Epic Games Inc.
Honeywell International
Leonardo S.p.a.
Formula E Operations
Kaman Corporation
Carbonleo
Kildair Service ULC
Work highlights
- Acted for Eastlink, Cogeco, Rogers, Shaw and Videotron in an appeal against a Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission order that retroactively reduced the applicable wholesale price that these cable carriers were permitted to charge to third-party internet service providers.
- Advised McKesson Corporation and McKesson Canada Corporation on three proposed class actions brought in BC and Alberta against manufacturers and distributors of opioids, which seek to recover health care costs and other damages arising as a result of the opioid crisis.
- Represented Formula E Operations in claims arising from the City of Montreal’s decision to cancel the Montreal ePrix.
Dentons
The ‘result-oriented’ group at Dentons has received praise for its ‘excellent legal analysis and advocacy’. Well-represented throughout the firm’s offices in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec, the group can also plug into its wider global network for support on cross-border cases. Calgary-based Gordon Tarnowsky QC leads the national litigation and dispute resolution group and is best known for his experience in energy and oil and gas disputes. Rachel Howie co-heads the Calgary litigation and dispute resolution group and is developing a strong practice in arbitration and litigation matters. Vancouver’s David Wotherspoon spearheads the growing British Columbia group, which also includes prolific senior associate Emma Irving. Matthew Fleming, who is the deputy head of the national practice, continues to raise his profile in Toronto, particularly in the class actions space. Quebec litigation head Margaret Weltrowska and Montréal-based associate Erica Shadeed are also recommended. In 2019, Morgan Camley and Sarah Nelligan joined the Vancouver office from Miller Thomson.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Fleming; Rachel Howie; Emma Irving; Erica Shadeed; Margaret Weltrowska; David Wotherspoon
Testimonials
‘The advice I routinely receive is practical and ethical, and factors in potential process costs of various scenarios. I’ve found Dentons to be particularly judicious about ensuring not just that the outcome of a particular file is good but that we reach that outcome in the most cost-effective way – this is a very consequential thing when a file involves multiyear, nine-figure disputes. I’ve also never had occasion to question the reasonableness of a Dentons invoice. I say this having worked with several other firms, including with other national and international firms.’
‘Dennis Picco handles the majority of my most complex commercial matters and has very much become a ”trusted advisor” for both business and legal strategy. Cristina Wendel has also been for several years a ”trusted advisor” with respect to any labour or employment matter. Her advice is sound, thoughtful, and practical.’
‘Amjad Khadhair and Simon Elzen-Hoskyn have, as associates, worked on several of the more difficult matters we’ve handled. Their involvement gives me comfort that issues have been thoughtfully and thoroughly considered. I’ve come to trust their analysis and recommendations.’
‘The success of a team is greatly the ability to assign the right people to do the right tasks, and ensure the (common) goal is fully understood and communication is constant. In the mandate that we gave to Dentons, that ability was clearly demonstrated.’
‘Dentons has a team with good familiarity of the ICSID arbitration methods and procedures and a good support team here in Calgary who well understand the oil and gas industry.’
‘Denton’s team are meticulous and understand the importance of limiting the budget to contest our arbitration proceedings.’
‘Excellent legal analysis and advocacy Prompt action and careful attention to details. Very good client management and result oriented. Top echelon relative to other firms.’
‘David Wotherspoon is very knowledgeable of the law and strategies. Great leader and delegates work as appropriate to get the best result for the clients at the least cost. Top draw in Intellectual Property.’
Key clients
BP Canada Energy Group ULC
Canadian National Railway Company
Enbridge Inc.
FCA Canada Inc.
Husky Oil Operations
Edison S.p.A.
PetroChina Canada
Sunshine Oilsands
Niko Resources (Bangladesh)
Norrep Investment Management Group Inc.
Husky Oil Operations
Total S.A.
Wal-Mart
Amazon
Sumitomo Chemical Company
Valent Canada Inc.
Deloitte
Toronto Hydro Corporation
Honda
Microsoft
Lenovo
Canadian National Railway Company
Sleeman Breweries
Amazon
National Dental Examining Board
TELUS
Primary Poultry Processors Association of British Columbia
HSBC
Russell Industries Corp.
Well Health Technologies
Green Light Solutions
Knight Piésold
UPS SCS (United Parcel Service Canada)
Avis Budget Group
Subaru Canada, Inc.
Expedia, Travelocity and Hotels.com
FCA Canada Inc.
Audible Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented claimant Niko Resources (Bangladesh) in two ICSID arbitration proceedings.
- Represented Amazon in three significant class actions, including in a case regarding an alleged conspiracy with Apple and Apple Canada relating to the sale of digital audiobooks.
- Defended the National Dental Examining Board in an appeal brought by an individual trained as a dentist in Iran, who was seeking to practice dentistry in Canada but failed the equivalency exam.
DLA Piper (Canada) LLP
DLA Piper (Canada) LLP’s Canadian dispute resolution practice is fully integrated into the wider firm’s global practice, which fuels a significant volume of multi-jurisdictional litigation. Domestically, the group represents a diverse portfolio of clients, including major corporations, private companies, educational institutions and professional regulatory bodies. In British Columbia, national department co-chair John Landry advises on civil and regulatory litigation, while Vancouver chair David Neave is recognized for his experience in class actions. Contacts in Ontario include national co-chair David Foulds and impressive associate Simon McCleary. Heather Treacy QC is a key contact in Alberta, as is counsel Katrina Edgerton-McGhan, who advises on litigation, regulatory work and insurance.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Imperial Oil Resources
Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors
Petroleum Services Association of Canada
Brewster Inc.
Canada Pipeline Accessories Company
Leavitt Machinery General Partnership
FilterBoxx Packaged Water Solutions Inc.
Provalcid Inc.
Nutreco Canada Inc.
Canadian Western Trust Company
Marriott International Inc.
Bank of Nova Scotia
Toronto-Dominion Bank
Rogers Communications
Atomic Energy Canada
Hubei Huachangda Intelligent Equipment Co and Valiant Corporation
Raymond James
Rifco Inc.
Aer Lingus
Vivid Seats
HEXO Corp.
Campbell Soup Company
Computershare Trust Company of Canada
AEES Inc.
Brit Insurance Holdings
Swiss Reinsurance Company
Bristol-Myers Squibb
British Airways
Ford
Deutsche Lufthansa Aktiengesellschaft
Yukon Energy Corporation
Pfizer
Air Canada
Elna Co.
Procureure Générale du Québec
Fiserv (acquired First Data in 2019)
City of Delta – Metro Vancouver
Aer Lingus
Work highlights
- Represented Canadian Western Trust in a dispute related to registered retirement savings plans, initiated by over 130 plaintiffs.
- Acted for Rifco, as the target corporation, in COVID 19-related material adverse effects litigation stemming from a terminated M&A transaction.
- Advised Bristol-Myers Squibb on five separate opioid class actions.
Farris LLP
British Columbia firm Farris LLP houses a broad dispute resolution practice spread across its platforms in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria. A solid performer in corporate and commercial litigation, the firm’s regional focus also ensures a significant volume of energy, environmental and Indigenous law cases. Experienced litigator Ludmila Herbst QC is recommended, particularly for resource-related matters and constitutional disputes.
Fasken
Fasken’s sizeable national practice ranks among the best in British Columbia, where its deep and experienced bench handles a wide variety of civil, commercial and public law cases, both in court and in arbitration. The department also has a robust platform in Ontario, as well as growing teams in Alberta and Quebec. National litigation head Geoffrey Cowper QC sits in Vancouver and is recognized as a leader in complex disputes. The Vancouver group also includes senior litigator Tracey Cohen QC and associate Alexandra Mitretodis. Toronto-based Laura Cooper chairs the Ontario litigation group and is recommended for her experience in class actions. Sarah Armstrong is another key contact in Toronto, and senior litigator Marc-André Fabien Ad E is a name to note in Montréal. Also of note, the Montréal group was recently boosted by the arrival of commercial litigation partner Sébastien Richemont from Woods LLP; and the Calgary office was also bolstered by the hire of Darren Reed from Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP.
Practice head(s):
Laura Cooper; Geoffrey Cowper QC; Helen Low QC; Gulu Punia; Eric Simard; Karen Wyke
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Armstrong; Tracey Cohen QC; Marc-André Fabien Ad E; Alexandra Mitretodis; Darren Reed
Key clients
Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton
Quanta Services Inc.
Royal Bank of Canada
Nevsun Resources
British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority
TELUS Communications
Microsoft
Mount Polley Mining Corporation and Imperial Metals Corporation
YouYi Group Holdings (Canada)
Investors in the League IGW Real Estate Investment Trust and other League Assets Corp.
Wastech Services
Nextus Development and Hun Bae Kim
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
Allergan
Sandoz Canada Inc. and Sandoz GmbH
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Air Canada
Export Development Canada
Capital One Services (Canada)
FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
Daimler AG; Mercedes-Benz Canada
Special Committee of Independent Directors of Aphria Inc.
Equifax
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
York Region Condominium Corporation
Ivaco Rolling Mills
Detour Gold Corporation
Quebecor
Thales
Mercedes
HSBC Canada
Transat
Enercon Canada
Canadian Pacific Railway
Intact
Orano Mining
Merck
BMTC
Arthur Gallagher & Co. (GPL)
Agropur/Ultima
Bombardier Recreational Products
Airbus Helicopters Canada
Rio Tinto Alcan
Investissement Québec
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec
Work highlights
- Advised Airbus Helicopters’ entities based in Canada, France and the US in a C$100m dispute arising from the grounding of certain models of Airbus Helicopters by various international aviation authorities.
- Represented Nevsun Resources in defending allegations that it entered into a commercial venture with ‘the rogue and essentially lawless state of Eritrea’ to develop the Bisha mine.
- Acted for Transat in a heavily disputed battle for the sale of the company.
Goodmans LLP
Toronto-based Goodmans LLP operates a deliberately lean dispute resolution group, which is routinely involved in high-profile, bet-the-company cases. The department combines general commercial litigation experience with specialist expertise in several core market segments, including securities, competition, construction and technology. Seasoned litigator Alan Mark is a key contact and is sought after for his strong skill sets in corporate and commercial litigation, class actions and electricity law and regulation. Other key figures include David Conklin, who stands out for his experience in commercial and securities litigation, and Julie Rosenthal, who, over the past year, has led on multiple of the team's most significant class actions and competition-related claims. Up-and-coming partner Peter Kolla is also recommended, as is associate Michael Wilson, who recently rejoined the firm following a 20-month stint at the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General, where he was chief of staff.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
David Conklin; Peter Kolla; Alan Mark; Michael Wilson; Julie Rosenthal
Key clients
Paulson & Co.
Chevron Canada
Vancouver Airport Authority
Former Senior Officers of CIBC
CI Investments Inc.
Atlantic Lottery Corporation
Former Directors of Maricann Group Inc.
Simon & Schuster (Canada)
The Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ and Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ (Canada)
Kew Media Group
North York Chrysler/North York Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat
SAP Canada Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented former senior officers of CIBC in a securities class action.
- Acted for Atlantic Lottery Corporation in defending a class action related to the operation of video lottery terminals in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Successfully defended the Vancouver Airport Authority in an abuse of dominance application brought by the Commissioner of Competition.
Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG’s litigation group is particularly active in Ontario, where it benefits from platforms in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton and the Waterloo Region. It also maintains broad teams in Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec. The wider firm’s first-class IP practice marks it as a premier choice for IP disputes, while other areas of experience include insurance-related disputes, construction litigation, energy claims, financial services disputes and Indigenous law matters. Scott Kugler steers the national commercial litigation and class action groups from Toronto and handles the full suite of commercial disputes. David Bishop leads the Calgary advocacy group and is highly regarded for his broad expertise, spanning corporate litigation, insurance disputes and environmental cases, among other matters. Warren Foley, also in Calgary, is recommended for his focus on energy, product liability and construction disputes. Other key contacts include Vancouver advocacy head Martin Palleson and Guy Poitras, who was recently appointed head of the litigation group in Montréal. Sahil Shoor is a recommended associate in the Waterloo Region.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
David Bishop; Warren Foley; Martin Palleson; Guy Poitras; Sahil Shoor
Testimonials
‘For a large/interprovincial firm, Gowlings knows how to add a personal touch. Any team member I have dealt with has been efficient and very precise in their work.’
‘The legal recommendations given by Gowlings are always extremely appreciated, as they are straight to the point. They do not add a lot of ”fluff” to their legal opinions and recommendations which makes it very appealing for busy clients to be able to easily understand and agree with their recommended strategy for a matter.’
Key clients
Skipthedishes Restaurant Services Inc.
Siemens Canada
Government of Alberta
Crescent Point Energy
Yangarra Resources
Associated Engineering
Petrobank Energy & Resources
Hudye Group Inc.
Cor Group Inc.
Keyera Corporation
Central Fund of Canada Limited (CFCL)
Pengrowth Energy Corporation
Deep Well Services
Preformed Line Products (Canada)
‘Namgis First Nation
BC Hydro
Corus and Cineflix Media Inc.
Farmobile
First Bauxite Corporation
International Sail and Power Academy
Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nation
LOOPShare
Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
Pylon International
Siemens Canada
United Airlines
Western Oilfield Equipment Rentals
Senvion Canada
Sanimax
Lloyd’s Underwriters professional liability insurers of WSP Canada Inc.
Bell Canada
CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)
Ultramar
City of Hamilton
Newterra Group
TD Insurance
Amazon Web Services
Colt Resources Inc.
Home Trust Company
Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada
NAV CANADA
Seven Hills Group LLC
City of Ottawa
Taggart Construction
Ottawa Medical Square
Urbandale Corporation
Work highlights
- Counsel to ‘Namgis First Nation on two judicial reviews at the Federal Court of Canada.
- Advised Lloyd’s underwriters, as professional liability insurers of WSP Canada, in proceedings relating the construction of 180 social housing units in the North of Quebec.
- Represented the City of Hamilton in a class action brought by motorists who were involved in a motor vehicle accident on Hamilton’s Red Hill Valley Parkway.
Hakemi & Ridgedale LLP
Hakemi & Ridgedale LLP’s ‘cohesive and very thorough’ team stands out for its ‘genuinely personal commitment’. The Vancouver-based litigation boutique is adept in a wide range of contentious matters, with notable experience in corporate and commercial disputes, securities litigation and administrative law. Tom Hakemi focuses on business disputes, fraud cases, defamation and competition and co-heads the practice alongside Lisa Ridgedale.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Miaofei Pan
IG Image Group, Laura Hansen and Sherry-Lynne Fedorchuk
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Miaofei Pan before the BC Court of Appeal in a defamation case.
- Successfully defended IG Image Group in employment-related claims.
Hunter Litigation Chambers
Hunter Litigation Chambers’ reputation in dispute resolution is reflected in its diverse case list, which blends a variety of complex commercial, criminal, regulatory and constitutional law matters. A popular choice for challenging cases, the firm’s deep bench—especially at mid-level—allows it to ably handle large, resource-heavy files. Among the key contacts, Randal Kaardal QC is noted for commercial litigation and labour and employment matters, and Claire Hunter QC ranks among the BC market’s most highly regarded up-and-coming litigators and is recommended for her diverse commercial litigation experience. Brent Olthuis and Ryan Dalziel are also impressive next-generation litigators, while Rebecca Robb is a talented associate.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
British Columbia Lottery Corporation
Canadian Lumber Standards Accreditation Board
Taseko Mines
Baker Hughes
Ministry of Justice
Metro Vancouver
Canada Dry Motts Inc.
Eastern Platinum
BC Securities Commission
City of Richmond
Director of Civil Forfeiture
Prokam Enterprises
BC Chicken Marketing Board
Terus Constructions
Container World Forwarding Services
BC School Superintendents Association
Canadian Forest Products
International Forest Products
Teal Cedar Products
Canadian Overseas Log & Lumber
Taan Forest Limited Partnership
College of Physicians & Surgeons of BC
Real Estate Counsel of BC
Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia
Peter Kiewit & Sons ULC
Work highlights
- Acted forTaseko Mines in an environmental law case against British Columbia.
- Represented the City of Vancouver in efforts to commence a judicial review of the approval of the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion project.
- Represented the BC Chicken Marketing Board in successfully defending appeals to the Farm Industry Review Board, from both the chicken processors and growers, from the Board’s decision to set a pricing formula for chicken.
IMK LLP
Montreal-based IMK LLP is widely considered among the leading litigation boutiques in Quebec. The 21-lawyer group covers the full scope of dispute resolution matters, from estate and trust law cases, through to securities litigation and major class actions. High-profile litigator Doug Mitchell handles a mix of commercial and constitutional law disputes.
Practice head(s):
JSS Barristers
JSS Barristers has broad experience in complex litigation, but is perhaps best known for its reputation in energy and construction cases, in line with its Calgary headquarters. Other sweet spots include data protection and class actions, as well as general commercial litigation. Key contacts include Carsten Jensen QC, who is highly regarded for his premier expertise in oil and gas disputes and class actions; senior litigator Bryan Duguid QC; and class actions co-head Kajal Ervin. Associate Cassandra Sutter is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
National Oilwell Varco
Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights
WorleyParsons Canada Services
MasTec Inc.
Genco Place Properties
Agar Corporation
Fly R+F Consulting
Inter Pipeline
Apache Corporation
AltaGas Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented National Oilwell Varco in a C$90m case arising out of a corporate acquisition.
- Advised the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights on challenging a recent federal firearms ban.
- Acted for the Government of Alberta on a multibillion-dollar lawsuit against the tobacco industry aimed at recovering smoking-related health care costs.
Lavery, de Billy
Lavery, de Billy is one of the largest independent law firms in Quebec. Largely active on behalf of clients in the areas of manufacturing, financial services and real estate, the team has extensive experience in a variety of commercial litigation, including class actions. Montréal-based Jonathan Warin heads up the practice group.
Practice head(s):
Lawson Lundell LLP
Lawson Lundell LLP’s focus on Western Canada marks it as a popular choice for clients in core regional industries, including mining, energy, forestry and technology. The group is also distinguished by its ability to lean on the wider firm’s robust offerings in complementary practice areas, such as Indigenous and environmental law. The department is split between offices in BC and Alberta, with its Vancouver team remaining the most prominent. Craig Ferris QC is a name to note in Vancouver; he is recommended for his experience in shareholder remedies, product liability, mining litigation and financial services, particularly pension disputes. In Calgary, Michael Donaldson has a strong record in energy litigation.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Teck Metals
PacNet Services
Baffinland Iron Mines
Imperial Distributors Canada Inc.
Chevron Canada
Crescent Point Energy
TransAlta Corporation
Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP)
Pieridae Energy
Canadian Natural Resources
Work highlights
- Represented TransAlta Generation Partnership in litigation against the Balancing Pool concerning the scope and nature of arbitration proceedings under Alberta’s legislated power purchase arrangements.
- Advised Imperial Distributors Canada on litigation commenced by the Province of British Columbia seeking to recover health care costs related to the opioid crisis.
- Represented Teck Metals, as one of the defendants, in product liability claims related to two sulphuric acid spills.
Lax O'Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP
First-class litigation boutique Lax O'Sullivan Lisus Gottlieb LLP houses some of the best trial lawyers in the country. The Toronto-based team advises on complex commercial and public law disputes and is routinely involved in high-profile, precedent-setting cases. Jonathan Lisus is highly sought after for commercial and public law cases, with a strong recent run in infrastructure and PPP-related litigation. Other senior names to note include Matthew Gottlieb, who ranks among the market’s leading trial lawyers; and Terrence O’Sullivan , who is recognized nationally for his reputation in landmark disputes. The firm’s future stars include Shaun Laubman, Rahool Agarwal (‘very strong in complex disputes’) and Paul Fruitman, who has built up an impressive track record in high-stakes cases. Lars Brusven is a standout associate.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Rahool Agarwal; Lars Brusven; Paul Fruitman; Shaun Laubman; Terrence O’Sullivan
Key clients
Sears Canada
Nortel Networks Corp.
KingSett Capital
Canadian Overseas Petroleum
Mizrahi Developments Inc.
PWC Canada (PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP)
KingSett Mortgage Corporation
J. Douglas Cunningham QC, in his capacity as litigation Trustee to Sears Canada
The Honourable Warren K. Winkler, in his capacity as the Tobacco Claimants Coordinator in the Imperial Tobacco CCAA proceeding
Purdue Pharma
Trump Organization
Praxair Canada Inc.
Quadrangle Group
Qikiqtani Inuit Association
Parc-IX
Minotar Holdings Inc
Canadian Network Operators Consortium Inc.
Coxswain Row Capital Corporation
Strada Crush
Work highlights
- Acted as counsel to the court-appointed mediator in the Imperial Tobacco, JTI-MacDonald Corp and Rothmans, Benson & Hedges CCAA proceedings.
- Represented the litigation trustee to Sears Canada in pursuing claims brought on behalf of Sears Canada against certain former directors and shareholders of the company.
- Represented Canadian Network Operators Consortium in an appeal by incumbent telecoms companies from a decision of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission concerning the provision of wholesale high-speed internet services.
Lenczner Slaght LLP
A dominant Toronto-based boutique, Lenczner Slaght LLP is regarded by many as one of Canada’s leading litigation firms. Recognized across the country as a force in complex disputes, the group’s deep bench, broad industry experience and pre-eminent record in cutting-edge cases ensures that it is regularly involved in many of the market’s most high-profile matters. Peter Griffin is widely acknowledged as one of Canada’s foremost litigators and is noted for his wide-ranging experience, including commercial litigation, class actions and professional liability cases. Managing partner Tom Curry is another standout litigator, lauded for his expertise at trial and appeals. Monique Jilesen had a banner year, which saw her lead a significant share of the firm’s headline cases; she co-heads the department alongside Eli Lederman. Other key names include Ronald Slaght QC and Peter Osborne. The firm also houses a talented band of younger lawyers, which includes associate Christopher Yung.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Tom Curry; Peter Griffin; Peter Osborne; Ronald Slaght QC; Christopher Yung
Key clients
Annapolis Group Inc.
Aecon Mining Construction Services
The Ebrahimi Family
The Board of Trustees of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund
Ernst & Young re: Quadriga
Sears Holding Corporation
Elfriede Stronach
IBM Canada
TRW Canada, and other companies within the ZF group of companies
Board of Directors of TransAlta Corporation
Easton’s Group of Hotels Inc. (Zia Abbas et al v Icona Developments Inc)
1945086 Ontario Inc. and 1945087 Ontario Inc. (vendors associated with Liberty Development Corporation)
Crosslinx transit solutions constructors
EllisDon
Global Container Terminals
Work highlights
- Represented US-based Sears Holdings Corporation in four Canadian class actions and related CCAA insolvency proceedings in Canada.
- Advised all ten directors of the board of TransAlta Corporation on defending a $750m oppression action seeking to unwind an M&A transaction.
- Acted for Easton’s Group of Hotels in an action brought by 647 condominium purchasers following the termination of a condominium development project.
Lerners LLP
Lerners LLP houses a 34-lawyer strong dispute resolution practice, which is split between its offices in London and Toronto. The group has experience across the full spread of civil and commercial matters, with real estate litigation, insurance disputes and administrative law cases among its key areas. London practice lead Carolyn Brandow and Toronto group head William Pepall are the names to note.
Practice head(s):
McCarthy Tétrault
McCarthy Tétrault’s commercial litigation group is commended by many for its ‘truly national practice’ and ‘very deep bench’. The firm is a regular player in precedent-setting cases at all levels of court and administrative tribunals and is highly regarded for its standout expertise in the areas of financial services, life sciences, mining, energy and retail. The department is particularly effective in Toronto, where Paul Steep is sought after for securities litigation, including class actions. Also recommended in Toronto are Sarit Batner, who has developed a significant trial and appellate litigation practice, and increasingly prominent litigator Eric Block. In Vancouver, Michael Feder QC has risen to become a force in the BC market, with recent cases covering regulatory, constitutional and product liability matters, including class actions. Miranda Lam and Aidan Cameron have both been highlighted as future stars in the BC team, while Patrick Williams is an accomplished associate. Simon Potter Ad E retired in Montréal, but the firm remains strong at the top level in Quebec, with standout litigators including Mason Poplaw. In Alberta, Sean Smyth QC is recommended for natural resources-related matters, as is talented associate Sandra Aigbinode Lange.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Sandra Aigbinode Lange; Sarit Batner; Aidan Cameron; Eric Block; Michael Feder QC; Miranda Lam; Mason Poplaw; Sean Smyth QC; Paul Steep; Patrick Williams
Testimonials
‘The firm is simply the best, they have the brightest and most responsive partners who are wonderful to work with.’
‘Jill Yates in particular is outstanding, she provides timely responses and give practical and measured advise. She manages conflicts in a quick manner – almost immediately so decisions can be made.’
‘McCarthy Tétrault has a truly national practice with a deep bench. I have worked with a lot of lawyers in Canada and would say that McT practices the most like big firm US lawyers would be used to.’
‘Mike Feder is the best lawyer I have worked with in Canada. Top drawer smart, creative, great judgment, and terrific on his feet. He is the full package. He is also wonderful to work with. Sarit Batner is a tough as nails litigator who can’t wait for the next cross examination. Paul Steep is smooth as silk in the courtroom, very savvy, and has excellent judgment. Deb Templer is a young partner to watch.’
‘The team is deep and committed to its clients. They try to put the most efficient team on litigation matters.’
‘Miranda Lam provides excellent service. She inspires confidence in her analysis and guidance and is always very responsive.’
‘McCarthy’s has a very deep bench when it relates to commercial litigation. The Vancouver team is top in class and is able to leverage experts in other areas of law given it is a multi-faceted national firm.’
‘Jill Yates was very quick to grasp the commercial / legal technical issues and perform a deep dive into the forestry industry and related complex regulatory and labour relations environment. She was available 24/7 to support me in relation to internal strategy and discussions. She was a very effective advocate when it came to trial and did not let the other side push us around using bullying tactics. She did an exceptional job standing up for our rights. This was a 5 year lengthy and complex process and we were ultimately successful at trial.’
‘Andrea Gray was extremely diligent in managing the documentation flow, working with witnesses, conducting research, drafting material and for bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the issues. She was a highly valued member of the team and challenged us in a very positive way.’
Key clients
Direct Energy Marketing
Enbridge
Cenovus Energy Inc.
Repsol Oil & Gas Canada Inc.
Larsen & Toubro
Syngenta
ENGIE Fabricom Canada Inc.
Toyota Tsusho Wheatland
Wood Canada
Crescent Point Energy Corp.
MEG Energy Corp.
City of Medicine Hat
Shell Canada
Orr-Ewing Estate
Aux Sable Liquid Products LP, Aux Sable Liquid Products Inc and Aux Sable Canada Ltd.
The National Football League
Smucker Foods of Canada
Carillion
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Telus Communications
Juul Labs
PwC
Ernst & Young
KPMG
Access Copyright
GrowthWorks Canadian Fund
Aphria
PayPal
Bell Canada / BCE
Philip Morris International / Rothmans, Benson & Hedges
Desjardins Financial Group
Bombardier
Laurentian Bank / B2B Bank
Glencore Canada
Abbott Laboratories
Nissan
National Bank / National Bank Financial
Québec Port Authority and IMTT-Québec
TimberWest Forest
Toronto-Dominion Bank
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Endo Pharmaceuticals and Paladin Labs
Tahoe Resources
Railway Association of Canada
Work highlights
- Represented The National Football League and Bell Canada in two administrative law appeals, in which the Supreme Court found that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission did not have the authority to exempt the Super Bowl from long-standing regulations that apply to other programming.
- Acted for Uber in two high-profile cases attempting to reduce or eliminate its operations in British Columbia.
- Represented Glencore Canada and Xstrata in a billion-dollar class action against Canadian Electrolytic Zinc concerning the accidental discharge of sulphur trioxide which occurred at a zinc refinery.
McEwan Partners
Since its formation in 2017, McEwan Partners has hit the ground running, with sources affirming it has ‘successfully emerged as a leading BC boutique’. The Vancouver-based firm is routinely involved in significant regional and national cases, with an emphasis on corporate, commercial and securities litigation. Widely revered name partner Kenneth McEwan QC is regarded by many as the ‘dean of the BC litigation Bar’. Robert Cooper QC, who has a focus on corporate, commercial and securities litigation, and Craig Dennis QC are also senior litigators. Up-and-coming partner Emily Kirkpatrick is recommended for civil and administrative law matters, while Eric Aitken is a promising associate.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘McEwan Partners is up there. The firm is really doing well and has successfully emerged as a leading BC boutique.’
‘Kenneth McEwan is now the best litigator in BC, in my view.’
‘Kenneth McEwan has established himself as the dean of the BC litigation bar.’
Key clients
Concord Pacific Acquisitions
Granite Creek Copper
Keltic (Brighouse) Development
The Law Society of British Columbia
MFC Bancorp
Richberry Group
Endnight Games
McKesson Canada
Ticketmaster Canada
Delta Land Group
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Concord Pacific Acquisitions and Terry Hui in a case clarifying the elements of the tort of abuse of process.
- Advised Granite Creek Copper on opposing an application for a mandatory injunction to restrain the transfer of a block of shares and corporate control.
- Successfully appealed an injunction which ordered a co-tenant of a multimillion-dollar waterfront property to participate in the rebuild of a home destroyed by fire.
McMillan LLP
McMillan LLP’s national litigation group has a presence in the firm's offices across the country. The diverse group handles the full range of commercial litigation, class action and arbitration, with a strong record in competition and product liability matters. National dispute resolution co-chair David Kent is highly regarded for class actions work. Benjamin Bathgate, who co-leads the fraud practice, is noted for his experience in white-collar criminal cases.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Nathanson, Schachter & Thompson
British Columbia’s premier litigation boutique, Nathanson, Schachter & Thompson impresses with the breadth of its expertise and depth of its core team. A frequent participant in landmark regulatory cases, the group is often engaged by the Law Society of BC in matters involving major professional issues. On the commercial litigation front, the group has strong recent experience in real estate, construction and shareholder disputes. Irwin Nathanson QC is widely recognized as one of BC’s most capable litigators and focuses on corporate and commercial litigation. Stephen Schachter QC is another high-profile figure in the market. The group also includes up-and-coming partner Peter Senkpiel, who already has extensive trial and appellate experience, and associate Caitlin Ohama-Darcus.
Other key lawyers:
Caitlin Ohama-Darcus; Irwin Nathanson QC; Stephen Schachter QC; Peter Senkpiel
Key clients
Law Society of British Columbia
Argus Properties
Rising Sun Investments
AdvanTec Global Innovations
Able Solutions
Raicon Developments
Pacnet Services
Hong Leong Oei, Hong Kong Expo Holdings and Canadian Metropolitan Properties Corporation
Greater Vancouver Sewerage and Drainage District
Federal Express Canada
LTS Infrastructure Services Limited Partnership
Work highlights
- Successfully defended Hong Leong Oei, Hong Kong Expo Holdings and Canadian Metropolitan Properties Corporation in a C$350m claim brought by Concord Pacific Acquisitions regarding a purported transaction to develop a significant piece of waterfront land.
- Represented four individuals in a breach of trust case stemming from the winding up of four family trusts that held significant hotel properties in BC and the US.
- Advised Raicon Developments on a claim involving alleged partnership interests in a major property development project.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright’s practice packs a punch in litigation involving heavily regulated industries, particularly infrastructure, transport, financial services, and energy and natural resources matters. In Calgary, Clarke Hunter QC is a standout name for energy litigation and regulatory matters. Calgary-based senior associate Kaitlin Long is also noted for energy, regulatory, environmental and Indigenous law issues. National group head Daniel Bennett QC is a key contact in Vancouver and is well versed in commercial, real estate and natural resource-related disputes. Orestes Pasparakis, who co-chairs the Canadian special situations team, is recommended in Toronto and has a solid record in shareholder activism and securities litigation. The firm’s Quebec litigation offering continues to rank among the market’s best, with Montréal-based global international arbitration co-head Pierre Bienvenu Ad E widely recognized for his experience in complex cases. Also recommended in Montréal are Sophie Melchers, who has an emphasis on securities litigation, and regulated industries specialist Jean Bertrand Ad E.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Bennett QC; Beth Allard; Ray Chartier; Alan Merskey; Tate McLeod; Eric Lefebvre; Christian Roy
Other key lawyers:
Jean Bertrand Ad E; Pierre Bienvenu Ad E; Clarke Hunter QC; Kaitlin Long; Sophie Melchers; Orestes Pasparakis
Key clients
Chevron Corporation
Metro Inc.
VimpelCom (now VEON)
Rio Tinto Alcan
Merit Energy Company LLC
FTI Consulting Canada as Court-appointed monitor of Sears Canada
Justice Canada
Symantec Corporation
Québec Port Authority
Everest Insurance Company of Canada
Chubb Insurance Company of Canada
Airbus Canada Limited Partnership
Transat / Groupe Mach
Hydro-Québec
Ernst and Young
SNC-Lavalin
HEXO
Desjardins Securities
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Chevron in obtaining the dismissal of an action brought by Ecuadorian plaintiffs seeking enforcement in Canada of a $9.5bn Ecuadorian judgment.
- Successfully defended VimpelCom (now VEON) in a C$1.3bn claim and appeal brought by Catalyst Capital Group for breach of contract and tortious misconduct.
- Advised Rio Tinto in a landmark Aboriginal rights case brought by First Nations concerning Rio Tinto’s hydroelectric generation facility.
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Corporate heavyweight Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP fields a leading national class actions practice, with strong regional footholds in Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. Though it is best known for its record in class actions, the group advises on the full spread of matters, from commercial litigation through to constitutional and environmental law cases, with significant expertise in multi-jurisdictional disputes. In Toronto, Larry Lowenstein is highly sought after for his first-class experience in corporate and securities litigation, including class actions. Deborah Glendinning is another high-profile name for class actions. Shawn Irving, who primarily acts for corporate, banking and financial sector clients, is also noted in Toronto. In Calgary, Maureen Killoran QC is highly regarded for her energy and natural resources litigation practice. Calgary-based future star Melanie Gaston has a focus on energy and construction work, along with securities and insolvency cases. Contacts in Montréal include Éric Préfontaine and Céline Legendre, who sits in both the class action defence, and privacy and data management groups.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Melanie Gaston; Deborah Glendinning; Shawn Irving; Maureen Killoran QC; Céline Legendre; Larry Lowenstein; Éric Préfontaine
Key clients
Trans Mountain Pipeline ULC and Trans Mountain Corporation
Canadian Natural Resources
Williams Group and some related entities, Inter Pipeline and some related entities
TransAlta
Enbridge and Trans Mountain Pipeline ULC (Joint Retainer)
Alliance Canada Marketing along with its parent companies (Enbridge, Pembina Pipeline, and Williams)
The Province of Manitoba
Chemtrade Logistics
ConocoPhillips Canada, Anadarko Energy, Equinor (formerly, Statoil), Repsol, and Nalcor Energy
Imperial Oil
TransCanada Pipelines
Corus Radio
Chevron
Economical Mutual Insurance Company
Boston Scientific Corporation and Boston Scientific Ltd.
Dundee Kilmer Developments Limited Partnership
Atlas Global Healthcare
Bondfield Construction Company
Royal Bank of Canada
Richard Coffey
Anova Fertility
Wayland Group Corp, Maricann Inc. and NanoLeaf Technologies Inc.
Dream Office LP
Fidelity National Financial Canada Company
Manulife Financial
Colacem Canada Inc.
Veolia Health Partner
Amex Bank of Canada and Toronto-Dominion Bank
Irving Oil
Aimia Inc. and Aimia Canada Inc.
HSBC Bank Canada
Trouw Nutrition Canada Inc.
The Attorney General for the Recovery of Funds of Canada
Laurentian Bank
Hydro-Québec
UN1F1ED2 Global Packaging Group, LLC
Association of Ontario Chicken Processors
Lightspeed POS Inc. and Dax Dasilva
Corporation Financière All-Star Inc. et al.
The Stars Group Inc.
The Bank of Nova Scotia and Tangerine Bank
Work highlights
- Represented Trans Mountain in all court proceedings concerning the Trans Mountain Expansion project before the Supreme Court of British Columbia, British Columbia Court of Appeal, Federal Court of Canada, Federal Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
- Defended Facebook in numerous class actions, including privacy and securities class actions.
- Represented the Attorney General for the Recovery of Funds of Canada in civil litigation filed to recover the funds associated with the sponsorship programme.
Paliare Roland Rosenberg Rothstein LLP
Paliare Roland Rosenberg Rothstein LLP is held up by sources as a ‘smart and dedicated group of litigators, who are passionate about what they do’. The Toronto boutique handles a broad scope of contentious matters, with notable expertise in commercial litigation, class actions, professional discipline cases and labour disputes. Highlighted for its ‘strong mix of senior and junior litigators’, the group includes standout litigators Chris Paliare and Linda Rothstein. On the class actions front, Odette Soriano is noted for her ‘spectacular problem-solving instincts’. Paul Davis is a recommended associate in the practice group.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Class of RRSP (registered retirement savings plan) account holders, and holders of similar registered accounts, with BMO Nesbitt Burns, BMO InvestorLine, and BMO Trust Company
Class of franchisees of Shoppers Drug Mart
Class of users of the PayPal payment system in respect of transactions involving currency conversions
Class of all persons who currently hold or held valid Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Access Passports as of July 13, 2017
Class of investors in Southern China Livestock
Work highlights
- Represented a class of RRSP account holders, and holders of similar registered accounts, in obtaining a summary judgment for breach of trust and breach of fiduciary duty in a class action against BMO Trust, BMO Nesbitt Burns and BMO InvestorLine.
- Engaged by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice to act as amicus curiae on a motion for settlement and fee approval.
- Acted as class counsel to Shoppers Drug Mart franchisees across Canada (excluding Quebec) in a case alleging that Shoppers Drug Mart breached franchise agreements.
Peacock Linder Halt & Mack LLP
Calgary-based Peacock Linder Halt & Mack LLP focuses exclusively on litigation and dispute resolution matters, acting for a variety of clients ranging from individuals through to global corporations. A distinguished name for energy disputes, the firm’s Alberta headquarters also generates a significant share of environmental, construction and administrative law cases. Perry Mack QC is a contact in the team.
Practice head(s):
Patrick Peacock QC; Peter Linder QC; Edward Halt QC; Perry Mack QC
Robert Fleming Lawyers
Vancouver-based Robert Fleming Lawyers is recognized for its record in complex litigation and fraud matters. In particular, it continues to represent Equustek against Google in claims following on from their earlier high-profile battle concerning the court’s ability to control global content on the internet. Robert Fleming is the name to note.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Equustek Solutions Inc.
GardaWorld
Carlos Navarro
Sutton First West Realty
Moodle
Michael and Miranda Zhu
N-Krypt International
XTL Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented Equustek Solutions in the underlying trial of the conspiracy and intellectual property theft claim that was the foundation of the Google v. Equustek dispute.
- Acted for New Jersey’s XTL in a claim against a British Columbia-based manufacturer to recover C$1m paid on a cancelled contract.
Stikeman Elliott LLP
Stikeman Elliott LLP’s national practice has a stellar reputation for domestic and multi-jurisdictional class actions, particularly complex competition, consumer protection and financial services-related cases. It is equally adept in commercial litigation across a number of core market segments, leveraging its ability to work alongside other highly ranked departments across the full-service firm. The group’s Quebec offering is considered by many to be among the best in the market, with Montréal litigation lead Éric Mongeau respected for his experience in the areas of energy, transport, telecoms and construction. Yves Martineau, who excels in class actions, is also highly regarded in Montréal. Eliot Kolers spearheads the Toronto team and has an emphasis on commercial disputes, competition matters and securities litigation. Other names to note in Toronto include seasoned litigator and national department co-chair David Byers; Katherine Kay, who is widely revered for her expertise in competition litigation and class actions; and associate Sinziana Hennig. David Brown heads the team in Vancouver, with Melanie Teetaert recommended for energy litigation. Michael Mestinsek is the key contact in Calgary.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
David Byers; Sinziana Hennig; Katherine Kay; Yves Martineau; Melanie Teetaert
Stockwoods LLP Barristers
Widely hailed as a leader in securities litigation, Stockwoods LLP Barristers regularly represents clients in Ontario Securities Commission investigations and proceedings, as well as in related class actions. The Toronto-based boutique also has strong offerings in civil and commercial litigation, criminal matters and administrative law cases. Paul Le Vay is highly regarded for his specialist securities litigation experience.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Torys
Torys’ dispute resolution group is active in high-stakes litigation across the country, with a leading class action practice complemented by specialist offerings in financial services, product liability and IP. The firm’s position in the Ontario market is particularly commanding, but it also fields an increasingly prominent team in Montréal. Toronto-based litigator Sheila Block has built a standout record in precedent-setting cases and successfully represented Ontario First Nations Limited Partnership (a partnership of 132 of the 133 First Nations in Ontario) in arbitration brought against the Province of Ontario and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation concerning breaches of a gaming revenue sharing agreement. Other senior experts in Toronto include Patricia Jackson, who is a premier name for class actions, and department chair Linda Plumpton. Also in Toronto are Gillian Dingle, who coordinates the department, and senior associate Sarah Whitmore. Christopher Richter and counsel Geneviève Bertrand are recommended in Montréal.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Sheila Block; Geneviève Bertrand; Patricia Jackson; Christopher Richter; Sylvie Rodrigue Ad E; Sarah Whitmore
Key clients
Stronach Consulting Corp.
Anson Group Canada, Anson Investments LP, Anson Capital LP, Anson Investments Master Fund LP, Anson Advisors Inc., Anson Catalyst Master Fund LP
Resolute FP Canada
Brookfield Infrastructure Fund IV GP LLC
BlackBerry
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada
Parkland Fuel Corporation
TMX Group
Ontario First Nations (2008) LP
The City of Saint John
Work highlights
- Represented Stronach Consulting in defending litigation concerning the control and management of The Stronach Group.
- Acted for several hockey leagues, and their member hockey teams, in class actions in Ontario, Alberta and Quebec brought by current and former major junior hockey players regarding their employment status.
- Advised Canaccord Genuity Corporation and GMP Securities on a proposed Ontario securities class action alleging primary and secondary market misrepresentations by Wayland Group.
Woods LLP
A leader in Quebec, Woods LLP is held up as the ‘pre-eminent boutique litigation firm in the Montréal market’, with its ‘tremendous judgement’ and ‘good bench strength’ finding favour with clients. The team has broad expertise in contentious matters, with strong skill sets across litigation, arbitration and insolvency. High-profile name partner James Woods Ad E is highlighted as ‘one of the leading counsels in the province’. The group also draws upon the expertise of ‘outstanding litigator’ Patrick Ouellet, who specializes in high-end commercial and corporate litigation matters, and former Supreme Court judge Clément Gascon, who recently joined as senior counsel. Among its up-and-coming names, Louis Seveno is ‘one of the rising stars of the Bar’, and Laurence Ste-Marie is a well-rounded associate.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Clément Gascon; Patrick Ouellet; Louis Seveno; Laurence Ste-Marie; James Woods Ad E
Testimonials
‘This firm has wall-to-wall competence. They are my most trusted counsel in Quebec. I retain them frequently and refer files to them more often than that. They are one of the pre-eminent firms in the province and are very capable in most areas of law and compare favourably even with the largest national firms.’
‘They have tremendous judgment. Louis Seveno is one of the rising stars of the bar. His judgment is excellent and I would recommend him without hesitation. James Woods is, obviously, one of the leading counsel in the province. Marie-Louise Delisle is also a rising star with a sharp mind and excellent forensic skills.’
‘Woods is currently the preeminent boutique litigation firm in the Montreal market. Large, tier 1 firms routinely refer cases to Woods where we are conflicted out and we are very satisfied as to how Woods handle those cases. They have a strong bench strength of litigators and have recently recruited a former Supreme Court Justice.’
‘Patrick Ouellet is extremely well prepared, competitive and persuasive. Neil Peden is an up and coming litigator, performed very well in front of the Supreme Court this year in the landmark Blueberri case dealing with third party litigation funding. James Woods is the elder statesman in the Montreal market.’
Key clients
Quebecor / Videotron
Hachette Distribution Canada
Health Montreal Collective CJV
Honeywell
Omni Bridgeway (formerly known as Bentham IMF)
Keurig Dr. Pepper & Canada Dry Mott’s
Boiron
Loto-Québec
Devimco Immobilier
UBS Securities Canada
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Omni Bridgeway before the Supreme Court of Canada in a case clarifying the path for litigation funding in an insolvency context.
- Successfully advised Videotron on blocking a consumer law-related class-action application.
- Represented Health Montreal Collective CJV, as the builder of a hospital PPP, on several disputes concerning project delays, alleged defects and remedial work.