A full-service IP boutique, CPST Intellectual Property was established in 2020 by former partners of Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, including Anthony Prenol — who was department head at his previous firm — and trademark-focused partners Antonio Turco and Sarah O’Grady. The nine-lawyer group has built up a strong record of experience in the procurement, enforcement and commercialization of IP assets, while it also brings to bear significant IP litigation expertise. Clients include major multinational corporations in the technology, retail, sports and financial services spheres.
Intellectual property in Canada
CPST Intellectual Property
Other key lawyers:
Anthony Prenol; Antonio Turco; Sarah O’Grady; Junyi Chen
Dipchand LLP
Founded in 2010, Toronto-based IP boutique Dipchand LLP stepped up a gear during 2023 following its hire of two new partners: brand protection and enforcement specialist May Cheng joined from Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, while IP litigator Jennifer Ko joined from Crinson Law. Managing partner Elizabeth Dipchand spearheads the group and splits her practice between non-contentious IP — including licensing, contract, and transactional work — and IP litigation.
Practice head(s):
Elizabeth Dipchand
Other key lawyers:
May Cheng; Jennifer Ko
Testimonials
‘Dipchand LLP is a boutique firm that handles intellectual property matters. It takes each client seriously, whether your case is big or small. I would like to call out that the team is super diverse from the team members that were introduced to me.’
‘It is a very entrepreneurial team and very open to helping the ecosystem. Elizabeth Dipchand has a client-first approach.’
‘May Cheng is a highly skilled trademark lawyer and litigator.’
Key clients
Hi Wave Technologies (Talk-AI-tive)
Loaded Pierogi Franchising
Pacific Bottleworks Company
Solvbl Solutions
Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada
Travel Leaders Group
Meridian Credit Union
Rock Wear International
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Dbrand
Pacific Smoke International
CRB Consulting
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Travel Leaders Group, expunging the trademark registration of the defendant for TRAVEL LEADERS and obtaining nominal damages and punitive damages.
- Represented Pacific Smoke International and Vape Dépôt St-Jérôme in an action brought in the Federal Court for alleged infringement of STLTH’s industrial designs, trademarks and copyright by the defendants’ importation, distribution and sale of certain vaping devices and pods and their packaging.
- Represented Via Transportation in an opposition brought by VIA Rail against the mark VIA & Design, which included software for booking transportation for short distances, like a taxi or ride share service.
Heer Law
A two-partner strong boutique, Heer Law brings to bear experience across the full range of IP-related matters, with a marked focus on computer-related patent work for clients such as the University of Toronto. Firm founder Christopher Heer is a registered patent agent and trademark agent in Canada and the US and frequently handles cross-border matters. IP litigator Georgina Danzig co-heads the department together with Heer.
Practice head(s):
Christopher Heer; Georgina Danzig
Testimonials
‘From reception through to legal services and billing, the team assembled at Heer Law is first-rate.’
‘Georgina Danzig’s knowledge and expertise proved invaluable during the negotiation process.’
‘Georgina Danzig’s work is excellent. I relied on her for IP litigation especially in the drafting of all court documents. Her skills in the litigation process for IP cases, in particular, is outstanding. She has a strong grasp of IP concepts and is always well-prepared and knowledgeable.’
Key clients
The University of Toronto
Nudestix
2158003 Ontario, operating as AVision
MMA Technology Co
Gold Labs
Lorica Cybersecurity
Regina Exhibition Association
L&M Meats IP Holdings
Sanjel Energy Services
Gcat Group
Open Airway Dental Solutions
Beam Paint and Colour
Dr Pen Canada
Answerable
Sully Innovations
Work highlights
- Representing 2158003 Ontario, operating as AVision, in an action against Blackhawk Network (Canada) and others, concerning allegations of theft of confidential information, trade secrets, copyright infringement and trademark infringement, among others.
- Advising the University of Toronto on a significant portion of its computer-related patent applications.
Lenczner Slaght
Toronto litigation powerhouse Lenczner Slaght leverages its contentious firepower to focus on IP litigation. A popular choice to handle challenging cases, particularly — but not exclusively — patent disputes, the team routinely represents sophisticated global clients such as Gilead Sciences and L’Oréal Canada. Impressive litigator Sana Halwani anchors the practice and shines in patent disputes; she also handles copyright, trademark and trade secret matters. The group includes Jordana Sanft, who specializes in life sciences cases, and counsel Martin Brandsma, who joined in March 2023 from Bereskin & Parr LLP.
Practice head(s):
Sana Halwani
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Moeser; Cynthia Tape; Jordana Sanft; Martin Brandsma
Key clients
Adeia, formerly Rovi Guides and TiVo Solutions
Ariel Katz
Gilead Sciences
Janssen
Janssen Canada
Joel Huizenga
Johnson & Johnson
L’Oréal Canada
Maoz Betser-Zilevitch
Pfizer Canada
Puma
Subway
Stephen Bulger Gallery and Stephen Bulger
The consortium in the Qualcomm class action
Viatris (formerly Mylan Pharmaceuticals)
Work highlights
- Advising the intervener, Ariel Katz, in an appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada addressing the interpretation of a new provision of the Copyright Act, the role of the Copyright Board of Canada, and the question of when parsing the bundle of copyrights triggers a new entitlement to royalties.
- Representing Gilead Sciences and Gilead Sciences Canada in eight actions in the Federal Court of Canada under the PM(NOC) Regulations.
- Acting for Janssen in two applications for judicial review of the Minister of Health’s decision not to list Canadian Patent 3,11,837 on the patent register against the drugs STELARA and FINLIUS.
Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG’s pre-eminent practice is widely lauded for its ‘in-depth expertise and knowledge in the field of intellectual property’. The group’s enviably deep bench and full-service coverage of IP law ensures that it is a go-to choice to support major Canadian and multinational companies in patent and trademark prosecution and IP litigation, among other issues. In Toronto, national IP head Shelagh Carnegie is sought after for her wealth of experience in trademark portfolio management and enforcement; Natalie Rizkalla-Kamel is also a key contact for trademark work; and Laurent Massam heads the IP litigation team. In Ottawa, heavyweight IP litigator Christopher Van Barr is widely revered for his record in representing major global corporations such as Google and Bayer. Patent experts Jay Zakaïb and John Harris, as well as trademark specialists Martha Savoy and Paula Clancy, are also noted in Ottawa. The group additionally benefits from a strong pool of up-and-coming lawyers including partners Nelson Godfrey (Vancouver) and Charlotte McDonald (Toronto), and impressive associate Jasleen Chahal (Toronto).
Practice head(s):
Shelagh Carnegie; John Harris; Laurent Massam; Martha Savoy
Other key lawyers:
Michael Crichton; Christopher Van Barr; Nelson Godfrey; Paula Clancy; Ronald Dimock; Matthew Estabrooks; Selena Kim; Brian Lee; Eric Macramalla; Anita Nador; John Norman; Marc Richard; Lynne Watt; Jay Zakaïb; Erin Creber; Alex Gloor; James Green; Frédéric Lussier; Charlotte McDonald; Natalie Rizkalla-Kamel; Jasleen Chahal; Adam Heckman; Nathan Piché
Testimonials
‘The firm packs a lot of experience, yet manages to stay quick and nimble. Always very responsive. I am aware the firm has a strong onus on diversity and handles a good amount of pro bono work.’
‘Though Shelagh Carnegie is co-chair of the IP practice, she takes great care of her clients through lightning fast responses, clarity in advice, and a business mindset that takes the competition into account. I have also found her prices eminently reasonable, especially for such an experienced lawyer.’
‘The team with which we currently work is highly responsive and knowledgeable. It also stands out for its diversity and capability to handle complex trademark matters.’
‘Eric Macramalla stands out as a highly responsive and capable attorney. He responds incredibly fast to requests and his opinions are always clear and concise. It is a pleasure working with him and our clients are very happy with the results.’
‘Laurent Massam is business-focused and effective in achieving results. He is strategic and helps to ensure our strategy protects our business as well as growing it. In addition, Laurent is extremely knowledgeable and an effective communicator.’
‘The team is comprised of specialists in various areas of IP we require, namely IP preparation and filing, trademark management, IP protection and IP litigation. At the onset, we were able to collaboratively develop an IP strategy for the organization which helped focus the efforts in specific areas of priority.’
‘One of the most impressive characteristics of the team we work with is its in-depth expertise and knowledge in the field of intellectual property. Attorneys possess a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of IP law, enabling them to provide insightful and practical advice to clients.’
‘We work with Paula Clancy and one of her key strengths is her exceptional client-centric approach. She takes the time to thoroughly understand the needs and objectives of the clients, which allows her to tailor the services to best suit each client’s specific requirements.’
Key clients
Bayer, Bayer Intellectual Property
BC Hydro
Chanel
Crocs
Eli Lilly and Company
Farmobile
GE Renewable Energy Canada
Google Canada Corporation, Google and Alphabet
Major League Baseball Properties
Royal Bank of Canada
Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN)
Starbucks Coffee Company
Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Weetabix
Work highlights
- Represented the successful defendants (Google, Google Canada Corporation and Alphabet) in a patent infringement case before the Federal Court.
- Represented Bayer in nine pharmaceutical patent litigation cases against nine generic manufacturers concerning the drug XARELTO.
- Successfully represented the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN) in an appeal, before the Federal Court of Appeal, from a decision of the Copyright Board of Canada concerning royalties for the retransmission in Canada of distant television signals.
Smart & Biggar
The leading intellectual property boutique in Canada, Smart & Biggar focuses exclusively on IP law from its five offices across the country. The team’s generous national footprint was further boosted in September 2023 following its combination with fellow Canadian IP boutique, Ridout & Maybee, which added an additional 30 lawyers to the group. It also plugs into a significant international platform through its recent membership of the IPH Limited Group, which brings together a network of six firms across nine jurisdictions. In Toronto, Mark Evans is a go-to specialist for contentious and non-contentious trademark matters, while IP litigator Mark Biernacki contributes strong experience in an array of patents, trademarks, copyrights and industrial designs. The Toronto team also includes IP disputes expert Sheldon Hamilton; Yoon Kang, who specializes in life sciences patent litigation and prosecution; life sciences expert Nancy Pei; managing director Matthew Zischka; Graham Hood, who was appointed trademarks practice group leader in August 2023, and Urszula Wojtyra. In Ottawa, key figures include Steven Garland, a 30-year veteran in IP litigation; life sciences patents and chemicals/bio practice group leader Daphne Lainson, who was also appointed in August 2023; Elliott Simcoe, who draws on over two decades of experience in electrical and computer-related matters; and Kohji Suzuki, who utilizes a mastery of strategic IP enforcement. Montreal-based litigator François Guay is also highly regarded. Also in August 2023, Jean-Sébastien Dupont in Montreal was promoted to IP litigation practice group leader and Jonas Gifford was appointed patents engineering and ICT (EICT) head.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Zischka; Graham Hood; Jonas Gifford; Daphne Lainson; Jean-Sébastien Dupont
Other key lawyers:
Mark Evans; Sheldon Hamilton; Mark Biernacki; Yoon Kang; Nancy Pei; Urszula Wojtyra; Steven Garland; Kohji Suzuki; Elliott Simcoe; François Guay; Jeremy Want; Guillaume Lavoie Ste-Marie
Key clients
Dow Chemical Company
LuluLemon
Lindt
The NOCO Company
Rogers Media
Bell Media
Vidéotron Ltée; Groupe TVA
Goodmans LLP
The IP team at Goodmans LLP is revered by many ‘as one of the best at complex, high-stakes litigation’. In particular, it boasts a leading record in patent litigation, where it enjoys a longstanding relationship with Canada’s largest drug company, Apotex. Seasoned counsel Harry Radomski is held up by sources as the dean of Canada’s patent litigation bar, with his market-shaping record in the sphere closely matched by fellow star litigator Andrew Brodkin. The group’s deep pool of litigators additionally draws on increasingly prominent specialist Jordan Scopa, Ben Hackett and talented associate Jaclyn Tilak. The firm also routinely advises on the acquisition, commercialization, and enforcement of IP rights, where IP department head Amalia Berg is recommended for her experience in trademarks, copyright and confidential information.
Practice head(s):
Harry Radomski; Andrew Brodkin; Amalia Berg
Other key lawyers:
Jordan Scopa; Ben Hackett; Jaclyn Tilak; Jenene Roberts
Testimonials
‘Goodmans has a very large team led by very capable litigators. It is more active than any other firm in the field. Andrew Brodkin is brilliant and persuasive as an oralist. Jordan Scopa is meticulously well prepared, creative, and very smart.’
‘An extremely deep legal team, with extensive experience. It is one of the best at complex, high-stakes litigation. Andrew Brodkin is one of Canada’s top litigators. Jordon Scopa is Andrew’s right-hand person and writes incredibly well. Harry Radomski is one of the grandfathers of Canadian IP litigation.’
‘Goodmans’ IP litigation team is, simply, the best in Canada. Its strategic expertise in litigation, and in the pharma space in particular, is invaluable to in-house counsel. These lawyers are worth every penny and more!’
Key clients
Epiroc Canada
Rovi Guides (now Adeia Guides)
Sandoz Canada
Alvotech
JAMP Pharma Corporation
Save Max Real Estate
Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association
Novo Nordisk
Pharmascience
GEMAK Trus
Apotex / Apotex Pharmachem
Advanced Powders & Coatings
Duracell
ARC Resources
SoulCycle
Trudell Medical International
Wabtec Holding
Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation
MSA Technology
ToonBox Entertainment
Arterra Wines Canada
Give & Go Prepared Foods
HouseSigma
Panacea Biotec
Strataca Systems
Cognitive Systems
Quantum Valley Fund
Work highlights
- Advised Alvotech and JAMP Pharma on eight actions related to AbbVie’s six patents regarding its biologic drug HUMIRA; four of the actions were commenced by AbbVie pursuant to the Patented Medicines (Notice of Compliance) Regulations and four of the actions were commenced by JAMP.
- Advised Advanced Powders & Coatings (AP&C) on a patent infringement action concerning the validity of an AP&C patent to the manufacture of metal powder used in the additive manufacturing industry for 3D printing of aerospace and biomedical parts and devices.
- Advised ARC Resources, Rockies LNG, Rockies LNG GP Corp, and Birchcliff Energy on a patent action concerning the validity of a Steelhead patent for a floating liquid natural gas facility.
McCarthy Tétrault
McCarthy Tétrault operates across all key pillars of IP law, with strong offerings in prosecution, litigation, and multi-jurisdictional matters. Among the names to note in Toronto, senior counsel Barry Sookman stands as an authority in copyright and IP-related issues. IP strategy and prosecution head Lisa Melanson remains a key contact in this sphere. IP litigation head Steven Mason is highly regarded for his record in cutting-edge IP disputes, while David Tait focuses on patent litigation in the pharmaceutical and life sciences arenas. Other key names in Toronto include Fiona Legere and associate Kendra Levasseur. Vancouver’s Vincent Yip leads the firm’s Western Canadian IP practice. Since publication, Alfred Macchione has departed the firm.
Practice head(s):
Steven Mason; Lisa Melanson; David Tait
Other key lawyers:
Barry Sookman; Fiona Legere; Kendra Levasseur; Vincent Yip; Steven Tanner; Sanjaya Mendis; Daniel Glover; James Holtom
Testimonials
‘The firm took over an existing matter, and looked at it with a practical eye, balancing the legal position with the needs of the company. The team was creative, responsive, and ultimately, successful.’
‘Daniel Glover (trademark prosecution) and David Tait (trademark litigation) jumped right into the matter; coordinated a seamless transfer; took years of proceedings and simplified and summarized, and moved forward in an effective and creative manner.’
‘An incredibly skilled and incredibly practical team. Daniel Glover is very intelligent, quick and pragmatic. He is our go-to for high-risk files.’
‘The firm has both litigators and prosecution attorneys with lots of experience in PM(NOC) cases, impeachment cases and multi-jurisdictional matters requiring coordination with a number of other countries. The firm is frequently involved in cross-border matters that involve the US and Europe.’
‘David Tait is a veteran litigator and a leading lawyer in the life sciences patent litigation team. He has a lot of experience with the Canadian patent linkage system, section 8 damages and impeachment actions. David has a scientific background, is easy to get on with, and gives sound, pragmatic advice.’
‘Fiona Legere is another experienced patent litigator with a technical background in life sciences patent litigation. She handles many patent linkage cases under PM(NOC) regulations, as well as administrative challenges, including judicial reviews.’
‘James Holtom is a recently promoted partner with excellent technical and legal knowledge. He has a lot of experience with administrative law matters which can be helpful in fast paced PM(NOC) matters. With great knowledge of the science behind the technology, Jamie is a rising star partner at McCarthy.’
‘Kendra Levasseur is a rising star mid-level associate and has been performing beyond her years of qualification. She is great to work with, and has a good amount of experience in biologics cases. She is tenacious and is not afraid to challenge complex science. A talent to watch out for in the future.’
Key clients
AbbVie
Bristol-Myers Squibb / Celgene
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals / Bayer
Bell Canada
Music Canada
Farmers Edge
Apple
Enbridge
Merck & Co
Allergan
Norton Rose Fulbright
Equipped to handle the full range of IP strategy, acquisition, exploitation, regulation and enforcement, Norton Rose Fulbright is nonetheless best known for its prominent position in life sciences litigation. Jung-Kay Chiu heads the national IP department from Toronto and is recommended for IP rights management in the biotech and medical devices arenas. The Toronto office is also home to Kristin Wall, who advises on IP litigation and regulatory issues; Toronto group head Anna Wilkinson; and up-and-coming patent partner David Ng. Other local contacts include Calgary practice head Elizabeth Williams, who focuses on M&A transactions, licensing and IP commercialization, and portfolio monetization; and Christopher Wilson, who anchors the Vancouver team. Karen MacDonald recently left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Jung-Kay Chiu; Anna Wilkinson; Elizabeth Williams; Christopher Wilson
Other key lawyers:
Kristin Wall; David Ng; Allyson Whyte Nowak; Anthony de Fazekas; Stephen Lam
Testimonials
‘The team was comprised of members from different office locations. Each member of the team brought their individual expertise in the areas they were familiar with. The team provided a well rounded approach to the file by including various members from different locations.’
‘The individuals I worked with were very knowledgeable in the practice area. They were very responsible as things arose which required attention. They provided fulsome and thorough advice throughout the file.’
‘Very significant depth and experience in Canadian life sciences IP issues.’
‘Kristin Wall is highly experienced in acting as counsel to Canadian innovative pharma companies. Kristin has an excellent grasp of client expectations and also the policy issues, in addition to legal issues.’
‘Stephen Lam and David Ng are exceptional. Both technical and excellent at client communication. You get the feeling that they’re on your bench.’
Key clients
Innovative Medicines Canada
University Health Network
Fibrogen
Bausch Health Ireland
Pfizer
Graco Minnesota
Centric Brands
Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership
Work highlights
- Advising Innovative Medicines Canada and a consortium of pharmaceutical companies on amended regulations that, if implemented, will lower drug prices, costing the pharmaceutical industry between C$8.6bn to C$24.9bn over 10 years.
- Advising Century 21 Canada on a multimillion-dollar dispute regarding the purchase of an enterprise-level web platform.
- Advising Pfizer on three patent impeachment actions with potential impacts for the life sciences sector in Canada.
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP’s thriving IP practice stands out for its strength-and-depth across the full suite of prosecution, IP portfolio management, anti-counterfeiting and litigation. The group also benefits from its ability to team up with the wider firm’s formidable corporate offering to handle the IP aspects of major commercial transactions. Ottawa-based practice head Bradley White is widely acknowledged as a market leader in IP litigation, with 25 years of experience in blockbuster patent disputes. Ottawa managing partner Donna White is a go-to name on the trademark side, where she focuses on prosecution with an emphasis on proceedings before the Trademarks Opposition Board. Talented up-and-coming names include Ottawa partner Barry Fong and Toronto-based associate Sydney Young. John Cotter was appointed to the bench in June 2023.
Practice head(s):
Bradley White
Other key lawyers:
Donna White; Barry Fong; Sydney Young
Key clients
Teva Canada
Viatris/BGP Pharma/Mylan Pharmaceuticals
York University
Samsung Bioepis
Sun Pharma
VMware
WOW Tech
Purdue Pharmaceuticals
Munchkin Baby
Universities Canada
NBA Properties
Re: Sound Music Licensing Company
3M Innovative Properties
Caterpillar
Estee Lauder
Nicoya Lifesciences
Verisk Analytics
Torys
According to one pharmaceutical client, Torys impresses with its ‘knowledge regarding the intersection of regulatory and IP law’. Alongside its premier life sciences expertise, the Toronto-based group is additionally well versed in IP matters pertaining to the TMT, retail, food and beverage, agriculture, industrial, and energy and natural resources sectors, among others. IP chair and patent specialist Eileen McMahon also fronts the food and drug regulatory practice and advises on an array of IP protection and regulatory matters. Edward Fan coordinates the IP group and has an emphasis on IP acquisition, enforcement and exploitation. The group also fields two highly regarded IP litigators in Andrew Shaughnessy and Andrew Bernstein. Other recommended names include life sciences specialist Teresa Reguly and newly promoted patent litigator Nicole Mantini.
Other key lawyers:
Teresa Reguly; Andrew Bernstein; Nicole Mantini; Yolande Dufresne; Yael Bienenstock; Michelles Nelles
Testimonials
‘Torys IP offers a unique and compelling offering of deep legal expertise and pragmatic business insight. The team is very responsive and also proactive, routinely reaching out to keep us informed of developments in industry and the law as it relates to the pharmaceutical field.’
‘Eileen McMahon possesses unparalleled expertise and experience in the life sciences industry. Andrew Shaughnessy provides innovative strategic legal thinking and a willingness to use his vast network to support our legal needs.’
‘Teresa Reguly is responsive and pragmatic, with extremely sharp legal skills and strategic and innovative in her legal thinking.’
‘Andrew Bernstein is a great resource when it comes to IP and constitutional matters. He is always responsive and engaging. He works well with in-house counsel, making sure we are always on the team and part of the process. This creates trust and high-level collaboration that you do not find with other firms.’
‘Eileen McMahon and her team know the biopharmaceutical industry extremely well.’
‘Eileen McMahon always finds a way to achieve a goal for her client. Very creative, caring and successful.’
‘The team is wonderful to work with. It is highly knowledgeable about IP, both prosecution and litigation. It also has great experience and knowledge regarding the intersection of regulatory and IP law.’
Key clients
LiquidPower Specialty Products
CFL Enterprises
Sanofi-Aventis Canada
Catalyst Pharmaceuticals and KYE Pharmaceuticals
NOVA Chemicals Corporation
Amgen
Olympus Corporation
Champion Petfoods
Work highlights
- Advising LiquidPower Specialty Products (LSPI)in defending an action to impeach a patent owned by LSPI brought by Flowchem.
- Representing NOVA Chemicals Corporation in appealing two separate decisions involving disputes with Dow Chemical Canada.
Bennett Jones LLP
Bennett Jones LLP’s oil and gas offering is reflected in its patent practice, where it maintains a dominant position in oilfield-related issues. The group additionally boosted its profile in the agriculture and TMT areas with the recent hires of food and agriculture-focused IP partner Lorelei Graham and Fred Barbieri, who specializes in IP prosecution — the duo arrive from Norton Rose Fulbright in Toronto and Ottawa respectively. Dominique Hussey spearheads the IP litigation practice and is highly regarded for life sciences disputes and energy-related patent and trademark litigation. Stephen Burns focuses on the IP aspects of energy and infrastructure projects and transactions.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Burns; Dominique Hussey
Other key lawyers:
Robert McDonald KC; Emily Kettel; Lorelei Graham; Fred Barbieri
Key clients
ATCO Group of Companies, (including ATCO, Canadian Utilities) – Hydrogen / Smart Grid
Auro Pharma/Eugia/CuraTeq group of companies
Beam Suntory family of Spirit Brands
Block (formerly Square)
Blue Ant Media
Boart Longyear entities
Equitable Bank
Ferrero Group (Ferrero, Soremartec and Magic Productions)
Framar International
Government of Alberta – Minister of Health
Hydropool (a Jacuzzi Company)
idX Corporation
Luxury Brands (Bottega Veneta, Prada, Guccio Gucci, Alexander McQueen)
Pembina Pipeline Corporation
Venngage
Work highlights
- Advising the ATCO Group of Companies on technology, licensing and intellectual property mandates.
- Advising Auro Pharma, Eugia and CuraTeq on a number of litigation and pre-litigation patent matters involving several drug products.
- Acting as prosecution and litigation counsel in Canada for members of the Beam Suntory family of Sprit Brands.
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
A force in copyright-related matters, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP also handles a significant volume of trademark and patent prosecution, portfolio management and litigation. Department head Casey Chisick is widely recognized as a leading light for his niche expertise in the collective administration of copyright, where he routinely represents copyright collective societies and trade associations, among others. Additional senior names include Toronto-based IP litigator Mark Davis, and Vancouver-based IP litigation specialist Karen MacDonald, who joined in May 2023 from Norton Rose Fulbright. Up-and-coming IP litigators Eric Mayzel and Jessica Zagar are also noted in Toronto. Alison Hayman recently left the group.
Practice head(s):
Casey Chisick
Other key lawyers:
Karen MacDonald; Mark Davis; Stephanie Roberts; Steven Kennedy; Eric Mayzel; Chandimal Nicholas; Jessica Zagar
Key clients
Air Miles International Trading and LoyaltyOne
BBC Canada
Canadian Musical Reproduction Rights Agency
Coca-Cola / The Coca-Cola Company
Davide Campari-Milano
Diamond Estates Wine & Spirits
Epic Games
Fenix Outdoor (Fjällräven)
International Confederation of Music Publishers
Little Caesar Enterprises
Mattel / Mega Bloks / American Girl
Music Publishers Canada
Nike
Pearson Education, Inc. and Pearson Canada
Prince Estate / Paisley Park
Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN)
Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Canada
Torstar
University of Toronto
DLA Piper (Canada) LLP
DLA Piper (Canada) LLP’s practice is distinguished by its ability to plug into the wider firm’s global IP offering, which provides significant cross-border firepower in multi-jurisdictional cases. The group advises on the full gamut of transactional, portfolio management and licensing-related issues but is particularly weighted towards IP litigation. In Toronto, department head Sangeetha Punniyamoorthy is recommended for copyright, patent and trademark disputes, while seasoned counsel Bruce Stratton has a focus on patent litigation. The group additionally draws upon a talented band of younger litigators, including Bentley Gaikis, who also has an emphasis on patents, and associate Michal Kasprowicz — both are in Toronto.
Practice head(s):
Sangeetha Punniyamoorthy
Other key lawyers:
Chris Bennett; Alan Macek; Geoff Mowatt; Bentley Gaikis; Michal Kasprowicz
Testimonials
‘DLA Piper’s collective expertise, coupled with Sangeetha Punniyamoorthy’s leadership, has enabled it to deliver outstanding results to clients time and again. Its commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements is evident in its innovative strategies and thought leadership initiatives.’
‘Based on my extensive experience of working with Sangeetha Punniyamoorthy and DLA Piper, I am confident in recommending the team without reservation. Its exceptional track record, commitment to excellence, and impressive skills make it a valuable asset to any project or organization.’
‘I wholeheartedly recommend Sangeetha Punniyamoorthy for her exceptional expertise, dedication and professional acumen. Sangeetha has demonstrated an impressive level of proficiency, consistently delivering high-quality work that showcases her extensive knowledge and experience.’
Key clients
BMW
Videotron
Tetra Tech Canada
Edibles Arrangements, Edible IP, Edible International
DeepRoot Green Infrastructure
Canadian Energy Services
Diligent Corporation
G&W Trademarks, G&W Distilling
Aurora Cannabis Enterprises
Mountain Equipment Company
Sandvik Mining and Construction Oy
Work highlights
- Successfully defended Videotron on four patents asserted by Rovi on technology relating to interactive program guides.
- Retained by Tetra Tech to argue an appeal from an adverse finding in a patent infringement action.
- Acted for the Pfizer entities, as co-counsel, in defending a patent infringement action brought by Janssen related to Janssen’s Remicade and Pfizer’s Inflectra, both of which are infliximab products for use in treating rheumatoid arthritis and various irritable bowel diseases.
Fasken
Fasken’s national IP practice stands out among peers for its uniquely strong platform in Quebec, which is particularly valuable in light of the province’s recent Charter of the French Language law and its impact on branding and marketing. Montreal-based patent specialist David Turgeon spearheads a full-spectrum practice that encompasses all aspects of obtaining, commercializing and enforcing IP assets. The Montreal group also includes seasoned IP litigator Julie Desrosiers, who is highly regarded for patent litigation; next-generation partner Michael Shortt, who specializes in transactional and contentious matters concerning the videogame and life sciences industries; and IP and media-focused associate Patricia Hénault.
Practice head(s):
David Turgeon
Other key lawyers:
Julie Desrosiers; Michael Shortt; Patricia Hénault; Armand Benitah; Marek Nitoslawski; Jay Kerr-Wilson; Joanie Lapalme; Nathan Haldane
Key clients
Automation Tooling Systems
Pattison Outdoor Advertising Limited Partnership et al.
Nova Ventures Corporation
Atlas Copco Canada
Equisoft
Nuheara
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Entertainment Software Association et al.
Work highlights
- Represented Entertainment Software Association, Entertainment Software Association of Canada, Bell Canada, Google, Quebecor Media, Rogers Communications, and Shaw Communications, in a case where the Supreme Court of Canada interpreted the ‘making available’ provision of Canada’s Copyright Act.
- Advised Pattison Outdoor Advertising on a multi-faceted patent infringement dispute against T-Rex Property AB.
- Led a constitutional challenge to the federal government’s amendments to the Patented Medicines Regulations and to the regulation of patented drug prices by the Patented Medicines Prices Review Board as a whole.
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie’s ability to ‘draw on colleagues from around the world to bring additional perspectives’ strikes the right note with its IP clients, many of which are major multinational companies. The practice is geared to handle a range of portfolio management, anti-counterfeiting, transactional work and litigation, with a notable focus on trademark-related matters. Department head Stephanie Vaccari enjoys a strong market profile for trade mark law, where she represents Fortune 500 companies on global portfolio management and opposition and cancellation proceedings. Christopher Aide is also noted for global trademark and design portfolio management.
Practice head(s):
Stephanie Vaccari
Other key lawyers:
Jim Holloway; Christopher Aide
Testimonials
‘We have always had top-notch service and on-point recommendations. The team’s top-of-mind knowledge is key to keeping us up to date on all aspects of intellectual property matters.’
‘Stephanie Vaccari and her team are second-to-none. Always on hand and at task for any inquiry we may have.’
‘What makes Baker McKenzie’s practice unique is its depth of knowledge, experience and insight, in addition to providing practical and strategic advice. It provides our organization with highly specialized advice from seasoned experts. Members of the firm are highly responsive, supportive and attentive.’
Key clients
Unilever
Zhaojin Mining
Kanal D
Fidelity
Zoom Video Communications
Work highlights
- Advising Unilever on the management of its trademark portfolio in Canada, and also on related advisory work and some IP disputes.
- Advising Zhaojin Mining on a lawsuit brought against it and a subsidiary arising from their multimillion-dollar investment in Canadian gold company, Sabina Silver & Gold.
- Representing Zoom Video Communications in a Federal Court of Canada case, where the plaintiff is alleging that Zoom is infringing its trademarks, and seeks to restrain the further use of the ZOOM mark in Canada.
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP’s team continues to gain ground in the IP space. In particular, it is increasingly active on the contentious front under IP litigation practice head Andrew Skodyn, who frequently leads patent cases for clients such as Janssen and Actelion Pharmaceuticals. Chris Hunter spearheads the overarching IP practice and advises on IP strategy, acquisition, enforcement and exploitation, including patents, trademarks and copyrights; he also acts on the IP aspects of large transactions. Former team co-lead Melanie Baird left the firm in April 2024.
Practice head(s):
Chris Hunter; Andrew Skodyn
Other key lawyers:
Sean Jackson
Key clients
Danaher Corporation
iGaming Ontario
Janssen
Knix Wear
McCain Foods
Medexus Pharmaceuticals
Mill Street Brewery
Pretium Resources
Royal Bank of Canada
Sycamore Partners Management
Work highlights
- Advised Danaher Corporation on its acquisition of Tilia Labs, a Canadian-based imposition AI software company.
- Acted for Mill Street Brewery (owned by Labatt) in a passing off, trademark infringement, copyright infringement and competition claim brought by Canadian band, The Tragically Hip.
- Advised Knix Wear on the $313m sale of an 80% interest in Knix to Essity.
Stikeman Elliott LLP
Consistently engaged to advise on IP-focused transactions Stikeman Elliott LLP’s team is more than just an adjunct to the corporate practice, and the growing group also handles licensing, patent and trademark prosecution and litigation. Ottawa managing partner Justine Whitehead specializes in the acquisition and protection of IP rights and co-heads the department alongside Montreal-based Jonathan Auerbach, who supports on an array of contentious and non-contentious patent, trademark and copyright matters. In June 2023, the team was boosted through the hire of Toronto-based Jeilah Chan from Bennett Jones LLP, who is well versed across all key spheres of IP law.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Auerbach; Justine Whitehead
Other key lawyers:
Jeilah Chan; Kevin Graham; Ryan Sheahan; Andrea Kroetch; Alexa Teofilovic
Key clients
Air Canada
Lyft
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)
Dell Corporation
The Wonderful Company
Sony
Under Armour
Cirque du Soleil
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
Pandora
Entertainment One
Aird & Berlis LLP
Drawing on an extensive team of lawyers, patent agents and other professionals, Aird & Berlis LLP is equipped to advise on a broad scope of IP services, including prosecution, licensing, technology transfer, corporate transactions and litigation. The group has an increasingly prominent position in copyright matters, where it has recently undertaken work for Voltage Pictures and PicRights International, among others. Practice head Timothy Lowman is commended by sources as a ‘fantastic IP litigator’.
Practice head(s):
Timothy Lowman
Other key lawyers:
Amy Grenon; Ken Clark
Testimonials
‘Aird & Berlis is my go to IP firm in Canada. Top-notch patent prosecution and IP litigation. Very responsive.’
‘Timothy Lowman is a fantastic IP litigator.’
‘A full-service IP firm in Toronto. IP prosecution, licensing, strategy, and enforcement.’
Key clients
Millennium Media
Voltage Pictures
Distributel Communications
McMaster University and Altus Assessments
Ancestry.com
Illinois Tool Works
Linamar Corporation
PicRights International
MediPharm Labs Corp
San Cristobal Mining
Work highlights
- Advising Millennium Media on the management of its copyright enforcement program, including bringing actions against individuals and business who illegally distribute its films through the BitTorrent software protocol online.
- Representing Voltage Pictures in the appeal of a Federal Court decision concerning certification of a reverse class action.
- Representing Distributel in the defence of novel copyright infringement actions of Bell Media and Rogers Communications involving static and dynamic website blocking injunctive relief against innocent third-party internet service providers (ISPs).
BCF Business Law
Quebec firm BCF Business Law fields a well-rounded IP practice from its Montreal and Quebec City offices. With broad, multi-disciplinary expertise in patents, trademarks, copyrights and industrial designs, the group operates across all key facets of IP law, including prosecution, portfolio management, commercial transactions and litigation. The department is led jointly by Montreal-based patent head Julien Lacheré and Quebec City-based trademark specialist Johanne Auger.
Practice head(s):
Julien Lacheré; Johanne Auger
Key clients
Yandex
OVHcloud
Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise
Akhavan Foods
Blue Solutions Canada
Beneva
Desjardins
Bombardier Recreational Products
Mobeewave
Bombardier
Work highlights
- Advising Bombardier on patent portfolio growth for Canadian R&D, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications.
- Advising Yandex on its patent portfolio in the US, Europe and internationally.
- Providing full-service patent support for OvHcloud, including invention disclosure reviews, inventor interviews, patent application drafting and patent prosecution.