Firm Profile > Gowling WLG > Toronto, Canada
Gowling WLG Offices
1600 – 1 FIRST CANADIAN PLACE
100 KING STREET WEST
TORONTO, ONTARIO, M5X 1G5
Canada
Gowling WLG > The Legal 500 Rankings
Indigenous law Tier 1
Standing out 'at the forefront of innovative service', Gowling WLG fields a large team of indigenous law specialists, who 'consistently deliver sound legal advice' primarily to First Nations clients. The practice group advises on a wide range of matters, including treaty rights, land claims, self-governance, economic development and environmental law issues. Vancouver-based litigator Maxime Faille has extensive experience representing Indigenous governments and businesses across Canada; and Cam Cameron in Ottawa is recognized for his 'pragmatic advice' on economic development projects. Jaimie Lickers took an in-house role at CIBC in October 2020.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The partner we work with is able to understand our work in Indigenous health and support the work we do. With his guidance, we were able to develop a purchase of service contract for our Indigenous consultants that incorporated OCAP principles, recognizing traditional language as an important part of the Indigenous culture.‘
‘From my experience, I have found the Gowling WLG team has diverse expertise that has consistently delivered sound legal advice on complex and multi-jurisdictional projects that we confront in our organization. Their expertise related to modernization of gaming throughout Ontario related to Indigenous rights puts Gowling WLG at the forefront of innovative service from what I have seen, a go-to option for this type of work when compared to other firms in our market. My work with the Gowling team, in particular Cam Cameron, has centered around Duty to Consult Assessments and several larger projects related to negotiations. The advice provided is pragmatic with an emphasis on maximizing the right opportunities beneficial to all parties involved.‘
‘Cam Cameron is a partner at Gowling WLG with expertise in Business and Indigenous Law. We were fortunate enough to have Mr. Cameron on a periodic secondment for a period of nearly 6 years — this strengthened our business rapport and established a lasting collaboration between our two entities.‘
‘We have appreciated the deep knowledge the team holds of regulatory and Aboriginal law, and have always had the utmost confidence in Gowlings. Scott Smith and his team have brought a creative, progressive and highly strategic approach to our litigation as well as other tables, developing a robust and multifaceted legal strategy for us as a client.‘
‘Scott Smith brings an exceptional strategic mind to his work, advising his clients with a bigger picture in mind and always prepared for several steps ahead. Scott is able to advise on multiple facets of a situation and identify new opportunities to further our mandate, creating a robust legal strategy for us as his client. Scott shines in the courtroom as a litigator; he is persuasive, confident, and creative.‘
‘Paul Seaman and Keith Brown are both effective communicators who are skilled at relaying otherwise complex legal scenarios to their clients. Keith demonstrates patience and confidence during stressful and hectic times, always exuding respect and making time to answer questions and follow up to ensure we understood. Paul Seaman prepared his client for a cross examination in an effective and clear way, creating confidence and reassurance in an otherwise daunting experience.‘
Key clients
Roger Augustine, and Claudette Commanda and Mariette Buckshot
Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nation
Carrier Sekani Family Services
Government of Newfoundland & Labrador
Gwich’in Tribal Council
CGL First Nations Limited Partnership
Former clients of David Blott in Indian Residential School claims process
Mi’kmaq First Nations Assembly of Newfoundland
Marten Falls First Nation
Government of Nunavut
CIBC
Métis Settlements General Council
Intellectual property Tier 1
The team at Gowling WLG 'truly does put the customer first'. Marked by 'great bench strength across all levels', the team has widely recognized strengths in IP protection and enforcement, complex litigation and commercialization. Among the department leaders are Vancouver-based Brian Kingwell, who has experience of patent matters the life sciences sector, and Robert MacDonald in Ottawa, who manages the Canadian portfolios of several large multinationals. Trademarks specialist Shelagh Carnegie co-heads the global IP group from the Toronto office, and Scott Foster leads the IP litigation group in the Vancouver office. Other contacts for IP disputes include Christopher Van Barr, 'IP guru' Anthony Creber and Ottawa-based IP litigation and strategy group chair Michael Crichton. Ronald Dimock joined from DLA Piper (Canada) LLP in January 2020. Nelson Godfrey was promoted to partner in January 2020.
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Testimonials
‘This team has great bench strength at all levels and uses a team approach to their benefit so that the appropriate level of work is completed by the person most-suited.’
‘Tony Creber is an IP guru and very capable of picking up complex client technology very quickly. Tony is a human dictionary of case law, strategic, very responsive and also very willing to consider client input and instruction.’
‘The team at Gowlings do truly put the customer first. Their focus is not billable hours, or a set in stone set of metrics to be achieved: it is to serve the best interests of the customers.’
‘Smart, experienced, common sense approaches. Excellent responsiveness.’
‘Real care about our shared clients and our professional relationship.’
Key clients
Adidas / CCM Hockey
Bayer Inc.
Google LLC
LG Electronics, Inc.
Philip Morris Brands Sarl
PayPal Inc.
United Airlines, Inc.
Molson Coors Canada Inc.
Bombardier
Eli Lily
Cenovus Energy
Starbucks Corporation and related entities
Weetabix Ltd.
Shopify
Cummins Enterprises Inc. and David J. Cummings
Toys R Us
Aviation Tier 2
Gowling WLG's aviation team handles the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters, from Canadian regulatory compliance and disputes to financing, leasing and acquisition transactions. Guy David is a name to note for aircraft finance work and is a key adviser to Export Development Canada (EDC). In addition to its EDC work, the group also acts for air carriers and manufacturers, among other aviation companies. On the contentious side, the team has experience of passenger rights, personal injury and wrongful death, and cargo claims. Marie-France Béland left for an in-house position in August 2020.
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Key clients
Export Development Canada
Bombardier Inc
Westjet Airlines
United Airlines
NAV CANADA
Air Canada
CIBC World Market
Delta Airlines
CAE Inc.
ECN Aviation
Gulfstream Aviation
Menzies Aviation
Cannabis Tier 2
Rated by clients for its 'tailored approach and deep understanding of the industry', Gowling WLG's cannabis practice has noted expertise in corporate finance, M&A and structured products, and is a top choice for strategic investors and public companies. Toronto-based Peter Simeon, who concentrates his practice on corporate finance and M&A, jointly leads the team with regulatory lawyer Lewis Retik in Ottawa. The department's product regulatory team is a key strength, advising on issues including formulation, labelling and distribution. In addition, the firm is able to provide clients with a range of complementary legal services, including commercial litigation, real estate, intellectual property and employment law.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Strong intellectual property law expertise‘
‘Attention to detail, responsiveness, tailored approach and deep understanding of the industry‘
‘Excellent Cannabis Act knowledge – Experience in the cannabis industry with many clients from the cannabis sector – Ability to navigate and devise solutions to work within the cannabis regulations‘
Key clients
Aleafia Health Inc.
Ascendant Laboratories Inc. (subsidiary of Terrascend Corp.)
Canopy Growth Corporation
Eden Empire Inc.
InnoCan Pharma Corporation
Khiron Life Sciences Corp.
Molson Coors Canada
Namaste Technologies Inc.
Phivida Holdings
R&D Pharma Corp.
SOL Global Investments Corp.
TREC Brands Inc.
Truss Beverages (JV of Molson Coors and HEXO Corp.)
Wikileaf Technologies Inc.
Environment Tier 2
Environmental litigation is a core strength for the team at Gowling WLG, which has expertise in all three major branches of contentious work: criminal, civil and administrative. Over the past year, the team has shown its worth in consequential regulatory appeals, environmental assessments and major civil litigation. Contacts in the Toronto office include regulatory approval specialist Rodney Northey, who chairs the practice group, and Harry Dahme, who specializes in waste management issues and contaminated sites. Litigator Wally Braul is a name to note in Vancouver.
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Testimonials
‘Strong expertise and knowledge in environmental matters relating to the renewable energy industry.‘
‘Gowling WLG Canada LLP has a strong team that provides excellent legal support in regards to negotiations and environmental assessments.‘
Key clients
Government of Nunavut
Regional Municipality of Halton
Northland Power Inc.
Waste Connections
Yukon Government
Kirby Offshore Marine LLC
University of British Columbia
City of Mississauga
Government of Alberta
Wheatland
Corporation of the City of Burlington
Romandale Farms Limited
Hamilton Beach Brands Canada, Inc.
Marten Falls First Nation
Media and entertainment Tier 2
Gowling WLG's entertainment team 'consistently stands out for offering its clients personalized, candid legal advice that weights legal risk and identifies reputational considerations'. Highlighted in part for its marriage of 'legal acumen with low ego, pragmatism and a sense of humour', the practice group acts for a wide variety of clients across the industry, including musicians and record labels; film and television producers; and actors, authors and athletes. In addition, the team works in conjunction with the firm's IP practice in copyright, trademarks, branding and design matters, where it represents music, video game and book publishers. The practice is headed by Toronto-based Susan Abramovitch, who is qualified in Ontario, New York and Quebec.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Gowlings consistently stands out for offering its clients personalized, candid legal advice that weights legal risk and identifies reputational considerations. Their size and international relationships allow them to serve their clients locally and through global offices or via affiliated firms. Much of this is table stakes for large national firms with a breadth of practice. What distinguishes Gowlings is the marriage of legal acumen with low ego, pragmatism and a sense of humour.’
‘Susan Abramovitch is our primary contact for media and entertainment legal support, and she epitomizes the same qualities that set the firm apart: deep subject matter expertise and experience, approach-ability and a strong customer focus with pragmatism and a sense of humour. Susan doesn’t pre-judge a situation or matter. Rather, she elucidates in straight forward terms the considerations at play and what options are available to the client based on its risk tolerance.’
‘We used Gowling WLG’s Media and Entertainment practice for one reason – Susan Abramovitch. Working with Susan was extraordinarily valuable. Without her help we would not have secured an agreement to publish our book. In addition to her depth of experience in this area, Susan responded incredibly quickly to any request we had. Finally, in the context of a quite contentious dispute, she was also empathetic and maintained a sense of humour – all very much appreciated.’
‘The media and entertainment practice provided our organization with the advice and counsel of an experienced lawyer who was able to help us maneuver and understand the complexities of an agreement but also identify areas where terms were improved and risks were mitigated.’
‘When we first sought advice, Shelagh Carnegie and Kevin Sartorio provided their thoughts on the agreement but then suggested that we engage Susan Abramovitch. Having worked with Susan on a previous deal, we were unfortunately not in a position to pay for services we expected to be prolonged. At that point, Kevin suggested that we might be a good candidate for pro-bono work and indeed, were approved within a matter of a week. All three lawyers, Shelagh, Kevin and Susan have been great to work with, very supportive and available. Specifically, Susan was available throughout the week, on weekends and outside of ”normal” work weeks. She was tireless in her support and committed to helping us get the best agreement possible. Through the course of the negotiations with an extremely challenging lawyer, Susan continued to seek solutions and offer advice – she truly felt like a part of our team.’
Key clients
Universal Music Canada
Peermusic
Dean Brody
Jane Goodall Institute Global
Quinlan Road/Loreena McKennitt
SOCAN
Mary Berg
Great Big Sea
Royal Bank of Canada
National Arts Centre Corporation
Maison Battat Toys
Indspire
Harlequin Enterprises
Azrieli Foundation
Impakt Labs
Eleanor McCain
Ryerson University
Secret City Records/Publishing
Six Shooter Records
Susan Aglukark
Brad Roberts/Crash Test Dummies
Power Tier 2
'Among the best in Toronto', the team at Gowling WLG handles a full range of power sector work, but is particularly well known for its specialist expertise in four key areas: regulation, nuclear, renewables and Indigenous law. On the regulatory front, the team advises public sector clients and NGOs on energy policy and design, areas where Ian Mondrow is a name to note. Practice co-head Ahab Abdel-Aziz is sought after for his work on national and international nuclear mandates, while joint practice head Thomas Timmins comes recommended for his work in the area of renewables. Adam Chamberlain is the contact for project matters involving Indigenous lands or entities; he has strengths both in Indigenous law and environmental law. Magdalena Hanebach is a star associate, who specializes in the nuclear industry.
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Testimonials
‘The Gowlings Energy Team is among the best in Toronto.’
‘Working with them provides me with the legal and regulatory expertise I need, but also allows me to challenge them on certain aspects that I feel could be done differently. These discussions are always handled respectfully and competently.‘
‘On a personal level all of these individuals are a pleasure to work with. Technically and legally talented but approachable, friendly and reasonable. I very much enjoy my interactions with Gowlings.‘
‘Gowling stands out for its senior energy regulatory expertise. Ian Mondrow is my go-to counsel for work on strategic regulatory matters, he has a great depth of experience and cross-jurisdictional knowledge that I have not found in in this practice area elsewhere.‘
‘Ian Mondrow is very practical and customer-focused and is very personable and easy to deal with.‘
‘The practice is respected by the regulator, so was able to influence outcomes. Also, they were very well versed in the issues we were involved in.‘
‘The individuals were engaged and exerted their influence to get a good outcome. They arranged phone calls with other parties to negotiate a favorable outcome.‘
Key clients
Rosatom group of companies (Rosatom Overseas, TVEL, Rosatom Services, AtomstroyExport, Novobirisk Chemicals Concentrates Plant)
Henvey Inlet First Nation
London Hydro/Electron
Cummins
Town of Ajax
Town of Grimsby
Brookfield Renewable Power
Association des redistributeurs d’électricité du Québec (AREQ)
Public procurement Tier 2
Perhaps best known for its work in bid protests and related litigation, the public procurement team at Gowling WLG is hailed by clients for its legal expertise as well as its 'practical view of the business side of the equation'. The practice group also advises on RFPs and tender designs. Also of note is the firm's Indigenous law group, through which the procurement team advises indigenous governments and organizations on a variety of procurement matters. Ottawa-based litigator Phuong Ngo leads the team, which counts healthcare, manufacturing and transportation among its sector strengths.
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Testimonials
‘Expertise on the subject matter coupled with a really practical view of the business side of the equation.‘
Business immigration Tier 3
Based in Waterloo, the team at Gowling WLG is rated by clients for its 'fast response times', 'thorough knowledge of the subject matter', 'on-point guidance' and 'great follow up'. Led by the highly recommended Bill MacGregor, the team regularly assists employers with global mobility matters, recruitment and compliance counselling, having developed expertise in matters involving the US. The team is active in a wide range of industry sectors, most notably construction and infrastructure, logistics, technology and manufacturing.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Gowling provides concise, clear, and on-point guidance. The guidance is reasonable, not crossing into worst-case scenarios and takes into account the company’s risk tolerance.’
‘Bill MacGregor is available, responsive, and understands our company’s needs.’
‘We appreciate the fast-response time, thorough knowledge of the subject matter and being able to stay in touch with the latest immigration law developments’
‘We have used another law firm for immigration law matters in the past but they were not responsive enough to our demands and we switched over to Gowlings. We have been with Gowlings for close to 8 years now and are satisfied with the service’
‘Bill MacGregor is able to assist at a moment’s notice, well-versed in his field, has been working with us for a very long time, gets straight to the point, pleasure to work with, has assisted us with some complex issues, comprehensive advice, knows their client well’
‘The team is very knowledgeable and has offered us many different solutions to immigrations challenges we have experienced. They are quick to respond and great with follow up and resolution.’
‘I have worked primarily with Bill MacGregor and we have forged a great relationship. He is direct and to the point and always provides great advice. We have thrown many hail Mary’s and been successful in many and I have appreciated his flexibility and creativity when it comes to solutions.’
Corporate and M&A Tier 3
‘Efficient, fast and reliable’, Gowling WLG provides ‘excellent legal advice’, according to sources. The diverse national group benefits from platforms throughout the country, with its well-established position in the Waterloo Region — a key part of the Toronto-Waterloo Region Corridor technology cluster — translating into a thriving start-up practice. The wider firm’s signature IP strength also fuels deals in other IP-rich areas, including life sciences and energy. Toronto-based Ian Palm is noted for his experience in the energy, technology and infrastructure sectors.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘The Gowling team has the necessary depth and breadth of expertise in Corporate & M&A matters and brings an incredibly practical approach to transactions.’
‘Nurhan Aycan brings a very practical approach to transactions; he takes a hands-on approach to each deal and leads his capable team from out in front, while also allowing key associates to take meaningful roles and gain experience under his guidance. This approach has delivered efficient legal services for us on several occasions. Nurhan is accessible and approachable, while bringing a wealth of knowledge and a common-sense approach.’
‘Knowledgeable, personable and grounded business oriented advice.’
‘Nurhan Aycan is an excellent partner that focuses on business friendly solutions.’
‘Gowlings have been providing us excellent legal advise. They excel in two areas: Comprehensive and timeliness.’
‘Nurhan Ayan, partner take time to understand client issues. He works hard to develop good insights into our industry and our strengths and weaknesses in the industry.’
‘World class firm with world class lawyers.’
‘Chris Stanek and Nurhan Aycan are superstars. They get the job done, efficient, fast and reliable. Chris gets results. I would want him beside me always to protect me and make me win. Nurhan is amazing at putting a deal together. His knowledge, skill and available resources are the best.’
Key clients
Cummins
Newlook Capital Inc.
HeavenlyRx
Khiron Life Sciences Corp.
SOL Global Investments Corp.
Starling Brands Inc.
Phivida Holdings Inc.
R&D Pharma Corp
Namaste Technologies Inc.
I.M.C. Holdings
Silversmith Capital Partners
Canadian Hospital Specialties
EMERGE Commerce Inc.
CooperVision Inc.
TerraFarma Inc.
BGF
TickTrade Systems Inc.
iCabbi
Dispute resolution Tier 3
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):
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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
Infrastructure projects Tier 3
Gowling WLG is routinely instructed by project sponsors, equity providers, and EPC contractors in major construction and infrastructure projects. In particular, the team is rated for its 'exceptional depth of transactional expertise' in the PPP space. The team has been involved in large-scale projects across North and South America, the Middle East and Africa, bringing particular expertise in energy and transportation projects. Ted Betts, Faithe Holder and Montréal-based Luc Lissoir jointly lead the practice group. Also recommended is Adam Lewinberg, whom clients value for his 'previous in-house experience and his understanding of the dynamic of the sector'. Named lawyers are based in Toronto unless stated otherwise.
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Testimonials
‘The team did a great job, we were all positively impressed by their commitment to the result and their professional approach.‘
‘Adam Lewinberg is very competent and available. He is very committed to help his client to get the results they want. Given his previous in-house experience, his understanding of the dynamic of the sector, it is a definitely a plus.’
‘Very available, efficient and responsive throughout their entire firm, its a culture they’ve built into the team. Very resourceful with examples to help negotiate out of difficult matters.‘
‘Excellent communicators and very influential in getting their point across getting favourable results.‘
‘Gowling has exceptional depth of transactional expertise particularly in the Public, Private, Partnership market.’
Key clients
Acciona Infrastructure & Concessions
Aecon
Johnson Controls Canada LP/Johnson Controls, Inc.
Plenary Group (Canada) Ltd.
Infrastructure Ontario (IO)
Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO)
Hôpital Montfort
McMaster Innovation Park
ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development
Signature sur le Saint-Laurent Construction
Société québécoise des infrastructures
Rosatom/AtomStroyExport (ASE) JSC
Nouvelle Autoroute 30
Horizon North (formerly Dexterra)
Insurance Tier 3
The team at Gowling WLG stands out for its expertise in insurtech and financial services regulation. Toronto-based Filomena Frisina co-chairs the firm's financial services regulatory group and has extensive experience in insurance-sector M&A, as well as in the establishment and incorporation, and the purchase and sale of insurance companies. Belinda Bain, who leads the insurance and professional liability practice group, handles a broad range of contentious and regulatory work, including municipal and professional liability, and product liability.
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Key clients
Ally Financial
Alpine Insurance & Financial Inc.
City of Hamilton
City of Toronto
College of Psychologists
Cor Group Inc.
Faithlife Financial
Farnese Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Keyera Corporation QBE Services Inc.
QBE Insurance Group Ltd.
Siemens Canada
Skipthedishes Restaurant Services Inc.
Sodexo Canada Ltd.
TD Insurance
Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company
International trade Tier 3
Core services for Gowling WLG's trade group includes customs compliance and audits, investment litigation, anti-dumping and countervail inquiries and customs classification. The team acts for Canadian and foreign manufacturers, importers and exporters, assisting with the creation of corporate compliance programs, among other matters. Ottawa-based Wendy Wagner leads the practice; she has wide-ranging experience of investment agreements, export controls and sanctions, and customs compliance.
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Key clients
Impex Solutions
Landmark Trade Services/Landmark Global
Real estate Tier 3
Gowling WLG's 'very capable' real estate team is rated by clients for its 'diverse industry knowledge and great geographical coverage'. Headed by Vancouver-based Joel Camley, the team advises a diverse roster of clients including multinational development companies, Canadian and international pension funds, First Nation groups, government bodies, REITs and financial institutions. The practice group is also known for its expertise in real estate finance, where it benefits from close collaboration with the firm's wider banking, structured finance and debt restructuring groups. Also in Vancouver is Murray Braaten, who focuses on commercial real estate development and has particular experience of resort development. Clients have also recognized Pamela Green in Ontario, thanks in part to her 'broad legal knowledge beyond her area of specialty'.
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Testimonials
‘Gowling have grown and adapted to the times and have developed a team coverage culture that ensures that our top to bottom relationships at the firm communicate freely with us and between themselves.‘
‘Very capable and diverse industrial knowledge with great geographical coverage.‘
‘Pamela Green is our lead lawyer and is very capable in her broader legal knowledge beyond her area of speciality which adds significant value.‘
‘Murray Braaten has a wealth of experience and knowledge and can coordinate the most complex real estate legal structures.‘
Key clients
Amazon
Brothers Real Estate Ltd.
Canopy Growth Corporation/Tweed Farms Inc.
Heritage Ottawa
InterRent Real Estate Investment Trust and CVL Group
InterRent REIT
Rekai Centre
Roca Homes (Southminster) Inc.
SHAPE Properties Corp.
Shergar Developments Inc.
Starbucks
Taggart Realty
Under Armour
Urbacon Montreal Limited Partnership
Restructuring and insolvency Tier 3
Gowling WLG is distinguished in part by its strength in creditor-side work, in which it is regularly instructed by several of Canada's largest banks. The firm's global network places the practice group in an excellent position to advise on multi-jurisdictional restructurings and insolvencies. In terms of industry expertise, the team has been especially active in the areas of construction and retail. Litigator Clifton Prophet leads the department from Toronto alongside David Cohen, who heads up the financial services industry group. Derrick Tay, who had led the corporate restructuring practice, retired in December 2019.Practice head(s):
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Key clients
The Bowra Group
Farm Credit Canada
Philip Morris International Inc.
Callidus Capital Corporation
Ivanhoé Cambridge
Labour and employment Tier 4
The labour and employment practice at Gowling WLG provides 'practical, business-first advice' to international companies seeking to establish a presence in Canada. The firm draws its clients from a wide range of industry sectors, including financial services, manufacturing, technology and life sciences. Bettina Burgess heads the national practice group, with regional groups led by Andrew Bratt in Toronto, Maxwell Brunette in Calgary and Vancouver, Josée Gervais in Montréal and Mark Josselyn in Ottawa.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Max Brunnette does a great job at providing practical, experienced-based advice.’
‘Practical, business-first, advice. Gowling’s lawyers understand how legal tasks fit into our larger business strategy.’
Key clients
Crawford & Company (Canada) Inc.
CPC Logistics Canada Ltd.
FDM Group
Länk Football Group Inc.
Starbucks
Geosoft Inc.
Carter’s/OshKosh B’gosh
Party City Holdco Inc.
Mining Tier 4
Gowling WLG is best known for its M&A and corporate finance work, where it has experience acting for clients in the mineral exploration and development sectors. The firm's international coverage attracts a variety of multinational clients in particular. The wider natural resources group is led by Calgary-based Stuart Olley, who is recognized for his financing and securities work. France Tenaille in Toronto leads the firm's Latin America and Cuba teams. Denis Silva left for DLA Piper (Canada) LLP in June 2020.
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Key clients
Adventus Mining Corporation
BatteryOne Royalty Corp.
K92 Mining Inc.
Karmin Exploration Inc.
Largo Resources Ltd.
Metalla Royalty & Streaming Ltd.
Minera Alamos Inc.
Nicaragua Milling Company Limited
North Peak Resources Ltd. (formerly Interbit Ltd.)
Sabina Gold & Silver Corporation
Tempus Resources Limited
Oil and gas Tier 4
Gowling WLG acts both for public and private clients in the upstream, downstream and midstream energy segments. The practice group comprises a mix of oil and gas and regulatory specialists, and excels in transactional and commercial work, including joint ventures, public offerings, energy trading and M&A. Led out of Calgary by transactional partners Lorne Rollheiser and Stuart Olley, the department also benefits from the firm's full service offering to support clients across competition, tax, IP, employment and environmental matters.
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Key clients
Bravo Target Safety
Persist Oil and Gas
Intelligent Wellhead Systems Inc. (“IWS”)
CGL First Nations Limited Partnership
Blood Tribe
Macquarie Oil Services Canada Ltd.
Clear Directional Drilling Solutions Ltd.
Pipestone Energy Corp.
EOG Resources Inc.
Paytah Services Inc.
Tax Tier 4
Gowling WLG is distinguished by its strength in multi-jurisdictional private equity fund formation and inbound and outbound downstream investment structuring. The firm also features robust tax disputes and executive compensation practices. Paul Carenza leads the national tax practice from Toronto, alongside Steven Novoselac, who heads the tax disputes group. Ottawa-based Dale Hill is another name to note; he leads the firm's transfer pricing and competent authority group. In 2019, Ted Thiessen joined the Calgary office from Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP and Christine Perry joined in Toronto from Keel Cottrelle LLP.
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Key clients
Alectra Inc.
LaSalle Investment Management – LaSalle Canada Property Fund LP
Raymond Toth
Cummins Inc.
Tesla Inc.
Party City Canada
Investment Management Corporation of Ontario – Workers Safety and Insurance Board
Technology Tier 4
Gowling WLG provides broad coverage of the technology sector, advising on financing transactions, outsourcing, compliance, and privacy and cybersecurity matters. The group's expertise spans a range of technologies, including blockchain, various fintech and insurtech technologies, AI and the internet of things. Viona Duncan heads the group from its Waterloo office and routinely advises on complex M&A transactions in the technology sector. Also of note, the team welcomed several new arrivals toward the end of 2019; among them, technology and capital markets partner Todd Bissett joined from Miller Thomson in October 2019.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘The firm’s technology practice is very experienced and well rounded. Each individual brings tremendous insights and collectively they are able to provide quick, concise advice.’
Key clients
Amazon
eBay
Blackhawk Network Holdings Inc.
Bombardier Inc.
STMicroelectronics
National Angel Capital Organization
Starbucks
Interac Corp.
McRock Capital Corporation
Honeywell
Shopify
Banking and finance Tier 5
Gowling WLG’s banking and finance practice is adept in corporate lending, debt capital markets, structured finance and project finance transactions. The firm has been particularly active on behalf of corporate borrowers of late, but it also acts for banks and alternative lenders, including credit unions and pension and private equity funds. Toronto-based David Cohen heads up the national financial services group and is recommended for restructuring, private equity and lending transactions. Christopher Alam, also in Toronto, spearheads the national lending group. In Calgary, Elizabeth Burton specializes in financings in the energy, real estate and Indigenous business spheres.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘From our perspective, the quality of the work produced by Calgary’s banking & finance group at Gowlings is very good. Our experience with them has been in their capacity as lenders’ counsel, primarily in the bilateral and mid-market space.’
‘We have primarily worked with Elizabeth (Beth) Burton. Beth is responsive, practical and exhibits great expertise in her field, particularly in the cannabis financing sphere. Reagan Chornoboy also stands out, even though she is a fairly junior associate. Reagan is incredibly keen, has an astute business mind and shows experience well beyond her year of call (2018).’
Key clients
ATB Financial
Silversmith Capital Markets
NAV Canada
TD Greystone Infrastructure Fund (Global Master) LP and IST3 Investment Foundation
Absorb Software
Acciona, Aecon
Mattamy Homes Corporation
Gowling WLG > Firm Profile
Gowling WLG is an international full-service law firm with more than 1,400 legal professionals in 19 cities across Canada, the UK, Continental Europe, the Middle East, Asia and South America.
From complex cross-border transactions and intellectual property matters to high-stakes litigation and disputes, we provide clients with sophisticated legal advice across a diverse range of areas. We pair this comprehensive service offering with in-depth experience in key global sectors, including advanced manufacturing, energy, financial services, infrastructure, life sciences, natural resources, real estate and tech.
Our firm is built on the belief that the best way to serve our clients is to be in tune with their world, aligned with their opportunity, and ambitious for their success. That’s why we collaborate across countries, offices, service areas and sectors to deliver tailored solutions specific to each client’s unique needs – no matter how challenging the circumstances.
Main areas of practice include: energy; financial institutions and services; life sciences; projects and infrastructure; real estate; tech; corporate, M&A and capital markets; intellectual property; and litigation and dispute resolution.
Additional sectors and services include: automotive; aviation, aerospace and defence; administrative law; advertising and product regulatory; banking and finance; blockchain & smart contracts; charities and not-for-profits; competition and antitrust; construction and engineering; employment, labour and equalities; entertainment law; environmental law; food and beverage; gaming; government affairs; Indigenous law; insurance and professional liability; manufacturing; municipal law; natural resources; pensions; privacy and data protection; private equity; procurement; restructuring, bankruptcy and insolvency; retail and franchising; Supreme Court of Canada services; tax; and white-collar defence and investigations.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Automotive | |||
Aviation, aerospace and defence | |||
Construction and engineering | |||
Energy | |||
Financial institutions and services | |||
Food and beverage | |||
Life sciences | |||
Manufacturing | |||
Natural resources | |||
Projects and infrastructure | |||
Real estate | |||
Retail and franchising | |||
Tech | |||
Advertising and product regulatory | |||
Banking and finance | |||
Capital markets | |||
Charities and not-for-profits | |||
Competition and antitrust | |||
Corporate commercial | |||
Employment, labour and equalities | |||
Entertainment law | |||
Services | |||
Environmental law | |||
Fintech | |||
Government affairs | |||
Gaming | |||
Indigenous law | |||
Insurance and professional liability | |||
Intellectual property | |||
Litigation and dispute resolution | |||
M&A | |||
Pensions | |||
Privacy and data protection | |||
Private equity | |||
Procurement | |||
Real estate | |||
Restructuring, bankruptcy and insolvency | |||
Supreme Court of Canada services | |||
Tax | |||
White-collar defence and investigations |
Staff Figures
Number of Partners : 439 Number of other fee-earners : 368 (practising professionals, excluding clerks/paralegals) Total staff : 2,119 (including the above)Comparative Guides
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Germany: Intellectual Property
Published: June 2020
Authors: Thomas Becher Felicitas Forster Niels Hölder Esther Pfaff Michaela Ring
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Intellectual Property laws and regulations that may occur in Germany.
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United Kingdom: Intellectual Property
Published: June 2020
Authors: Jenny Davies Mathilda Davidson
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Intellectual Property laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
Top Tier Firm Rankings
Firm Rankings
- Aviation
- Cannabis
- Environment
- Media and entertainment
- Power
- Public procurement
- Business immigration
- Corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution
- Infrastructure projects
- Insurance
- International trade
- Real estate
- Restructuring and insolvency
- Labour and employment
- Mining
- Oil and gas
- Tax
- Technology
- Banking and finance