
Gowling WLG leverages experience in representing domestic and foreign banks, non-traditional and speciality lenders and large corporations on financings. Toronto-based Christopher Alam heads the national lending practice and handles lending transactions, project finance, and restructurings. Also recommended are Elizabeth Burton, who leads the group in Calgary; Toronto-based Robert Farmer, who contributes ‘deep understanding of all types of real estate finance’; and Toronto partners Kelby Carter and Lisa MacDonnell.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘My experience with Gowlings has been great. The banking and finance practice in Ontario is well-known in the market to be strong. It has the right people, who have deep experience across different industries and types of transactions. Lawyers are quick, resourceful and understand our needs.’
- ‘I've truly enjoyed working with Kelby Carter (partner) and Kaila Scarrow (associate). They were very approachable and understood our needs. Deals often have moving parts and they were accommodating with last-minute requests. As bankers, we appreciate a team that is willing to walk together.’
Key clients
- Bank of Montreal
- Bank of Ireland
Work highlights
Advised Bank of Montreal on a private equity-sponsored acquisition facility.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head
Christopher Alam
Other key lawyers
Elizabeth Burton; Robert Farmer; Kelby Carter; Lisa MacDonnell; Braden Sheps; Chris Colonval; Kaila Scarrow
