Defending employers in high-stakes class actions is at the core of the labour and employment practice at Torys. It also advises on labour relations, occupational health and safety and employment standards. Accomplished employment litigator Lisa Talbot leads the group, with extensive experience in disputes and risk mitigation. Jennifer Lennon is best known for her executive compensation work, whilst Rebecca Wise typically acts in workplace investigations. Counsel Darryl Hiscocks is the go-to advisor for major transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Torys team continues to bring stellar support to any matter that we engage them on. Their ability to pivot on the most versatile and complex of matters is commendable. They are bright, sharp and can support their clients at pace.’
‘Lisa Talbot is the top labour and employment lawyer in Canada. She is extremely strategic and practical in how she approaches any file that I've worked with her on. She has an uncanny ability to connect with a diverse range of clients with diverse needs (and diverse personalities).’
The Torys team has depth and expertise across corporate, regulatory, and dispute resolution practices. If they do not have the in-house expertise, they have a strong network within provinces to support our matters.'
‘The lawyers and associates I have worked with at Torys stand out for their combination of technical expertise, business acumen, and a collaborative approach that consistently adds value. They are deeply invested in understanding our business and industry, which translates into practical and commercially sound advice.'
- 'Irfan Kara, the main partner we have interacted with demonstrates not only technical mastery but also exceptional client experience.'
Key clients
- Canadian Western Bank
- Smith Financial Corporation/Home Trust Company
- Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation
- Alamos Gold Inc.
- Veren Inc.
- Fortress Investment Group
Work highlights
Advised Canadian Western Bank on the employment aspect of its proposed C$5bn sale to National Bank of Canada, one of the six largest banks in Canada.
Advised Smith Financial on the employment aspects of its merger of Home Trust Company with Fairstone Bank of Canada.
Advisded Mérieux NutriSciences through matters such as negotiating and drafting the transaction agreement’s labour and employment language at the global level.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Lisa Talbot
Other key lawyers
Jennifer Lennon; Rebecca Wise; Darryl Hiscocks; Irfan Kara