The real estate group at Torys harnesses the combined experience of teams in Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Calgary and New York, to advise owners, investors, developers, government bodies and lenders (including such clients as Metrolinx and Toronto Metropolitan University) on projects involving large-scale multi-use developments, joint venture ownership, energy and infrastructure projects and phased development arrangements, throughout their entire lifecycles, from initial acquisition through development, management and disposition. The practice is headed by Sabrina Gherbaz and Graham Rawlinson, who both bring expertise to acquisitions, joint ventures and project finance. Other figures of note include Andy Gibbons, a specialist in the energy and infrastructure areas; Simon Knowling, who heads real estate investment trust (REIT) group; real estate private equity expert Charlene Schafer; and Rose Bailey, who brings extensive experience in commercial real estate, renewable energy assets and securitizations. All lawyers mentioned work in the Toronto office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Torys is a highly capable, incredibly professional team of talented lawyers. They are at the top of their class and give thoughtful, well-reasoned advice that is mindful of business objectives.’
‘All of the lawyers at Torys are very smart, well-trained and business-minded. They balance business objectives and risk well and are incredibly customer-focused on their response times to clients. I'm consistently impressed with the business judgment and deep knowledge of Simon Knowling and Graham Rawlinson, as well as many of the associates that are trained by them.’
‘ This practice stands out due to its holistic approach to client service, which emphasizes deep understanding, value delivery and fair billing.'
‘The individuals we work with are truly exceptional, making every interaction pleasant and productive. We work frequently with Andy Gibbons. Andy is a skilled negotiator and provides excellent, timely client service.'
Key clients
- Metrolinx
- McMaster Innovation Park
- Oneida Energy Storage LP
- Hackman Capital Partners
- Investment Management Corporation of Ontario
- Dorsay Development and Alberta Investment Management Corporation
- Toronto Metropolitan University
- The Corporation of the City of Pickering
- Windsor Private Capital Limited Partnership
- Ontario Power Generation
Work highlights
Advising Oneida Energy Storage LP, a joint venture between NRStor Inc. and Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation, in connection with a 250 MW battery storage project in Ontario.
Advising McMaster Innovation Park, a wholly owned subsidiary of McMaster University, in its proposed C$2bn development of the McMaster Innovation Park
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Sabrina Gherbaz; Graham Rawlinson
Other key lawyers
Andy Gibbons; Simon Knowling; Rose Bailey; Nooreen Bhanji; Scarlett O’Shea