Canada’s legal community is home to a diverse group of outstanding lawyers who have distinguished themselves through their expertise, achievements, and commitment to justice. These lawyers cover a broad range of legal fields, from criminal law and immigration law to corporate law and family law. Whether representing high-profile clients, advocating for human rights, or advising on complex corporate transactions, these professionals shape the legal landscape of the country. Below is a detailed list of some of the most notable lawyers in Canada, who are leading their respective fields in 2025.
1. Marie Henein – Criminal Defense Expert
- Firm: Henein Hutchison LLP
- Specialization: Criminal Defense
- About Marie Henein: Marie Henein is undoubtedly one of the most recognized and accomplished criminal defense lawyers in Canada. With over 30 years of experience, Henein has represented clients in several high-profile and complex criminal cases, earning her a reputation for skillful courtroom strategies and unwavering commitment to her clients. Her defense in the Jian Ghomeshi case, among others, showcased her exceptional ability to handle tough and publicized criminal cases.
- Notable Achievements:
- Renowned for her effective cross-examinations and persuasive advocacy in court.
- Defended several prominent figures in Canadian society.
- Recipient of multiple accolades for her contributions to criminal law and advocacy.
2. Lorne Waldman – Immigration Law and Human Rights
- Firm: Waldman & Associates
- Specialization: Immigration Law, Human Rights Law
- About Lorne Waldman: Lorne Waldman is one of the foremost authorities on immigration and refugee law in Canada. His work has been instrumental in shaping Canadian immigration policies, and his legal expertise has been sought after in numerous landmark immigration cases. Waldman has built a reputation as a passionate advocate for immigrants’ rights and has been deeply involved in pro bono work to support refugees and vulnerable communities.
- Notable Achievements:
- Played a key role in significant immigration and refugee cases that impacted national policy.
- Advocated for greater legal protections for asylum seekers and refugees.
- Recognized as a leader in the fight for human rights and immigration reform.
3. David A. Lutz – Corporate Law and Mergers & Acquisitions
- Firm: McCarthy Tétrault LLP
- Specialization: Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions
- About David A. Lutz: David Lutz is a renowned corporate lawyer specializing in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), corporate governance, and securities law. His work in advising large corporations and businesses on complex transactions has solidified his status as a leader in corporate law. With a deep understanding of international business and capital markets, Lutz provides strategic counsel to clients navigating major corporate restructuring and M&A deals.
- Notable Achievements:
- Led major corporate deals and acquisitions that have shaped the Canadian business landscape.
- Regularly advises Fortune 500 companies on cross-border transactions.
- Recognized for his ability to structure complex deals and mitigate risks for clients.
4. Diane Redvers – Environmental Law Expert
- Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP
- Specialization: Environmental Law, Natural Resources
- About Diane Redvers: Diane Redvers is one of the leading figures in environmental law in Canada. With a focus on sustainability, natural resources, and environmental compliance, she provides advice to both private and public sector clients. Redvers is well-versed in handling environmental litigation, policy development, and legal matters concerning the energy sector. Her contributions to environmental law have made her an influential voice in advocating for sustainable practices.
- Notable Achievements:
- Assisted in key environmental litigation and policy reform cases.
- Advocated for responsible energy development and environmental protection.
- Known for her expertise in natural resources and environmental regulatory compliance.
5. John Campion – Litigation and Business Law
- Firm: Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP
- Specialization: Litigation, Business Law
- About John Campion: John Campion is a leading litigator in Canada, known for his experience in handling complex commercial and corporate disputes. With a deep understanding of business law, Campion frequently represents corporations in high-stakes litigation, including shareholder disputes, contract disputes, and class actions. His reputation for providing sound legal counsel during business conflicts has earned him recognition as one of Canada’s top litigators.
- Notable Achievements:
- Successfully litigated numerous high-profile commercial disputes.
- Expertise in strategic resolution of business conflicts and negotiation.
- Recognized as one of Canada’s top commercial litigators.
6. Rochelle L. W. Shapiro – Family Law and Divorce
- Firm: Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
- Specialization: Family Law, Divorce, and Child Custody
- About Rochelle L. W. Shapiro: Rochelle Shapiro is one of Canada’s leading family law experts, specializing in divorce, child custody, and spousal support matters. Shapiro is known for her practical approach to resolving sensitive family issues and has represented a range of high-net-worth individuals and celebrities. Her mediation and negotiation skills have made her a trusted advocate for families undergoing difficult transitions.
- Notable Achievements:
- Renowned for successfully representing clients in high-profile divorce cases.
- Skilled in the negotiation of child custody agreements and financial settlements.
- Recognized for her compassionate and strategic approach to family law matters.
7. J.D.P. McCulloch – Tax Law and International Tax Planning
- Firm: Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
- Specialization: Tax Law, International Tax Planning
- About J.D.P. McCulloch: J.D.P. McCulloch is a leading tax lawyer in Canada, known for his expertise in international tax planning and cross-border tax issues. He provides legal guidance to corporations, financial institutions, and individuals on complex tax matters. McCulloch’s ability to navigate the intricacies of Canadian tax law and his vast experience in international tax issues has earned him a reputation as one of the top tax advisors in the country.
- Notable Achievements:
- Advised major corporations and high-net-worth individuals on global tax planning.
- Represented clients in complex tax disputes and regulatory issues.
- Regularly called upon for his expertise in tax compliance and litigation.
8. Sandy P. K. Jain – Litigation and Corporate Law
- Firm: Bennett Jones LLP
- Specialization: Litigation, Dispute Resolution
- About Sandy P. K. Jain: Sandy Jain is a recognized leader in litigation and dispute resolution. He is known for his work on commercial disputes, corporate governance issues, and regulatory matters. Jain represents clients in large-scale litigation and class action suits, and his experience spans industries such as financial services, real estate, and energy. His strategic approach to conflict resolution and litigation management has made him a trusted advisor for businesses across Canada.
- Notable Achievements:
- Handled high-profile litigation and dispute resolution cases.
- Known for his strategic approach to managing complex commercial conflicts.
- Regularly sought after for advice on corporate governance matters.
9. Kimberly A. Orr – Intellectual Property Law
- Firm: Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
- Specialization: Intellectual Property Law
- About Kimberly A. Orr: Kimberly Orr is one of Canada’s leading intellectual property lawyers, specializing in patent law, copyright, and trade secrets. She has represented clients in complex IP litigation and has been involved in protecting the intellectual property rights of companies across various industries, including technology, pharmaceuticals, and entertainment.
- Notable Achievements:
- Successfully represented clients in significant patent infringement cases.
- Expertise in protecting intellectual property rights in technology and biotech industries.
- Known for her ability to secure valuable IP assets for clients in a competitive marketplace.
10. Stephen A. L. Hart – Corporate Law and Mergers & Acquisitions
- Firm: McMillan LLP
- Specialization: Corporate Law, Mergers & Acquisitions
- About Stephen A. L. Hart: Stephen Hart is a leading corporate lawyer with extensive experience in mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructuring. His client base includes large Canadian corporations, multinational companies, and financial institutions. Hart’s advice is highly sought after for both domestic and international transactions.
- Notable Achievements:
- Expertise in handling large-scale mergers and acquisitions.
- Known for his ability to advise on corporate governance and securities law matters.
- Trusted by top corporations for strategic counsel in high-stakes deals.