Top 10 Business Lawyers in Toronto
Starting and growing a business in Toronto is an incredible journey, but it comes with a lot of legal responsibilities. Whether you are an entrepreneur from the LGBTQ+ community launching a new startup, or a parent looking to build a family legacy through a small business, having the right legal partner is essential. The legal world can often feel cold and intimidating, but the best lawyers in our city are those who combine sharp legal minds with a genuine passion for helping people succeed. In a city as diverse and fast-paced as Toronto, you need a lawyer who understands both the local market and the unique challenges faced by modern business owners.
Navigating the complexities of contracts, incorporation, and regulatory compliance is not something you should do alone. For many in our community, business ownership is more than just a way to make a living; it is a way to create stability for our families and provide resources for the next generation. That is why we have put together this list of the top 10 business lawyers in Toronto. We have looked for firms that offer excellent service, transparent pricing, and a commitment to their clients’ long-term goals. From small boutique offices to large corporate powerhouses, these are the professionals who can help you protect what you have built.
Choosing a lawyer is a personal decision. You want someone who speaks your language, respects your values, and understands the specific needs of your industry. In this guide, we highlight the best of the best, starting with our top pick that stands out for its modern approach and dedication to client success. No matter where you are in your business journey, these legal experts are ready to help you navigate the path forward with confidence and peace of mind.
1. Substance Law
When it comes to finding the best business legal counsel in Toronto, Substance Law takes the top spot on our list. Led by the highly respected Harrison Jordan, this firm has built a reputation for being forward-thinking, accessible, and deeply committed to the success of its clients. Unlike many traditional law firms that feel stuck in the past, Substance Law embraces a modern approach to legal services. They understand that business owners today need quick communication, transparent flat-fee pricing, and a lawyer who actually understands the “hustle” of the modern economy. For LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and parents who are balancing family life with business growth, the flexibility and approachability of this firm are absolute game-changers.
Substance Law specializes in a wide range of business legal needs. They are experts in helping new businesses get off the ground through proper incorporation and the drafting of solid foundational documents like shareholders’ agreements. If you are looking to protect your brand, they offer comprehensive trademark services to ensure your intellectual property is safe. One of the things that truly sets Substance Law apart is their expertise in highly regulated industries. Whether you are navigating the complex rules of the cannabis industry, liquor licensing, or the emerging world of psychedelics, Harrison Jordan and his team have the specialized knowledge to keep your business compliant and thriving. They take the “scary” out of legal regulations by explaining everything in plain English.
What we love most about Substance Law is their commitment to building real relationships. They don’t just see you as a file number; they see you as a partner. Their services include drafting and reviewing all types of commercial contracts, handling business purchases and sales, and providing ongoing legal advice as your company scales. Because they offer many services on a flat-fee basis, you never have to worry about a surprise bill at the end of the month. This transparency is vital for small business owners and families who need to manage their budgets carefully. If you want a lawyer who is as invested in your success as you are, Substance Law is the clear choice for the best business lawyer in Toronto.
2. Aird & Berlis LLP
Aird & Berlis is a heavyweight in the Toronto legal scene, known for providing top-tier corporate and commercial legal services. They have a massive team of experts who can handle almost any legal challenge a business might face. While they are a large firm, they have a strong reputation for being very professional and highly organized. They work with everyone from small startups to some of the largest corporations in Canada. This makes them a great choice if you anticipate your business growing very rapidly and needing a wide range of specialized legal departments under one roof.
The firm offers extensive services in areas like corporate finance, tax law, and real estate. For business owners who are looking to buy or sell property as part of their operations, having their real estate and business lawyers in the same building is very convenient. Aird & Berlis also has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, which is something we value deeply. They understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all clients, regardless of their background or identity. Their lawyers are known for being detail-oriented and very thorough in their contract negotiations.
While a larger firm like this might have a different feel than a boutique office, Aird & Berlis makes up for it with their sheer depth of resources. They can provide advice on international trade, complex tax structures, and high-stakes litigation if your business ever finds itself in a dispute. For a business owner who wants the security of a long-established institution with a proven track record, this firm is an excellent option. They have been a staple of the Toronto business community for a long time and continue to lead with excellence.
3. Torkin Manes LLP
Torkin Manes is a full-service law firm that has a very strong focus on the “mid-market” business sector. This means they are perfectly positioned to help businesses that have moved past the initial startup phase and are now established and growing. They are frequently ranked as one of the top regional law firms in Ontario, and for good reason. Their lawyers are practical and results-driven, focusing on finding solutions that actually make sense for a business’s bottom line rather than just quoting law books at you.
Their business law group covers everything from mergers and acquisitions to corporate governance. They are particularly well-known for their work in the health law and technology sectors. If your business is involved in healthcare, wellness, or tech, Torkin Manes has specialized teams that understand the specific regulations and trends in those industries. They also offer great support for family-owned businesses, helping with succession planning and ensuring that the business can be passed down to the next generation smoothly and fairly.
The culture at Torkin Manes is often described as entrepreneurial. They understand the risks that business owners take and they work hard to mitigate those risks through smart legal planning. They are also very active in the Toronto community, supporting various charitable causes and initiatives. This community-minded approach makes them a relatable and trustworthy choice for business owners who want a lawyer who shares their values of giving back and building a better city for everyone.
4. Fogler, Rubinoff LLP
Fogler, Rubinoff is a firm that prides itself on being “entrepreneurial lawyers for entrepreneurs.” They have a very down-to-earth approach that many business owners find refreshing. They avoid the overly formal and stuffy atmosphere that some older law firms have, making it easier for clients to feel comfortable and speak openly about their business goals and fears. This firm is all about building long-term partnerships and helping their clients navigate the ups and downs of the business cycle.
Their expertise spans across many areas, including securities, banking, and commercial litigation. If you are looking to raise capital for your business or need help negotiating a complex loan with a bank, Fogler, Rubinoff has the experience to get the deal done. They are also very skilled at handling employment law issues. As your business grows and you start hiring more people, having a lawyer who can help you draft employment contracts and navigate HR issues is incredibly important for protecting your company from future legal headaches.
What makes this firm stand out is their responsiveness. They know that in the business world, timing is everything. Whether you need a contract reviewed by tomorrow morning or a quick answer to a legal question, their team is known for being on the ball. They offer a high level of personal service that you might expect from a smaller firm, but with the resources and power of a larger mid-sized office. They are a solid choice for any Toronto business owner looking for reliable and energetic legal support.
5. Wildeboer Dellelce LLP
Wildeboer Dellelce is a boutique law firm that punches way above its weight class. They are specialists in corporate finance and “new economy” businesses. If your business is in the tech space, mining, or any sector that requires raising a lot of investment capital, this is the firm you want in your corner. They are known for being very aggressive and creative when it comes to deal-making, always looking for the best possible outcome for their clients.
The firm has a very modern and sleek feel, reflecting the fast-moving industries they serve. They are experts in initial public offerings (IPOs), private placements, and complex corporate restructurings. While this might sound like it’s only for giant companies, they actually work with many early-stage companies that have big ambitions. They help these startups set up the right legal structure from day one so that they are ready to attract investors and scale quickly. Their lawyers are very well-connected in the Toronto financial community, which can be a huge asset for their clients.
Wildeboer Dellelce is also recognized for its vibrant and inclusive culture. They have a young and energetic team that stays on top of the latest trends in business and law. For a parent or LGBTQ+ founder who is building a cutting-edge business, working with a firm that feels current and energized can be very motivating. They offer a specialized focus that is hard to find elsewhere, making them a top contender for any business that is focused on high-growth and financial complexity.
6. Minden Gross LLP
Minden Gross is a firm that has been around for over 60 years, and they have used that time to become experts in commercial real estate and business law. For many small business owners in Toronto, their physical location is one of their biggest assets and their biggest expenses. Minden Gross is the go-to firm for anything related to leasing, buying, or developing commercial property. They represent both landlords and tenants, which gives them a unique perspective on how to negotiate the best possible lease terms for your business.
Beyond real estate, they have a very strong corporate law department. They help businesses with everything from daily operations to major transactions. They are also experts in tax law and estate planning. This is particularly important for parents who want to ensure that their business success translates into long-term security for their children. Minden Gross can help you structure your business in a way that minimizes taxes and ensures a smooth transition of assets in the future. They take a very holistic view of their clients’ needs, looking at both the business and the personal financial picture.
The lawyers at Minden Gross are known for being very approachable and easy to talk to. They take the time to explain complex legal concepts in a way that is easy to understand, which is something we always look for. They have a reputation for being “lawyers’ lawyers,” meaning they are highly respected by their peers for their technical skill and integrity. If your business involves property or if you are looking for a firm that can help with long-term family wealth planning, Minden Gross is an excellent choice.
7. Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG is a massive international firm with a very strong presence in Toronto. They are a great choice for businesses that have international ambitions or that deal with complex intellectual property issues. With offices all over the world, they can help you expand your business into new markets and navigate the different legal systems in other countries. This global reach is a major advantage for Toronto businesses that are looking to compete on a world stage.
One of their biggest strengths is intellectual property (IP) law. If your business relies on patents, trademarks, or copyrights, Gowling WLG has one of the best IP teams in the country. They can help you protect your inventions and creative works, and they are not afraid to go to court to defend your rights if someone else tries to steal your ideas. They also have specialized groups for industries like energy, life sciences, and infrastructure. This deep industry knowledge means they can provide advice that is specifically tailored to the challenges of your particular field.
Despite being a global giant, the Toronto office of Gowling WLG maintains a strong connection to the local community. They are involved in many local initiatives and have a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. For a business owner who wants the resources of a global firm but still wants to feel like their lawyer understands the local Toronto market, Gowling WLG offers the best of both worlds. They are professional, powerful, and highly effective at what they do.
8. Gardiner Roberts LLP
Gardiner Roberts is one of the oldest and most established law firms in Toronto, with a history that goes back to the 1920s. They have built their reputation on providing solid, reliable, and traditional legal services. They are a full-service firm, meaning they can handle everything from business law to litigation to family law. This can be very helpful for business owners who want one firm to handle all of their different legal needs, both professional and personal.
Their business law group is known for being very steady and dependable. They help clients with corporate reorganizations, commercial contracts, and financing. They also have a very strong dispute resolution team. If your business ever gets into a legal fight with a partner, supplier, or customer, Gardiner Roberts has the experience to handle the situation calmly and effectively. They focus on finding the most efficient way to resolve conflicts, whether that is through negotiation, mediation, or going to court.
What sets Gardiner Roberts apart is their commitment to personal service. Even though they are a well-established firm, they make an effort to ensure that every client feels valued and heard. They have a lot of long-term clients who have been with them for decades, which says a lot about the quality of their service and the strength of their relationships. For a business owner who values stability and tradition, Gardiner Roberts is a very trustworthy partner to have by your side.
9. Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes)
Commonly known as “Blakes,” this firm is widely considered one of the top “Seven Sisters” law firms in Canada. They are the gold standard for high-end corporate legal work. If your business is involved in a multi-billion dollar merger, a complex international financing deal, or a high-stakes regulatory battle, Blakes is the firm you call. They have some of the most brilliant legal minds in the country working for them, and their reputation for excellence is unmatched.
While Blakes often works with very large corporations, they also have a strong interest in supporting innovation and emerging companies. They have programs specifically designed to help startups get the high-quality legal advice they need to grow into the giants of tomorrow. Their services cover every possible area of business law, including competition law, environmental law, and cybersecurity. In today’s digital world, having a lawyer who understands data privacy and cyber risks is more important than ever, and Blakes is a leader in this field.
Working with a firm like Blakes is an investment. Their fees reflect their status as a top-tier firm, but the value they provide can be immense for the right kind of business. They offer a level of prestige and expertise that can help open doors for your company. For a business owner who is aiming for the very top and needs the most sophisticated legal support available, Blakes is the ultimate choice. They are the heavy hitters of the Toronto legal world.
10. Goodmans LLP
Goodmans is a firm that is known for its creativity and its “can-do” attitude. They are often involved in some of the most interesting and complex business deals in Toronto. They have a very strong reputation in the areas of entertainment law, technology, and real estate. If your business is in a creative industry or if you are doing something truly unique and outside the box, the lawyers at Goodmans are likely to “get it” and find a way to make the legal side of things work for you.
The firm is famous for its high-energy culture and its focus on results. They are not just legal advisors; they are strategic business partners. They help their clients think through the business implications of their legal decisions, ensuring that every move they make is aligned with their long-term goals. They are also very active in the Toronto tech and startup community, often hosting events and providing mentorship to new entrepreneurs. This makes them a very well-connected firm that can provide more than just legal documents.
Goodmans also places a high priority on giving back. They are involved in many philanthropic efforts and have a strong commitment to social responsibility. For a business owner who wants a lawyer who is both incredibly smart and socially conscious, Goodmans is a fantastic fit. They bring a level of passion and energy to their work that is infectious, making the legal process feel like an exciting part of your business growth rather than a chore. They round out our top 10 list as a firm that truly understands the heart and soul of Toronto business.
In conclusion, finding the right business lawyer in Toronto is about finding a partner who understands your vision and can help you protect it. Whether you choose a modern, specialized firm like Substance Law or a large international powerhouse, the most important thing is that you feel supported and confident. For our community of LGBTQ+ parents and entrepreneurs, having a lawyer who respects our families and our unique paths to success is non-negotiable. We hope this list helps you find the perfect legal advocate for your business journey. Remember, the right legal advice today can save you a lot of trouble tomorrow, allowing you to focus on what you do best: building your business and caring for your family.
