Intellectual Property
Canada Guide 2025 : Nationwide - Canada
Band 1
About
Provided by Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Gowling WLG is home to one of the largest and most highly regarded IP practices in Canada, as well as top teams in China, France, Germany, Singapore, the UAE and the U.K.
Our professionals deliver a full complement of intellectual property legal services to Canadian and international clients, including the enforcement of patents, trademarks and brands, copyright, industrial designs, trade secrets and related matters. We use technology to our clients’ full advantage, creating sophisticated processes that enable us to price our IP services at a level competitive to small firms without sacrificing the scope and depth of quality that a large and diverse firm provides.
We expertly manage and enforce global IP portfolios in range of key sectors, supported by the specialized education many of our professionals have in science, engineering and technology-related areas. This distinct combination of outstanding legal talent and in-depth industry knowledge enables us to better understand our clients’ work and help them maximize the full value of their IP assets.
Our intellectual property professionals have been shaping IP law for decades. Not only does Gowling WLG file more trademarks than any other law firm in Canada, but we continue to be the preeminent law firm in IP litigation matters. We manage tens of thousands of files and protect and enhance our clients' IP assets all over the world.
Chambers Review
Gowling WLG is renowned for its ability to handle a wide array of eye-catching IP mandates for a thriving Canadian and international client base. The law firm offers a deep bench of experienced practitioners knowledgeable in litigation and non-contentious proceedings. The team is highlighted for its impressive track record in IP disputes and notable strength in patent and trade mark matters. It regularly acts for clients in the technology, healthcare and sports sectors. The firm also offers notable expertise in trade secret and copyrightmatters and is able to provide representation in provincial courts across Canada. Its strength is particularly prominent in its Ottawa and Toronto offices.
Work Highlights
- Gowling WLG continued to assist Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada and Novartis AG with patent litigation involving their blockbuster drug Entresto.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"They have people with nuanced expertise ready for every facet of support required."
"Gowling WLG are highly qualified to handle complex and sophisticated matters."
"Gowling WLG understand our industry and business, so they take a strategic approach when tailoring solutions. The firm does a great job balancing our needs with the legal landscape."
"The Gowling WLG team provides regular and ongoing updates of cases as they progress."
"They are able to anticipate the commercial impact in a variety of situations."
"They have people with nuanced expertise ready for every facet of support required."
"Gowling WLG are highly qualified to handle complex and sophisticated matters."
"Gowling WLG understand our industry and business, so they take a strategic approach when tailoring solutions. The firm does a great job balancing our needs with the legal landscape."
"The Gowling WLG team provides regular and ongoing updates of cases as they progress."
"They are able to anticipate the commercial impact in a variety of situations."
Notable Practitioners
Ronald Dimock is a highly respected figure in the Canadian intellectual property market, with considerable experience leading complex patent infringement disputes. He is based in Toronto.
Christopher Van Barr is an experienced intellectual property litigator with notable expertise in patent infringement disputes. He represents industry-leading names in the pharmaceutical and technology sectors. He is based in Ottawa.
"Chris is an outstanding lead and a joy to work with."
Shelagh Carnegie acts for a number of impressive retail and consumer products brands, managing important trade mark portfolios and advising on expansion. She co-leads the law firm's global IP team from its Toronto office.
"Shelagh has got a strong reputation for being a creative and client-focused lawyer, achieving great results."
Ottawa-based litigator John Norman is particularly noted for his patent expertise, representing clients in disputes and advising on regulatory matters. He is particularly sought out by clients in the life sciences sector, ranging from domestic biotechnology companies to multinational pharmaceutical organisations.
Selena Kim is skilled at handling patent enforcement and strategy matters. She is based in Toronto and assists clients from a variety of sectors, including life sciences.
"Selena is very well aware of the complicated nuances of patent work, and her expertise and background is indispensable. She has the ability to make complex matters clear and digestible."
"She is really responsive, fast, organised and detail-oriented."
Ottawa-based Jay Zakaïb is an experienced IP attorney with a particular focus on infringement litigation. His impressive client roster features major brands in recreational products and gaming, as well as pharmaceutical companies.
"Jay has top scientific expertise and the ability to understand complex subject matter."
Based in Vancouver, Nelson Godfrey leads Gowling's trade marks group and is frequently seen advising on infringement litigation matters. His client roster includes companies in the manufacturing and retail sectors.
"Nelson understands our company and industry, and provides invaluable advice that often covers various scenarios with the pros and cons of each."
Laurent Massam is an increasingly prominent lawyer who frequently assists with patent infringement and enforcement mandates. He is based in Toronto.
"Laurent is an excellent communicator. He is effective and delivers excellent results."
Up-and-coming lawyer Natalie Rizkalla-Kamel is building an impressive reputation in the Canadian IP market, particularly for her trade mark expertise.
"Natalie is always available and provides effective advice."
Ranked Lawyers at
Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Nationwide - Canada
Members
Provided by Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Brian G. Kingwell
Michael Crichton
Stuart C. Ash
Industries
Provided by Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP
Automotive
Aviation, Aerospace & Defence
Construction
Energy
Financial institutions and services
Food & Beverage
Life Sciences
Manufacturing
Oil & Gas
Retail & Franchising
Technology