Introduction

In the world of law, skepticism often follows innovation. When Mitch Frazer left his prestigious position at Torys LLP to launch the Canadian office of the American law firm Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo PC, he was bombarded with doubts. Critics disparaged the decision with comments like, “It’ll be dead in three years,” or “They won’t attract talent.” Yet, as April marks two years since Mintz Toronto’s inception, it stands as a testament to determination, proving the naysayers wrong, and thriving in a competitive landscape.

Achievements Over Two Years

Bob Bodian, managing partner of the Toronto office, expresses pride in their journey, noting, "We're meeting expectations across the board." Although the office has not yet reached full profitability, Bodian insists that the numbers don't tell the whole story. The Canadian office has become a vital conduit for work flowing to the U.S. side—highlighted by a significant $4 billion deal involving Future Electronics, a Montreal-based corporation. This transaction showcases how Mintz's cross-border capabilities are shifting the paradigm in legal service provision.

Client Base Growth

Mr. Frazer echoes this sentiment, stating the firm gradually builds its client base, driven not just by referrals but also by attracting high-value work that necessitates coordinated north-south legal support. This unique offering is becoming essential as a growing number of Canadian corporations make investments in the U.S. market, eliminating the need for firms to juggle two different legal partnerships.

Talent Acquisition

Concerns regarding the firm’s ability to attract skilled lawyers have also been dispelled. Mintz Toronto recently welcomed three prominent lawyers from rival firms, enhancing its capabilities and expertise significantly. Litigator Emily Fan, energy expert Adam Banack, and corporate attorney Geoffrey Cher have joined the ranks, bringing rich experience and valuable client relationships that further solidify Mintz's standing.

Team Expansion

Since its launch with just five founding partners, Mintz Toronto's team has expanded seven-fold, now encompassing 35 lawyers. The founders—each bringing impressive portfolios and loyal clients—laid a strong foundation, enabling rapid growth. Notably, Cheryl Reicin, who previously led Torys’ life sciences practice, brought along 84 clients and now serves as co-chair of Mintz’s life sciences division, reinforcing the depth of expertise available.

Office Location and Symbolism

Mintz's office location at the Royal Bank Plaza South Tower marks not just strategic success, but symbolizes a literal and metaphorical establishment within Toronto’s business fabric. As Mr. Frazer recalls the day the firm's logo was finally displayed, it was a celebration of turning mere ambition into reality.

Collaborative Profit Model

Mintz operates differently than many international firms by sharing a unified profit pool across its offices instead of maintaining separate accounts, which fosters collaboration and group cohesion. Bodian emphasizes that “Toronto just fits perfectly” into Mintz’s larger vision—mirroring its culture and approach as a singular, integrated firm.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Mintz's commitment to the Toronto market remains strong. “We’re in this for the long haul,” Bodian asserts, reinforcing that the journey is just beginning. With plans for annual retreats and strategic growth on the horizon, Mintz Toronto stands as a shining example of resilience and foresight in the ever-evolving legal industry landscape.

Conclusion

Stay tuned! Mintz Toronto's success could just be the beginning of a new era for cross-border legal services!