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20 www.canadianlawyermag.com TOP 25 MOST INFLUENTIAL LAWYERS 2025 For McHenry, pro bono work and commu- nity service are integral to that blueprint. "It's a natural opportunity to demon- strate leadership, live by your values, and ensure access to justice is real and available to people who cannot otherwise afford a lawyer," she says. Lawyers who do pro bono learn more about their communities and legal needs, and this deeper knowledge draws others to them for insight. Assie sees these traits clearly in the profession's rising leaders. He says, "The lawyers who will maintain and grow their influence are those who can bridge gener- ational divides, leveraging their experi- ence while embracing new methodologies and perspectives." That includes fluency in emerging tech- nologies such as AI, openness to hybrid work, and a deeper understanding of what new talent expects from legal culture. "To remain influential and relevant, lawyers must become conversant in these approaches. Those who resist or dismiss these evolving expectations risk being perceived as disconnected from the future talent pipeline of their firms," Assie explains. The mentorship effect Assie's view on mentorship was shaped early in his career, when he noticed that the most successful lawyers were invariably the most patient and earnest mentors. That insight stuck with him. Years later, he sees a clear through- line between those early mentors and the recognition they've earned in the profes- sion. "This isn't coincidental. It reflects a fundamental truth about influence in the legal profession." Within law firms, especially, mentorship takes on even greater significance. Senior lawyers build the next generation of part- ners, shape firm identity, and pass on institu- tional knowledge. IN PRAISE OF THE TOP 25 MOST INFLUENTIAL LAWYERS SPECIAL REPORT Al Hounsell: "An innovator and trailblazer in legal education. As both professor and colleague, he equips the next generation of lawyers for the tools of today and tomorrow." Avi Weiss: "He keeps in-house lawyers informed and connected, responding quickly to trends like AI. His community-focused approach is redefining legal support." Beth Beattie: "She has transformed the conversation around mental health in law through courageous leadership, lived experience, and advocacy." Brett Colvin: "He's reimagining how law is practised and modernizing client service. The platform he and his team built is elevating the entire profession." Deepa Mattoo: "She speaks for those who can't be at the table. Her unwavering commitment to amplifying marginalized voices makes her a daily inspiration." Doug Nathanson: "A standout leader who brings business acumen and legal expertise to the table. At Sobeys, he's been instrumental in navigating complex challenges and driving strategic growth." Fraser MacLean: "He's sparked a national conversation on AI in justice, led real change through landmark cases, and mentors young lawyers, all before age 35." Geoffrey Morawetz: "The czar of insolvency law in Canada. When this Chief Justice speaks, the entire community listens." Maureen Killoran, KC: "She runs a prolific practice, delivers exceptional client advice, and mentors and inspires large teams with grace and modesty." Patrick Boucher: "His legal expertise, strategic judgment, and professionalism are unmatched. What makes him exceptional is his generosity as a mentor. I've grown immensely under his guidance." Ritu Khullar: "Chief Justice Khullar champions equity and new lawyers while leading the Court with outstanding judgment and commitment to the rule of law." Roger Taplin: "Few lawyers have had as much impact as he has in shaping how cross-border mining deals are structured. His work has redefined global standards and elevated Canada's role in the international resource economy." Sharon G. Druker, Ad. E.: "She's been a changemaker for women in the legal profession since I first met her after McGill law school. She mentors young lawyers, sits on countless boards, and champions causes with lasting impact."