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18 www.canadianlawyermag.com TOP 25 MOST INFLUENTIAL LAWYERS 2025 THE 16TH EDITION of Canadian Lawyer's Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers proves beyond a reasonable doubt that being influ- ential means changing how the system works. As someone who's had the privilege of working closely with some of Canada's most influential legal minds, Thomson Reuters' general manager of global large law firms, THE QUIET FORCE OF PRECEDENT Steve Assie, remarks that several qualities distinguish these exceptional practitioners: • mastery of legal craft • adaptability and creativity • relationship-building • commitment to nurturing the next generation "The legal community has an uncanny ability to identify authenticity and character. Influence ultimately gravitates toward good people – those who use their platform not merely for personal advancement, but to elevate others," he explains. "These lawyers understand that true influence is measured not by what you achieve alone, but by what you enable others to accomplish." Kirsti McHenry, Pro Bono Ontario execu- tive director, adds that recognition by peers, including legal media, regulators, and law associations, is a clear marker of influence, as is being invited to speak at notable legal gatherings. Significant achievements such as leading high-profile cases, contributing to law reform, mentoring, and sustained commitment to the profession all signal lasting impact. Each year, Canadian Lawyer invites nomi- nations from readers, legal associations, and editorial contributors to recognize those driving meaningful change. This year's shortlist was selected through a national survey, followed by voting from the publication's editorial board, who assessed each finalist's influence on the legal system over the past 18 months. The final 25 influential lawyers repre- sent five categories where legal impact GEOGRAPHIC REACH OF CANADA'S TOP 25 LAWYERS, BY CATEGORY City Changemaker Business Government/ Judiciary Human Rights In-House Toronto – Mississauga – – – – Ottawa – – – – Montreal – – Vancouver – – Calgary – – – – Edmonton – – – – SPECIAL REPORT