Top 10 Influential Rail & Road Transportation Lawyers in Canada 2023

The Canadian legal market boasts an array of experienced lawyers specializing in Transport: Rail & Road sector. These attorneys augment their sound understanding of the law with industry expertise to serve their clients. Be it a shipper, carrier, or railway-based organization, these lawyers are proficient in regulatory compliance, risk management and commercial litigations. Here we profile some of these exceptional lawyers to provide a peak into their services, qualifications and expertise.

Given the complexity and nuances of railway and road transport law, it is pivotal to identify lawyers who not only possess the requisite legal acumen, but also a sound understanding of economics, finance and market conditions. As the concept of globalization gains ground, more and more transport organizations require legal counsel that can blend local jurisprudence with international transportation regulations to provide a seamless service.

Moreover, client testimonials have time and again underscored the diligence, detail-orientation, and responsiveness of these lawyers. Besides handling various types of cases, many of these lawyers have garnered appreciation for their negotiation skills, proficiency in litigation, and understanding of compliance and risk management procedures. They not only undertake cases but also share their knowledge through thought leadership and participate in implementing industry standard regulations.

François Tougas

François Tougas is a reputed lawyer affiliated with McMillan LLP, specializing in regulatory proceedings before the CTA and commercial negotiations involving major railways and shippers. According to one of his clients, “He is the best lawyer that I have ever worked with; in addition to the law, he has a very impressive knowledge of economics and finance, which results in a very powerful combination.”

Brian Lipson

Working with McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Brian Lipson handles matters of regulatory compliance and risk management in his rail and road practice. A partner in the firm’s Québec City office, Lipson garners high praise from his clients for being “a strong advocate with the experience to advise on market conditions.”

Louis Amato-Gauci

Based in Toronto, Louis Amato-Gauci is affiliated with Miller Thomson LLP, providing regulatory counsel to cross-border motor carriers, shippers and other trucking clients. He is described as an “effective and experienced practitioner.”

Monique Evans

Specializing in railway matters, Monique Evans is a dynamic transportation lawyer associated with Hunter Litigation Chambers. Described as “extremely diligent and detail-focused” with a strong understanding of railway law, Evans recently advised the Freight Management Association of Canada on a freight rail issue investigation.

Forrest Hume

Working with DLA Piper (Canada) LLP, Forrest Hume is lauded as being “an expert in the field and extremely knowledgeable.” He represents shippers in various rail service complaints. His previous experience as an in-house rail lawyer pays dividends in his work on rail-related litigation and regulatory concerns.

John Landry

Co-chairing the firm’s Canadian litigation group, John Landry practices with DLA Piper (Canada) LLP. Instructed by shippers across diverse industries, Landry’s expertise lies in rate reasonableness cases and other service complaints before the Canadian Transport Agency.

Ryan Gallagher

Ryan Gallagher is a highly respected lawyer based in Vancouver and practising with McMillan LLP. Gallagher advises leading shippers and rail users on regulatory and compliance matters, drawing strong accolades for being “knowledgeable, responsive and supportive.”

Gordon Hearn

Toronto-based lawyer Gordon Hearn represents shippers, receivers, and their insurers in domestic and international cases involving transportation of goods. He also possesses regulatory and contractual experience.

Lucia Stuhldreier

Also associated with McMillan LLP, Lucia Stuhldreier is a well-regarded transportation lawyer and litigator who frequently advises on rail transportation concerns, including rate and service matters as well as commercial freight agreements. Described as “thoughtful, engaging and focused on client needs,” Stuhldreier is based in Vancouver.

Jaclyne Reive

Jaclyne Reive, a lawyer with Miller Thomson LLP, works with a range of clients in the transportation industry including road, rail and ocean carriers, passenger vessel operators, load brokers, logistic providers, warehouse operators and other freight intermediaries. Based in Toronto, Reive is applauded for posing “thoughtful and complex questions that increase the value of the work.