What has been the highlight of your practice over the past 12 months?

Adjusting to the global tax rules. There are so many international developments that have had a significant impact on Canada. Disclosure has also been a large area of focus for us, including lack of privacy.

How did you get into private client?

I started in tax at Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg 23 years ago. I liked the private client space as a I found that in tax, it was an opportunity to have a diverse practice. As such, my clients are UHNW families with significant operating businesses, dealing with both the corporate tax and the planning for families. I enjoyed this variety and continued from there. There are very few areas where you get to do planning, advisory as well as transactional and dispute resolution as part of one practice.

Do you have any outside interests or hobbies?

I love art and music.

When the restaurants reopen, where would you like to go?

Starbucks – my go to!

Where have you seen growth in your practice over the last year?

There has been significant growth in both tax planning and philanthropy related issues in my practice over the last year, a trend I anticipate will continue.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Plan for a pandemic.

What has been the highlight of your practice over the past 12 months?

We had the special recognition of winning “Boutique of the Year” at STEP Private Client Awards in September 2019. Having so many long-term relationships with numerous clients is wonderful, as we can share their journey with them from a legal and personal planning viewpoint. Additionally, being a part of planning for the next generation of clients and their development is a highlight. The ability to close the door to the boardroom and provide guidance and offer solutions in a private and confidential manner for issues which plague many of our clients is very rewarding.

How did you get into private client?

As a first year associate, I was asked to join the trust and estates group. I’ve always wanted individuals as clients as opposed to doing corporate work. It was a good fit and I kept to it. I am into my 38th year.

What advice would you give rising stars/new lawyers in the private client world?

As a guiding principle, remember that the interests of the client always come first and our role is to try our very best to achieve the best outcomes we can in a responsible and ethical manner.

What is your favourite quote?

“Less is more.”

Do you have any outside interests or hobbies?

Personal Training – I train 2-3 times a week. I love outdoor activities like boating, canoeing, biking, downhill skiing and cross country skiing. Gastronomy, current affairs, political events and of course travel.

When the restaurants reopen, where would you like to go?

Crossroads, up in the lake area north of Toronto. And Jacobs, the best steakhouse in Toronto in my view.

Where have you seen growth in your practice over the last year?

Multijurisdictional and cross-border Canada-U.S. estate planning.

Can you identify any new areas you have developed within your practice to further benefit your clients?

Cross-border and multijurisdictional estate planning and estate administration issues, conflict of laws issues dealing with succession matters.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Be patient, be focused. Enjoy the people - your clients and colleagues. Do the best you can each and every time and what goes around comes around.