These firms stood out for understanding client needs and enhancing efficiency
Canadian Lawyer has announced its Top Insurance Defence Law Boutiques for 2025-26, recognizing firms nationwide for their outstanding work.
The rankings are based on a comprehensive survey of lawyers, in-house counsel, and clients. They use a points-based system that factors in votes, peer reviews from Lexpert, and feedback from senior legal professionals. To qualify, firms must focus primarily on insurance defence.
The success of the top insurance defence law boutiques depends on their ability to understand client processes, improve efficiency, and deliver cost-effective, high-quality outcomes. Jacques Waite, corporate director of litigation at iA Financial Group, emphasizes that leading firms proactively address emerging issues to prevent reinforcing unfavourable precedents.
Since the pandemic, the demand for efficient and cost-effective legal solutions has increased, placing more significant pressure on boutique firms to optimize their services. Waite highlights that excellence in insurance defence requires more than legal expertise. It also involves assessing mitigating factors, such as analyzing medical reports in disability claims and selecting credible experts.
Benson Percival Brown LLP stood out among the nominees for its exceptional legal expertise and client service. The firm has been a leader in insurance defence for over 60 years and has earned its thirteenth consecutive recognition in Canadian Lawyer's rankings. Partner Eli Lipetz attributes this continued success to the firm's emphasis on tailored legal strategies rather than a standardized approach. He explains that the firm prioritizes building strong client relationships to ensure legal solutions align with their goals.
Stieber Berlach LLP has again been recognized among Canada's top insurance defence firms, marking its ninth appearance. The firm is known for its ability to handle high-profile and complex litigation, consistently delivering strong results at both the trial and appellate levels. Partner Elizabeth Bowker, a lawyer with extensive experience in insurance law and class action litigation, notes that the firm's reputation is built on its commitment to providing excellent client service and high-quality legal work.
Zarek Taylor Grossman Hanrahan LLP, also a nine-time honoree on the Canadian Lawyer's list, is recognized for its strong client relationships and service-oriented approach. Partner Eric Grossman emphasizes the firm's focus on being responsive, proactive, and invested in client success. Survey respondents highlighted the firm's supportive work environment, emphasizing work-life balance, mentorship, and high-quality legal work.
"We find it an incredible responsibility to get things right and to act for our clients and their insureds responsibly so they can be proud of us as an extension of their reputation," Grossman states.
Dutton Brock LLP also topped this year's rankings. A Toronto-based insurance litigation firm with over 40 years of experience, Dutton Brock is recognized for its commitment to excellence. The firm values strong relationships with clients and colleagues, fostering long-term partnerships built on trust and expertise.
Flaherty McCarthy LLP has also been recognized as a leading insurance defence boutique. The firm is known for its strategic, results-driven advocacy in insurance defence litigation, with notable contributions to landmark cases on limitation periods, collateral benefits, and jury trial rights. While expanding into estate and employment litigation, the firm maintains the same high standards that define its core practice. Managing partner Frank Benedetto emphasizes that this recognition reflects the dedication of the firm's lawyers and staff.
Canadian Lawyer congratulates the top insurance defence law boutiques for 2025-26. For more information about the winners, click here.