Best Business Lawyers in Toronto near me in 2025
When you’re starting, growing, or even exiting a business in Toronto, having the right legal support isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re a small business owner launching your first start-up or a seasoned entrepreneur, having a knowledgeable, experienced business lawyer can save you from costly mistakes.
But with so many law firms and solo practitioners out there, how do you find the best business lawyers in Toronto for 2025?
| Research indicates that Mann Lawyers, LLP, Gilbertson Davis LLP, LD Law LLP, Daoust Vukovich LLP, Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP,and Goodmans LLP are among the top lawyers for small enterprises, family businesses, start-ups, and franchisees. |
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It is really easy to narrow your search for the best business lawyers in Toronto in 2025. Fill out the form on this page, free of charge, and receive free offers from top law firms serving your area.
Why You Need a Business Lawyer in 2025
The legal landscape for business owners has become more complex. With changing regulations, labour laws, privacy standards, and tax obligations, it is easy to feel overwhelmed.
Here’s why you need a business lawyer in 2025:
1. Business Formation & Incorporation
Do you wish to incorporate your company or set up a limited partnership? A business lawyer helps you choose the right structure, handles the paperwork, and ensures compliance with Ontario’s legal framework.
2. Draft contracts that protect your interests.
From employment contracts to supplier agreements, business lawyers draft, review, and negotiate terms so you don’t enter into agreements that could put you at a disadvantage later on.
3. Dispute Resolution
If a disagreement arises with employees, partners, clients, or suppliers, a good business lawyer can help resolve it swiftly, fairly, and without damaging your reputation or finances.
4. Employment Law Guidance
The Ontario Employment Standards Act regularly changes in response to current conditions. A lawyer ensures that your recruitment, firing, and workplace practices comply with the legal standards.
5. Real Estate & Leasing Issues
Most businesses will lease a property at some point. Commercial leases are complex. A lawyer will ensure that you don’t sign something that ties you to unreasonable terms for years to come.
Who are the top business lawyers in Toronto?
We’ve researched dozens of business law firms and solo practitioners in Toronto based on their reputation, client reviews, credentials, and overall experience.
Here’s our curated list of highly-recommended business law firms for 2025.
1. Mann Lawyers LLP
Based in Toronto and Ottawa, this law firm provides legal assistance with incorporation, labour law, commercial leasing, contracts, and litigation, among other matters.
Mann Lawyers provide no-nonsense legal advice for all types and sizes of businesses. Many entrepreneurs in Toronto have turned to this law firm for succession planning, startup, and other legal issues.
They specialize in medium-sized businesses, family-owned companies, and startups.
2. Minken Employment Lawyers
Located in Markham but also serving Toronto, this law firm helps with labour issues, contract disputes, and compliance audits.
They specialize in employment-related legal issues, such as wrongful dismissal, and compliance audits.
If your business requires legal guidance regarding labour laws and practices, Minken Employment Lawyers is a great option.
3. Gilbertson Davis LLP
Located in downtown Toronto, this law firm specializes in commercial arbitration, business torts, corporate litigation, and partnership disputes.
With many years of experience under their belt, this boutique law firm handles partnership and commercial disputes skillfully and efficiently.
If your business is facing serious disputes or litigation, turn to Gilbertson Davis LLP for legal assistance.
4. Rogers & Company Professional Corporation
Located in North York, this law firm handles shareholder agreements, mergers and acquisitions, trademarks, and incorporation, among others.
This law firm is a solid choice for mid-sized businesses and startups. They offer flat-fee packages for contract reviews and incorporation.
5. LD Law LLP
Located in Downtown Toronto and Etobicoke, this law firm specializes in franchise law, commercial real estate law, wills and estates, and general business law.
LD Law specializes in helping small business owners with a comprehensive approach- not just legal help but business-focused strategy.
This law firm is a good choice for real estate investors, franchisees, and family-owned businesses.
6. Loopstra Nixon LLP
Serving the Greater Toronto Area, this law firm handles commercial leasing, zoning and municipal law, business law, and corporate finance.
Their expertise in real estate law and municipal law makes them the perfect choice for businesses with development projects or commercial properties.
With a strong background in municipal and real estate law, Loopstra Nixon is perfect for businesses working on development projects or commercial property. Regulated industries and real estate firms rely on this law firm for expert legal help.
7. Goodmans LLP
Located in Bay Street, Toronto, this law firm specializes in startups, venture capital, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate law.
If your company is heading toward IPO, raising millions in funds, or growing fast, Goodmans LLP is a great choice.
Would you like to connect with the best business lawyers in Toronto for your business needs? Fill out the form on this page and receive FREE quotes to compare with no obligation.
How Much Does a Business Lawyer in Toronto Cost in 2025?
Lawyers’ fees in Toronto vary based on the scope of work, their level of experience, size of the law firm, and other factors.
Below are average legal fees for your reference.
| Type of Legal Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | Free - $500 |
| Partnership Exit Agreement | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Mediation/Negotiation | $2,500 - $7,000 |
| Incorporation (Flat Fee) | $500 - $2,000 |
| Hourly Rate | $300 - $600 |
| Contract Drafting | $500 - $2,500 |
| Employment Policies | $800 - $3,000 |
| Litigation | $5,000 - $50,000 |
Some lawyers offer free initial consultation if you want to compare your options. Lawyers also ask for a legal retainer upfront before accepting the work which could range from $5,000 -$10,000.
If you have a tight budget for legal expenses, look for flat-fee legal services to minimize costs.
You should always ask the lawyer about his fees and billing practices during the interview.
Working with Business Lawyers in Toronto - FAQs
Hiring a business lawyer can feel intimidating, especially if it’s your first time.
You may be wondering about lawyers’ fees, when to hire a lawyer, or how to choose a business lawyer.
We have prepared some of the most common questions Toronto entrepreneurs and business owners ask regardingworking with a lawyer.
Whether you’re launching a startup, managing day-to-day operations, or dealing with a dispute, these answers will help you feel more confident and prepared.
Can I use a business lawyer located outside of Toronto?
Yes, but Toronto-based lawyers would have more knowledge of local zoning, city bylaws, and industry practices, and other relevant experiences.
Can a lawyer help me to recover unpaid invoices?
Yes. Business lawyers handle collections, debt recovery, and breach of contract matters.
Do I need a lawyer to incorporate in Ontario?
There is no legal requirement for you to hire a lawyer for incorporation in Ontario. You can choose to do it on your own. However, lawyers can customize contracts, and shareholder agreements reflecting your business needs to prevent legal risks.
What to do if I can’t afford a business lawyer?
While legal fees can seem like a lot to spend on, you can’t afford not to hire a business lawyer. You stand to lose much more if you are exposed to lawsuits, fines, and other risks. You can save on legal fees with flat-fee legal services or compare multiple quotes from reliable lawyers in Toronto.
Entering a Lease Agreement – Hire a Business Lawyer
When you are starting a business, it is exciting to search for a great location to launch your dream. If you find your ideal store or office building, don’t enter into a lease agreement without a business lawyer.
Hiring a business lawyer for a lease agreement is a crucial step for any entrepreneur, especially if you are signing a commercial lease.
1. Lease Terms heavily favour Landlords
Commercial leases are drafted by landlords who often hire lawyers to assist them. As a result, these leases tend to favour landlords and protect their interests. You also need someone to look out for your interests, making sure that the terms are fair. A business lawyer can also negotiate the lease terms to protect you from disadvantageous conditions.
2. Understand Hidden Costs
Your lease may include additional charges such as maintenance fees, property taxes, or shared utility costs, collectively known in Ontario as TMI - Taxes, Maintenance, & Insurance.
Consulting a lawyer can ensure that you are not agreeing to more than you anticipated.
3. Negotiate Clauses That Affect Your Business
A lawyer can assist you in negotiating critical clauses that could seriously impact your business such as renewal options and termination rights. It could also include exclusivity to prevent a similar business from setting up next to you.
4. Avoid Long-Term Liability
Commercial leases often require a lock-in period of 3 to 10 years. Breaking a lease can lead to hefty penalties. A lawyer can include exit clauses or limitation of liability to reduce your financial risk.
5. Protect Your Investment
If you are investing on renovations, major equipment, furniture, business signs, etc., your business lawyer can ensure you have legal rights to use and protect those investments throughout the duration of your lease. He can prevent your landlord from forcing you out before you have recovered those investments.
In short, a business lawyer will help you avoid the risks of investing in a property that belongs to someone else without legal assurance that your money is protected.
The Right Legal Partner Can Make or Break Your Business
In today’s fast-paced and increasingly regulated business world, having a trusted business lawyer is essential.
Whether you’re signing your first commercial lease, launching a start-up, resolving a partnership dispute, or preparing to scale your operations, the right legal guidance can protect your interests, save you money, and give you peace of mind.
Toronto is home to some of the most experienced and business-savvy lawyers in Canada. But the “best” lawyer isn’t necessarily the most expensive one. Rather, it should be someone who understands your goals, inspires your confidence, and communicates with you clearly.
Compare our partner lawyers to find competitive rates and save money. Seek legal advice early. The investment you make in solid legal support today could save your business from major legal issues in the future.
Use our free quotes service to connect with top-rated business lawyers near you in Toronto. It’s fast, confidential, and designed to match you with legal professionals who fit your needs and your budget.