Stephen Furlan

Stephen, a partner based in the Toronto office, has emerged as a leading figure in the realm of project finance within Canada and beyond. His journey commenced with his law studies at the University of Toronto, further enriched by a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Queen’s University. Since his admission to the Ontario Bar in 1994, Stephen has dedicated over two decades to mastering the intricacies of lending and financing on a national and international scale.

His expertise extends to guiding clients through the complexities of high-profile and sophisticated project financings across various sectors including banking and financial services, infrastructure, energy and resources, power, and technology. Clients turn to Stephen for his practical approach and deep understanding of the dynamics and risks associated with their transactions.

As the head of the firm’s Business Law Group, Stephen oversees a team of more than 200 legal professionals spread across seven cities, equipping him with a unique perspective on managing complex operations. This experience proves invaluable in advising clients on how to navigate their own business challenges effectively.

Stephen’s pioneering work in project finance has seen him act as lead counsel in a plethora of significant transactions. These range from financing a bioenergy generation facility in British Columbia to advising on the development of Canada’s largest wind farm and numerous infrastructure projects, including hospital expansions and bridge constructions. His involvement often includes collaboration with Aboriginal communities, blending government policy with private investment.

His contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed, with numerous awards and rankings to his name. Chambers Global and Chambers Canada recognize him as a leading lawyer in project finance. He is also celebrated in The Legal 500 - Canada, The Lexpert/American Lawyer Guide, and The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory for his prowess in project finance, banking, and financial institutions, as well as energy and infrastructure law. Moreover, Lexpert has named him a Rising Star among Canada's top 40 under 40 lawyers, highlighting his influence in energy, infrastructure, finance, M&A, technology, and health sciences.

Stephen’s accolades extend to the IFLR 1000 Guide, where he is highly regarded for his work in financial services regulatory, banking, and project finance. His reputation as a leading lawyer in banking and finance, and project finance, is further solidified by Best Lawyers in Canada.

Stephen's comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape, combined with his commitment to client success, makes him a distinguished advisor in the realms of secured lending and project finance, especially within US and international markets, including Japan.