John Yiokaris

John Yiokaris excels as the lead of our firm’s Automotive Sector, leveraging his deep legal expertise to represent some of Canada’s most prominent automotive manufacturers and a multitude of dealers. His role extends beyond dealer development, encompassing a vast array of automobile dealership disputes and arbitration processes under the National Automobile Dealer Arbitration Program. As the spearhead of our Trademark practice, John's knowledge spans all facets of intellectual property, particularly in trademark registration and licensing.

He is a trusted advisor in the franchising realm, covering diverse sectors such as restaurants, grocery, hotels, real estate, and professional services. John’s skill set is particularly notable in navigating the challenges of distressed franchisees and facilitating transfers to bolster the franchise system. A significant chunk of his work is devoted to crafting strategic solutions for intricate franchise defaults, disputes, and terminations. As co-managing partner, he plays a pivotal role in our firm’s leadership.

Fluently speaking Greek and Swedish, John brings a global perspective to his practice. Admitted to the Ontario bar in 2000, his educational journey includes a Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall Law School and a Masters from Stockholm University, solidifying his legal foundation.

John’s expertise is widely recognized, earning accolades such as the Lexology Client Choice Award and rankings in Chambers Canada. His influence extends through his active participation in various professional associations, including the Canadian Bar Association and the Law Society of Ontario, showcasing his commitment to the legal profession.

His contributions to legal discourse are vast, with numerous speaking engagements and publications that span critical issues in franchising, intellectual property, and commercial law. These works not only underscore his status as a thought leader but also provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of law.

John's personal ethos is centered on delivering client-focused solutions that align with their strategic goals, underscoring his approach to legal practice as a partnership aimed at navigating opportunities and overcoming challenges with unwavering dedication and insight.