Vera Toppings

Vera Toppings stands out as a seasoned litigator with deep expertise in navigating the complexities of commercial and civil litigation. She has a rich history of advising and representing a diverse array of clients, including those from sectors like banking, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and telecommunications, to name a few. Her role as Vice-Chair of her firm's Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department in Ontario highlights her leadership and expertise in the field.

Toppings' skills particularly shine in the arena of class action defense, where she has tackled significant cases that have addressed emerging and pivotal issues. Her work encompasses defending against allegations ranging from privacy breaches and product liability to price-fixing and securities misrepresentation, demonstrating her versatility and depth of knowledge.

Her collaboration extends beyond Canadian borders, working closely with U.S. law firms to defend multinational clients in global litigation matters. This international scope of work underscores her position on the firm’s U.S. Committee. Toppings has represented clients at all judicial levels within Ontario and British Columbia, the Supreme Court of Canada, and in front of both domestic and international arbitration panels, showcasing her comprehensive legal acumen.

Beyond her litigation practice, Toppings plays an influential role in the legal community. She chairs the national Class Actions Practice Group of The Advocates' Society and participates in several other legal committees and executive groups. Her dedication to education is evident through her past role as an adjunct professor at Osgoode Hall Law School and as a co-founder of the Osgoode Mediation Clinic, furthering the next generation of lawyers.

Her contributions to the legal field have not gone unnoticed. Vera Toppings has received numerous accolades, recognizing her as a leading lawyer in corporate/commercial law, dispute resolution, and specifically in class actions and corporate commercial litigation. These recognitions include listings in The Best Lawyers in Canada, The Legal 500 Canada, and the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory, among others.

Toppings' commitment extends to pro bono work and community involvement, having played key roles in various projects and initiatives that support access to justice and legal education. Her memberships and affiliations with prestigious legal associations and societies underscore her standing in the legal community and her commitment to advancing the practice of law. Vera Toppings embodies the fusion of expertise, leadership, and community engagement, making her a distinguished figure in the legal profession.