Max Laskin

Max Laskin, a pivotal figure at Goodmans within the Municipal and Land Development Group, brings an expansive toolkit to the table, addressing public and private sector needs throughout the sprawling landscapes of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). His expertise shines brightly when guiding clients through the labyrinth of land development applications, appeals, and the procurement of other municipal nods of approval, often entangling heritage and environmental considerations into the mix.

In the realm of municipal dialogues, Max is a familiar face, often advocating before councils, the Committee of Adjustment, and the Ontario Land Tribunal. His voice has also resonated within the halls of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, advocating for the intricate matters at hand. Max's contributions to urban intensification efforts are evident across the GTA's diverse neighborhoods, such as King-Spadina and Leslieville, stretching to the broader urban expanses of Vaughan and Richmond Hill. His dexterity in navigating development approvals is particularly notable in grand-scale master plans like East Harbour, Downsview, and the bustling Square One Shopping Centre.

Max's involvement stretches beyond the courtroom and council chambers. He imparts wisdom on planning law at the University of Toronto, shaping future minds in the Master’s in Planning program. His contributions to municipal law discourse, covering a breadth of topics from inclusionary zoning to aboriginal consultation, underscore his comprehensive grasp of the field. Volunteering his insights to high school students through the Urban Land Institute's UrbanPlan program, Max plays a crucial role in demystifying the complex world of urban planning and development.

Armed with a J.D. from the University of Toronto and a B.Comm. from McGill University, Max's educational background lays a solid foundation for his professional endeavors. His active participation in the Law Society of Ontario, Canadian Bar Association, Ontario Bar Association, and the Urban Land Institute signifies his deep engagement with the legal community.

Max's work is punctuated by pivotal client updates, ranging from seismic shifts in Ontario’s land use planning framework to the intricacies of Toronto’s growth funding exercise. His insights into the legislative landscape provide invaluable guidance to clients navigating the ever-evolving terrain of municipal and land development law.

Within the corridors of Goodmans, Max's recognition as a partner and his celebrated role in shaping municipal law across Canada highlight his impact. Whether dissecting the implications of Bill 23 or demystifying Toronto's approach to inclusionary zoning, Max's contributions are instrumental in guiding clients through the complexities of land development and municipal law. His engagement in conferences and firm news further cements his reputation as a beacon of knowledge and leadership in the field.