Arleen Huggins

Arleen Huggins stands out as a partner at Koskie Minsky LLP, where she leads the Employment Law Group. This group has earned accolades for its outstanding service, notably being ranked among the top in its field by the Lexpert/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada. Since her call to the Ontario Bar in 1991, Arleen has dedicated her career to navigating the complexities of employment law and human rights, earning her the highest respect in her field.

In December 2020, Arleen's exceptional contributions were recognized with the prestigious Law Society Medal from the Law Society of Ontario, a testament to her excellence and dedication. Further cementing her influence, she was voted by Canadian Lawyer readers in 2021 as one of the Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers in the Human Rights, Advocacy, and Criminal Law category. Her expertise in Labour and Employment Law also garnered recognition in The Best Lawyers in Canada for 2022.

Arleen's practice is rich and varied, focusing on employment law disputes for both employers and employees, workplace investigations, and equity audits. She has a particular specialization in addressing anti-racism and anti-Black racism, making significant strides in creating more equitable work environments. Her litigation experience spans the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Divisional Court, the Court of Appeal, and administrative tribunals.

Beyond representing clients in court, Arleen is skilled in drafting and negotiating complex employment contracts and related documents. Her work includes crafting non-solicitation and non-competition agreements and shareholder agreements for both employers and executives. She also has a strong track record in disability claims and human rights matters.

As a thought leader, Arleen is a sought-after speaker and has authored numerous articles and papers that reflect her deep understanding of employment law, human rights, and civil litigation. Her work includes insightful analysis on taxation issues related to wrongful terminations, fixed-term employment contracts, and the implications of drug and alcohol testing in the workplace.

Her leadership extends beyond her legal practice. Arleen has served as the Immediate Past President of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers (CABL) and provided pro bono legal counsel to Médecins Sans Frontières Canada. Her involvement with the Canadian Bar Association, the Ontario Bar Association, and The Advocates’ Society underscores her commitment to the legal profession and to promoting equity and justice.

Educated at the University of Toronto Law School and holding an Honors B.A. from the same institution, Arleen's foundation in law is complemented by her dedication to serving her community and advancing the legal profession. Her role as a trusted advisor to a diverse clientele, including private corporations, pension and trust funds, and Not-For-Profit organizations, highlights her ability to navigate and resolve complex legal issues with skill and compassion.