Solomon McKenzie

Solomon McKenzie has swiftly become an invaluable asset to our Litigation Group in Toronto, where he is diligently crafting a broad-based litigation practice. His expertise spans an impressive array of areas including commercial disputes, both international and domestic arbitrations, class actions, and the intricacies of public law alongside infrastructure and construction disputes. Solomon's contributions to various legal proceedings, ranging from hearings and trials to arbitrations and even a public inquiry, highlight his versatile legal acumen.

Graduating with a JD from the University of Toronto Faculty of Law in 2019, Solomon stood out not just academically but also as a pillar of leadership and community spirit, earning him the role of Class of 2019 Valedictorian. His remarkable contributions were recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Gordon Cressy Student Leadership Award, the John Willis Award, the Gina Caldarelli Memorial Prize for School Spirit, and the Dean’s Leadership Award. His leadership was further exemplified through his presidency of the Students’ Law Society, the Black Law Students’ Association, and Out in Law. Solomon's commitment to legal scholarship and service was evident during his tenure as a research assistant for Dean Brunnée and his impactful work as a Criminal Law Division Lead at Downtown Legal Services.

Before venturing into law, Solomon enriched his academic portfolio with a Master’s and a Bachelor of Arts (with Distinction) from McGill University, completed in 2015 and 2013, respectively.

Admitted to the Ontario bar in 2020, Solomon's professional engagements extend beyond individual legal practice. He actively contributes to the legal community as a member of the Advocacy Committee of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, serves as an advisor at Hard Feelings, and holds a board position with the Canadian Association of LGBTQ2S+ Lawyers (CALL/ICAL). His membership in the Ontario Bar Association and the Canadian Bar Association underscores his commitment to the legal profession.

Solomon's recent legal endeavors include pivotal contributions to significant cases and legal discourses. Notably, his involvement in appellate litigation, as evidenced by his insights into a Supreme Court of Canada case affirming the importance of "counter-speech," showcases his adeptness in navigating complex legal landscapes. Further, his analysis on the Court of Appeal for Ontario's stance on the “Student Choice Initiative” and his commentary on Ontario's approach to security for costs in international arbitration reflect his deep engagement with pressing legal issues.

Solomon McKenzie's journey in law, marked by distinguished academic achievements, leadership roles, and significant professional contributions, underscores his dedication to justice and his burgeoning influence in the field of litigation.