Stephanie Sugar

In the legal realm, Stephanie Sugar emerges as a distinguished figure, particularly within the litigation sector, where she plays a pivotal role as Partner. Her expertise is most notable in the sphere of consumer protection and regulation, where she navigates the complex terrains of commercial litigation, defense against class actions, and the intricacies of franchise law. Her legal prowess is not confined to any single court; indeed, her advocacy has spanned the Supreme Court of Canada, the Federal Court, and various judicial levels within Ontario. Beyond litigation, Stephanie is deeply engaged in matters of professional regulation and discipline.

Her intellectual contributions extend to authorship, with her notable work, "Franchise Law in Canada," shedding light on the evolving landscape of franchise law. This book explores the dynamic between newly established provincial regulations and the foundational principles of common law, providing a comprehensive overview of the legal framework governing franchising across the nation.

Stephanie's legal acumen is further evidenced through her involvement in high-profile cases. Noteworthy among these is her defense in the Supreme Court of Canada for Teranet Inc. against a class action on copyright infringement, a motion by Syngenta Canada Inc. to dismiss a claim before certification, and her successful defense in a judicial review concerning the registration of neonicotinoid pesticides. These cases underscore her adeptness in navigating complex legal challenges.

Her academic journey, marked by a JD from the University of Western Ontario followed by an LLM, reflects a deep engagement with the interplay between law and policy, particularly in the context of consumer protection. Stephanie's role as an educator, teaching Advanced Contracts at Western University and Class Actions at Queen’s University, further illustrates her commitment to shaping the next generation of legal minds.

A recognized voice in legal discussions, Stephanie frequently shares her insights through articles, blogs, and conference presentations. Her scholarly and professional achievements have garnered her numerous accolades, affirming her significant contribution to the legal community and beyond.

Franchising, a key focus of Stephanie's work, represents a vital business model that has witnessed substantial growth and regulatory attention in Canada. Her book serves as a critical resource for navigating the regulatory landscape that has evolved to address the complexities of franchising.

Her recent professional engagements span a diverse array of sectors, including mergers & acquisitions, banking & financial services, and consumer products, demonstrating her versatility and breadth of expertise in the legal field. These activities not only highlight her capacity for leading significant transactions but also her commitment to advancing legal practices in areas critical to economic and social development.

Moreover, Stephanie's contributions to legal scholarship, particularly in consumer protection, are evident in her analyses and critiques of legislative developments and judicial decisions. These insights not only contribute to the legal discourse but also guide practitioners and policymakers in navigating the ever-evolving legal landscape.

Educated at the University of Western Ontario and admitted to the Bar in Ontario in 2013, Stephanie's journey in law is marked by a steadfast dedication to excellence and advocacy, with her practice areas covering a broad spectrum from litigation and dispute resolution to class actions and consumer products. Her work significantly impacts industries such as retail, consumer markets, franchising, and food and beverage, where she continues to leave an indelible mark through her legal expertise and commitment to consumer rights.