Aaron Lealess

Raised near Ailsa Craig, Ontario, Aaron carved a path of academic and professional excellence early on. With an Honours degree in Economics from McMaster University, achieved in 2004, and a spot on the Dean’s Honour List, his foundations were solid. His academic journey continued at the University of Western Ontario, where he pursued a Bachelor of Laws. It was during this time, in 2006, that Aaron's connection with Beckett began, initially joining as a law student before graduating in 2008 and becoming a member of the Ontario Bar in 2009.

At Beckett, where he now serves as a senior partner, Aaron has dedicated his career to championing the rights of those who have suffered sexual abuse. His commitment extends across various courts in Canada, including the Superior Court of Justice and the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, among others. Notably, Aaron played a significant role in the Cornwall Public Inquiry, advocating on behalf of victims to scrutinize how institutions dealt with sexual abuse allegations.

Aaron's legal prowess has led to significant victories in court. Collaborating with Robert Talach, they achieved a landmark $610,000 award in 2011 against the Roman Catholic Diocese of London for a client abused by a priest. This partnership also secured a $2.6 million verdict in 2018 for another abuse victim, marking a substantial judgment that included punitive damages. Aaron's ability to secure justice for his clients was further evidenced in 2021 when he negotiated a $1.1 million settlement for a victim of teacher sexual abuse.

His work has not only brought justice to many but also garnered attention from major news outlets like CBC News and The Globe and Mail. Beyond his legal career, Aaron is also a committed Naval Reserve Officer in the Canadian Forces, a role he has embraced since 2001. His life outside the courtroom is filled with a passion for ice hockey, outdoor adventures, and water sports, reflecting a balanced life of dedication, service, and personal enjoyment.