Jonathan C. Lisus

Jonathan C. Lisus: A Litigation Leader Protecting Your Rights

For over thirty years, Jonathan C. Lisus has established himself as ‘the gold standard in this space,’ a truly phenomenal litigator recognized for consistently achieving landmark decisions across a diverse range of complex legal challenges. His extensive experience encompasses a broad spectrum of subject matter, including competition law, constitutional law, liability of public authorities, professional liability, criminal law, financial services, franchise law, contract disputes, and more. With a proven track record of success, Mr. Lisus provides strategic legal counsel and aggressive representation to clients seeking the most favorable outcomes.

Jonathan’s career is defined by a commitment to meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of the legal landscape. He has personally tried over 90 cases to judgment and meticulously argued over 55 appeals in provincial appellate courts and the Supreme Court of Canada, demonstrating a mastery of both courtroom strategy and appellate advocacy. His expertise extends to representing clients in matters critical to civil liberties, regularly appearing as Special Counsel to the Canadian Civil Liberties Association in challenging government action – a testament to his dedication to upholding fundamental rights and freedoms.

Recognized by leading legal organizations for his exceptional abilities, Jonathan holds Fellow status with the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, memberships in the Chief Justice of Ontario’s Advisory Committee on Professionalism, and participation in the Supreme Court Advocacy Institute, a prestigious group of appointed advocates. This unique affiliation underscores his commitment to continuous professional development and reinforces his position at the forefront of legal innovation. He maintains an active and dynamic trial and appellate practice across Canada, consistently delivering exceptional results for his clients.

Practice Areas

Mr. Lisus’s expertise covers a remarkably wide range of legal fields, offering clients comprehensive support for their most complex needs. He specializes in:

• Professional Malpractice Law: Protecting individuals and businesses from negligent legal or professional errors.
• Administrative and Public Law: Navigating complex government regulations and challenging government actions.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution: Utilizing mediation and arbitration to achieve efficient and cost-effective resolutions.
• Appellate Practice: Strategically defending or advancing legal positions in appellate courts.
• Bet-the-Company Litigation: Representing clients in disputes with significant financial or operational consequences.
• Class Action Litigation: Handling complex class action lawsuits on behalf of numerous plaintiffs.
• Commercial Leasing Law: Advocating for tenants and landlords in commercial lease disputes.
• Corporate and Commercial Litigation: Resolving disputes related to business operations and contracts.
• Director and Officer Liability Practice: Providing legal guidance and defense to corporate directors and officers.
• Franchise Law: Protecting the rights and interests of franchisees and franchisors.
• Product Liability Law: Pursuing claims against manufacturers and distributors of defective products.
• Real Estate Law: Handling a variety of real estate transactions and disputes.
• Securities Law: Advising on and litigating matters related to securities regulations.

Education & Credentials

Jonathan C. Lisus’s commitment to excellence is evident in his rigorous legal training and ongoing professional development:

• Legal Experience: Over thirty years of experience as a leading litigator.
• Case Results: Successfully tried over 90 cases to judgment and argued over 55 appeals in provincial appellate courts and the Supreme Court of Canada.
• Professional Affiliations: Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, a member of the Chief Justice of Ontario’s Advisory Committee on Professionalism, and a member of the Supreme Court Advocacy Institute.
• Recognition: Regularly recognized by peers and legal organizations for his expertise and accomplishments.

Awards

Mr. Lisus’s dedication and achievements have been consistently recognized within the legal community:

• Lawyer of the Year: Professional Malpractice Law (Toronto, Canada) – 2026
• Lawyer of the Year: Bet-the-Company Litigation (Toronto, Canada) – 2025
• Recognized: Administrative and Public Law, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Appellate Practice, Bet-the-Company Litigation, Class Action Litigation, Commercial Leasing Law, Corporate and Commercial Litigation, Director and Officer Liability Practice, Franchise Law, Product Liability Law, Professional Malpractice Law, Real Estate Law, Securities Law

Affiliations

• Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2008
• Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada