Jonathan Dippolito A member of the Firm’s Real Estate Group, Jonathan centers his efforts on an array of real estate ventures, inclusive of acquisitions, refinances, estate matters, dispositions, pre-construction and newly built property matters. Admitted to practice in the province of Ontario and the State of New York, Jonathan first began his practice in creditor’s rights and residential mortgage foreclosure litigation. Shifting his practice to commercial and predominantly residential acquisitions and dispositions, Jonathan addresses the uncertainties, financial implications and legal challenges clients may face from the outset of a transaction, offering practical solutions to a client’s narrowly tailored situation. Impassioned about helping clients secure their targeted outcome while ensuring accessibility to address all uncertainties in what can often feel like a frenetic, yet incredibly exciting process. By KyraAugust 8, 2024August 15, 2024
Leslie Haddock Leslie Haddock returns to DSF as an articling student who recently graduated from the Juris Doctor (J.D.) program at Osgoode Hall Law School. Prior to her articling term, Leslie worked as a research assistant specializing in Aboriginal legal issues and summered at DSF after her second year. During her time at DSF last year, Leslie gained experience in various areas of law, including family law, employment law, wills and estates, estate litigation, and commercial litigation. During her time at Osgoode, Leslie maintained high academic standing and received several awards for academic achievement related to the areas of trusts and estates. Leslie was also active in the school community, volunteering at the Community Legal Aid Clinic (CLASP) as a junior caseworker within the Administrative Law Division; working with Pro Bono Students Canada in the GTA Wills Project, assisting low-income individuals with preparing wills and powers of attorney, and participating in the Walsh Family Law Moot. Prior to law school, Leslie received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Guelph, where she majored in History with a minor in Criminal Justice and Public Policy. In her free time, Leslie enjoys yoga, reading, indoor planting, and indulging in horror films and literature. By AlyssaAugust 6, 2024August 15, 2024
Rachel Weitz Rachel Weitz joined DSF as an articling student after graduating from Osgoode Hall Law School with her Juris Doctor. Prior to attending law school, Rachel received her Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminal Justice and Public Policy from the University of Guelph, where she graduated with distinction and earned a place on the Dean’s List of Honours eight times. At Osgoode, she was actively involved in peer mentorship initiatives both as a mentee and mentor through the Osgoode Disability Collective, Jewish Law Students’ Association, and the Osgoode 1L Mentorship Program. Rachel has a passion for advocacy and has participated in various moot court competitions as an oralist, and as an organizer and judge. She is bilingual, being fluent in both English and French. Rachel has a diverse employment background, having worked in the financial sector, as a research assistant to multiple law professors, and as an LSAT tutor. She is a sports lover and cheers for her beloved hometown teams, the Leafs, Jays, and Raptors. She is also an avid golfer, reader, and baker. By AlyssaAugust 6, 2024August 14, 2024
Sanaz Sakhapour Sanaz Sakhapour is pleased to return to Devry Smith Frank LLP as an articling student after completing her Juris Doctor degree at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section (“uOttawa”) with distinction. In her final year of law school, Sanaz studied at Osgoode Hall Law School (“Osgoode”) on a Letter of Permission in order to diversify her legal education and learn from legal experts in her home town of Toronto. Prior to law school, she earned a Bilingual Honours Bachelor of Science degree from York University, Glendon College, where she studied psychology. During law school, Sanaz’s health and science background contributed to her continued interest in gaining an in-depth knowledge of law and its intersection with the field of health, which earned her a specialization in health law. She had the privilege of learning from esteemed professors in specialized areas of health law, including immigration health law, food law, patent law and disability and technology law at both uOttawa and Osgoode. Outside of health law, Sanaz enjoyed challenging herself by enrolling in new subject areas such as public international law, construction law, competition law and trademark law in order to bring a breadth of knowledge into her career as a future legal practitioner. Sanaz has also gained valuable legal experience as an Assistant Editor for the Ottawa Law Review, where she verified materials that were referenced by authors in a bilingual and peer-reviewed academic journal. She was also a Research Assistant at uOttawa, where she researched and summarized legal materials with respect to the status quo of entitlement and access to reproductive health care for migrant women around the world. Sanaz has also demonstrated a commitment to the legal community through her involvement in the Allies in Law Mentorship Program at the uOttawa, where she mentored first-year law students. By AlyssaAugust 6, 2024August 7, 2024
Paria Rad Paria is a partner and real estate lawyer at Woitzik Polsinelli LLP. Paria has extensive experience in all aspects of the real estate transaction, she is experienced in dealing with complex legal issues and she has closed numerous real estate transactions. Paria holds a Juris Doctor in law with second class honours and was called to the Bar in Ontario in 2013. Prior to joining Woitzik Polsinelli, Paria practiced real estate law at a boutique and well respected law firm in Toronto. Thereafter, she returned to her home town to continue her passion for real estate law at a law firm in Pickering. Paria often speaks and hosts webinars to discuss emerging real-estate law issues and enjoys mentoring other lawyers. Paria has an “open door” policy and is pleased to assist with any real-estate law inquiries. With a strong network of family and friends in Durham and York Regions, Paria enjoys supporting her community and is a firm believer in positive thinking. By KyraJuly 29, 2024August 14, 2024
Yonatan Kramer Yonatan Kramer joined Devry Smith Frank LLP (‘DSF’) in 2024 as an associate lawyer in our commercial litigation department. He received his B.A. from York University before earning his J.D. from the University of Windsor in 2018. He was called to the Bar in 2019. Yonatan is a skilled litigator with experience appearing before the Divisional Court, Superior Court, Small Claims Court, Landlord and Tenant Board, and the License Appeal Tribunal. Before joining DSF, Yonatan worked for a boutique litigation firm in Toronto where he represented clients in civil and commercial matters, including contractual disputes, shareholder disputes, real estate and construction-related litigation, insurance claims, employment disputes, debt recovery, and professional negligence. Yonatan’s legal expertise and commitment to transparent communication fosters strong attorney-client relationships and empowers clients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. By AlyssaJanuary 8, 2024September 6, 2024
Benjamin Grubner Benjamin Grubner joined the immigration group of Devry Smith Frank LLP (DSF) in 2023. He obtained his J.D. from Osgoode Hall Law School in 2007. Benjamin was called to the Ontario Bar in 2008 and the New York State Bar in 2022.With a seamless ability to navigate the intricacies of immigration law on both sides of the border, Benjamin’s dual jurisdiction insight allows him to offer clients holistic solutions that consider the legal processes of both locations.Benjamin specializes in Canadian and U.S. immigration matters with a focus on family reunification, family class sponsorships, permanent residence, and citizenship. His passion for helping individuals and families navigate the complex landscape of immigration law paired with his years of knowledge and practical experience allow him to provide comprehensive solutions to his clients that look after their best interests.In his spare time, he volunteers for a local Emergency Medical Services group working as an EMT and first responder as a way to support his community. By AlyssaSeptember 5, 2023August 20, 2024
Toni Pascale Toni Pascale is a family lawyer with Devry Smith Frank LLP (“DSF”), having previously been an articling student with the firm. She earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Common Law and holds an Honour’s Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from Queen’s University. Toni was called to the bar in 2024. Toni’s dedication to family law began during law school, where she gained valuable experience at a boutique family law firm in British Columbia. This experience, along with her role as a student caseworker with Pro Bono Students Canada’s Family Justice Centre, allowed her to develop a deep understanding and passion for family law. At the Family Justice Centre, she provided essential legal services to Ontario residents unable to afford a lawyer, which developed her skills in client advocacy and support. During her academic career, Toni demonstrated her commitment to legal excellence and social justice. She won the Walker Health Law Moot, showcasing her strong litigation skills. Her involvement with the National Association of Women and the Law and the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund emphasizes her dedication to community service and legal reform. In her practice, Toni is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support to families navigating difficult family matters. She is dedicated to achieving favorable outcomes for her clients while prioritizing their well-being. Outside of her legal practice, Toni enjoys spending time with her cat, travelling, and attending spin classes. By KyraAugust 3, 2023August 20, 2024
Michael Farace Michael Farace is a seasoned lawyer with years of experience, bringing his expertise to Devry Smith Frank LLP (‘DSF’) as a partner in the commercial litigation department. Having been called to the Bar in 1989, he possesses extensive knowledge and a wealth of practical experience in the field. Before joining DSF, Michael worked at a renowned national law firm in Toronto, where he specialized in commercial litigation, construction law and Occupational Health and Safety law. Throughout his lengthy career, he has successfully represented clients in a variety of legal settings, including arbitrations, the License Appeal Tribunal, Small Claims Court, Ontario Court of Justice, Superior Court of Ontario, and Court of Appeal for Ontario. At DSF, Michael’s practice spans a wide range of complex litigation matters. He adopts a strategic approach to litigation that is tailored to each client’s needs, whether they are commercial entities or individuals. By prioritizing effective communication, he ensures that his clients are well-informed throughout the process. Additionally, he excels in providing clarity by meticulously explaining calculations line by line and outlining the underlying assumptions. Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael actively contributes to his community. He served as a valued member of the coaching staff for numerous minor hockey teams in both the Streetsville Amateur Minor Hockey Association and the Meadowvale Minor Hockey Association. Furthermore, he shared his legal expertise as a Business Law instructor at Sheridan College. These additional roles showcase Michael’s commitment to both his profession and making a positive impact outside the office. By KyraJuly 26, 2023August 14, 2024
Nick Lavkulik Nick is a mediator at Devry Smith & Frank LLP who primarily works in personal injury, insurance, and general civil litigation. Over the last six years, Nick has worked on both the interpersonal and transactional sides of legal services. He mediated cases from the Small Claims Court system through St. Stephen’s Community House while completing his year-long ADR Graduate Certificate at Humber College. Also, he served unicorns to Fortune 500 companies at a leading American law firm while completing his JD MBA at the University of San Francisco. Lastly, Nick earned a mediation intensive certificate from Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation.This unique perspective rooted in tradition allows Nick to see the forest through the trees and keep mediations on track to get the job done – good deal, case settled, and file closed. Taking a straight forward approach, he works with parties to get perspectives across the table in a way that is persuasive, credible, and collaborative. And for a limited time on select prescribed roster dates, you get a seasoned Ontario-leading mediator, his father David Lavkulik, as a co-mediator – free of charge. Outside of his professional career in law, Nick is an internationally awarded guitarist who has studied with some of the top jazz musicians in the world – including GRAMMY nominees, JUNO recipients, and unsung innovators. During his Music Performance degree at the University of Toronto, Nick gained a rigorous creative discipline which informs his legal and business practice as a mediator to bring a personal and efficient approach to resolving cases. Prescribed Roster RatesHalf Day Two-Party Mediation: $600Scheduled for three hours for 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM or 1:30 PM – 4:30 PMFull Day Two-Party Mediation: $1,200 Scheduled for six hours for 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMAdditional ChargesEach Additional Party $75Each Additional Hour $250Cancellation FeesThere are no cancellation fees unless less than 24 hours notice of the scheduled mediation is provided.ModalityMediations are conducted virtually via Zoom unless requested otherwise.In-person mediation fees remains the same when mediations are conducted at Devry Smith Frank’s Toronto offices (Lawrence and DVP). In-person mediation fees otherwise are subject to an increase accommodating room rental fees and travel outside the GTA.For any other requests or accommodations please contact me at nick.lavkulik@devrylaw.ca By Fauzan SiddiquiJuly 7, 2023August 7, 2024