Frank B. Portman

Unique Skills and Attributes

Throughout his career, Frank has been involved in unique and precedent-setting litigation, earning a reputation for his creative legal solutions. He has been instrumental in handling significant cases and reported decisions that have shaped the legal landscape in Canadian employment law. Notably, Frank played a key role as co-counsel in the high-profile decision in Waksdale v. Swegon North America Inc. (2019).

Frank’s unwavering dedication to his clients’ interests has been recognized by colleagues and clients alike.

A passion for justice and a reputation for being an experienced and forceful employment lawyer are qualities that set Frank apart from other Toronto employment lawyers. Driven by a commitment to providing exceptional legal representation, Frank’s strong advocacy skills and strategic approach contribute to his success in representing clients and achieving favourable outcomes. He has excellent people skills, his Spidey Sense is on, and he is always thinking 3 steps ahead.

Before becoming a partner at Massey LLP, Frank was an associate lawyer at a Toronto boutique litigation law firm, where he honed his skills in a diverse range of civil litigation cases, with a particular focus on employment law. Handling everything from wrongful dismissal to workplace discrimination cases, Frank developed a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances within the employment law landscape.

Significant cases handled or reported decisions include:

• Phillips v. Tawadrous, 2022: Counsel for the respondent
• Henderson v. Slavkin et al. (2022): Counsel for the defendants
• Khomami v. Lenet (2022): Counsel for the respondent
• Law Society of Ontario v. Cadogan (2022): Counsel for the respondent
• Parekh et al v. Schecter et al (2022): Counsel for the plaintiffs
• Law Society of Ontario v. Cadogan (2021): Counsel for the respondent
• Livshin v. The Clinic Network Canada Inc. (2021): Counsel for the plaintiff

Frank initially cut his teeth in employment law at a Toronto labour, employment, and human resources law firm as an associate lawyer. During his tenure, he dedicated himself to advising and representing employers in matters of employment and labour law. Frank’s strategic counsel and representation helped businesses navigate through challenging employment disputes and achieve favourable outcomes.

Significant cases handled or reported decisions include:

• Waksdale v. Swegon North America Inc. (2019): One of the most noteworthy employment law cases of the last five years. Frank was co-counsel on the summary judgment motion, which was successful, but not involved in the appeal, which was lost.
• R. v. Greater Sudbury (City) (2019): Overturned on appeal, under review at the Supreme Court of Canada.
• 2020268 Ontario Limited o/a Prescott Masonry & Restoration Inc. v. Bricklayers (2018): Counsel for the intervenor
• Powerline Plus Ltd. v. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (2018): Counsel for the intervenor
• Labourers’ International Union of North America, Local 183 v. Normac Kitchens Limited (2015): Counsel for the responding party

Professional Associations

In addition to his busy legal practice, Frank is an active member of professional associations including the Ontario Bar Association (OBA), the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), and the Advocates Society.

Frank takes pride in staying on top of the latest legal developments in his practice areas of focus through his participation in seminars and continuing legal education programs.

Education

Frank was admitted to the Bar of Ontario in 2013.

Frank earned a Juris Doctor (JD) in 2012 from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University. During his legal studies, Frank had the opportunity to expand his perspective on the law through an exchange semester at the University of Arizona, Tucson in 2011.
Frank obtained a Bachelor of Arts (History) in 2008 from Acadia University where he developed critical thinking skills that continue to serve him well in his legal practice.

Personal Stuff

Beyond his legal practice, Frank has personal interests that include cooking, enjoying classic movies, and exploring the art of mixology through crafting cocktails. He also has a passion for sports, particularly hockey, football, and soccer. Additionally, as a travel enthusiast, Frank seeks opportunities to explore different cuisines and cultures around the world.

With his impressive track record, commitment to excellence, and wide-ranging experience, Frank B. Portman is a trusted and respected employment lawyer and employment law litigator in the Canadian legal community. His contributions to the field of law and his unwavering dedication to his clients make him an invaluable member of the Massey LLP team.