Voting is Now Open for Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers
Canadian Lawyer has officially opened voting for its 2025 Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers recognition, marking the 15th edition of this prestigious annual list. The program honors legal professionals who have significantly shaped Canada’s legal landscape through leadership, innovation, and community impact.
Since its inception, the Top 25 list has become a cornerstone of Canada’s legal community, celebrating attorneys who drive change and set benchmarks for excellence. Last year’s edition drew 12,647 votes, showcasing the widespread engagement and respect for this recognition.
A Legacy of Excellence
The selection process for the Top 25 is rigorous and transparent. It begins with nominations, followed by public voting and a final review by Canadian Lawyer’s editorial board. The criteria for selection emphasize leadership, expertise, and influence, with a focus on:
- Expertise, knowledge, and reputation
- Innovation and advocacy for impactful ideas
- Presence and style in professional settings
- Involvement in meaningful causes
- Thought leadership and actionable results
Lorne O’Reilly, a veteran editorial board member, notes that each year’s nominees consistently demonstrate exceptional contributions. Many have influenced national policies, advanced legal education, and championed community initiatives.
A Spotlight on Innovation
Among this year’s nominees is Fraser MacLean, a 34-year-old lawyer nominated in the Changemaker category. MacLean has made waves in the legal field, particularly in addressing the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the justice system.
His landmark case, Zhang v. Chen (2024 BCSC 285), highlighted the misuse of AI in legal filings. MacLean uncovered two fake cases generated by ChatGPT, leading to the first reported Canadian decision on AI-generated “hallucinated” authorities. This case prompted new directives requiring AI-use disclosure in legal filings.
How to Make Your Voice Heard
Voting for the 2025 Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers is now open to the public. Supporters of Fraser MacLean can cast their votes through a dedicated survey link, selecting him under the Changemaker category.
Canadian Lawyer began accepting nominations for this year’s edition on April 1, 2025. The legal community is encouraged to recognize individuals who have made a profound impact through their work and leadership.
The Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers is one of several rankings and special reports published by Canadian Lawyer, all aimed at celebrating excellence across the legal profession.
Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers: A Deep Dive
As the legal community continues to engage with the 2025 edition of Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers, the publication remains committed to recognizing excellence and leadership within the profession. Now in its 15th year, this annual recognition has become a benchmark for identifying legal professionals who are shaping the future of law in Canada.
The Evolution of Influence
Over the years, the Top 25 list has highlighted the diverse ways lawyers contribute to the legal landscape. From advocating for policy changes to pioneering new legal technologies, the nominees consistently demonstrate how innovation and leadership can drive meaningful change. Last year’s edition saw 114 qualified nominees and an impressive 12,647 votes, underscoring the community’s active participation in celebrating their peers’ achievements.
Unpacking the Selection Process
The selection process for the Top 25 is designed to ensure transparency and fairness. Nominations are open to all legal professionals, and the public voting phase allows the broader legal community to have a say in who they believe deserves recognition. The editorial board then reviews the results, ensuring that the final list reflects a diverse range of contributions and achievements.
Spotlight on Emerging Leaders
Fraser MacLean’s nomination in the Changemaker category highlights the growing importance of addressing the intersection of technology and law. His work in exposing the misuse of AI in legal filings has sparked critical conversations about ethical practices in the digital age. MacLean’s efforts have not only led to landmark legal decisions but also prompted regulatory changes, demonstrating the tangible impact one lawyer can have on the justice system.
Why Your Vote Matters
Public participation is a cornerstone of the Top 25 recognition. By casting a vote, legal professionals and supporters can acknowledge the hard work and dedication of their peers. For those looking to support Fraser MacLean or other nominees, the voting process is straightforward: visit the dedicated survey link, navigate to the appropriate category, and submit your choice. Every vote contributes to the final outcome, making this a truly community-driven recognition.
A Broader Impact
The Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers is just one of many initiatives by Canadian Lawyer to celebrate excellence in the legal profession. Through rankings, special reports, and thought leadership pieces, the publication continues to provide a platform for legal professionals to share ideas, collaborate, and inspire one another. As the 2025 edition progresses, the legal community is encouraged to engage fully, ensuring that this year’s list reflects the best of the profession.
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Conclusion:
The Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers recognition is more than just a list; it’s a celebration of innovation, leadership, and the transformative power of legal professionals in Canada. By highlighting trailblazers like Fraser MacLean, the initiative underscores the critical role lawyers play in shaping the future of law and justice. As the legal community continues to engage with this year’s edition, the Top 25 serves as a reminder of the profound impact individuals can have when they combine passion, expertise, and a commitment to ethical practices. Whether through voting, nominating, or sharing stories, every participant contributes to a legacy of excellence that inspires future generations of legal professionals.
FAQ:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers list?
It’s an annual recognition of legal professionals who have made significant contributions to the legal landscape in Canada, highlighting innovation, leadership, and impact.
How are nominees selected for the Top 25 list?
Nominations are open to all legal professionals, followed by a public voting phase. The editorial board then reviews the results to ensure diversity and fairness in the final selection.
What is the Changemaker category?
The Changemaker category recognizes lawyers who drive significant change, often at the intersection of technology and law, as seen with Fraser MacLean’s work on AI misuse in legal filings.
How can I vote for a nominee?
Visit the dedicated survey link on the Canadian Lawyer website, navigate to the appropriate category, and submit your vote. Every vote counts toward the final results.
Why is public participation important?
Public participation ensures the recognition is community-driven, allowing the broader legal community to acknowledge and celebrate their peers’ achievements.
How can I stay updated on the Top 25 recognition?
Visit the Canadian Lawyer website for updates, special reports, and thought leadership pieces that highlight the contributions of this year’s nominees and winners.
