Noted for its ‘speed, expertise and accountability’, Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP’s banking and finance practice is additionally characterized by its transactional firepower. Arguably best known for its record in large-scale borrower-side mandates, the team also handles a significant volume of lender-side matters for major Canadian and global banks. In Toronto, Carol Pennycook is widely regarded as a reference in the market for banking and finance work, particularly project finance; she recently led the team’s advice to Canada Infrastructure bank on its C$235m financing to electric vehicle charging network, FLO. The Toronto team also draws on Joel Scoler, who enjoys close links to major lenders; Derek Vesey, who frequently acts for borrowers and lenders; Scott Hyman, whose practice spans banking, corporate and capital markets law; and next-generation partners Peter Martorelli and Jennifer Prieto. In Montreal, department co-head Dan Wolfensohn is recommended. In September 2023, dual-qualified (New York/Ontario) counsel Hugh McKee joined from GLAS — he will split his time between Canada and the US.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘We have a very strong relationship with the team and it routinely thinks about transactions and identifies issues that are of commercial and operational importance to us. The banking and finance group also works seamlessly with other practices areas (tax, fund formation), which is a great benefit for us.’
‘Derek Vesey and his team work as an extension of our legal department. Derek delegates appropriately and makes an effort to train the associates on our files very well, which we appreciate. We hope to continue to work with Derek for years to come as he has become essential to what we do.’
Key clients
- Ares Capital Corporation
- Avenue Living
Work highlights
- Acted for Canada Infrastructure Bank on a financing of up to C$210m.
- Advised Royal Bank of Canada on the establishment of senior secured ‘green loan’ credit facilities in favour of a subsidiary of the University of Toronto.