A destination practice for media and entertainment work, Dentons is equipped to advise on the full life cycle of industry matters, from production and distribution issues, through to IP, corporate transactions and regulatory work. In Toronto, Ken Dhaliwal is highly regarded for his experience in representing major Canadian and international independent producers, broadcasters, studios and streaming platforms, among other industry participants, on corporate, finance, IP and tax law. In Vancouver, Juliet Smith supports a range of financial institutions, TV networks, Hollywood Studios and independent production companies on media and entertainment mandates. Other key contacts include senior specialists Jim Russell and David Steinberg; next-generation partner Jayme Alter; and up-and-coming counsel Bob Tarantino — all of whom operate from Toronto.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • Lions Gate Entertainment
  • New Metric Media
  • Sinking Ship Entertainment
  • Spin Master
  • Piazza Entertainment
  • Staples Canada
  • Elevation Pictures
  • Neshama Entertainment
  • Fully and Complete Productions

Work highlights

  • Advised Lions Gate Entertainment on its $375m acquisition of Entertainment One from Hasbro.
  • Advised New Metric Media on Bell Media’s commitment to 49 episodes of content from New Metric and Jared Keeso.
  • Advised Elevation Pictures on navigating issues regarding SAG performers’ obligations and permitted services during the Toronto Film Festival.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Ken Dhaliwal, Juliet Smith, Jim Russell

Other key lawyers

David Steinberg, Jayme Alter, Bob Tarantino, Karin Kazakevich