Jacob Gofman
Jacob Gofman is a go-to M&A and capital markets lawyer who advises on some of the most complex, high-profile transactions in Canada and beyond. Drawing on his experience practising in New York, he regularly guides U.S. private equity sponsors and strategic investors through cross-border transactions. His commercial insight, creative problem-solving and collaborative approach have earned the trust and long-term partnership of clients across industries.
Beyond his practice, Jacob champions the development of future lawyers, leading the recruitment and mentorship of summer and articling students as Co-Chair of the Firm’s Toronto Student Committee. He is also an active contributor to pro bono initiatives, including work with The Hudson Sullivan Memorial Association, Students Offering Support and Pro Bono Ontario.
Brady Gordon
Brady Gordon is a prominent litigator and international trade lawyer whose practice spans complex cross-border disputes, trade remedies, import and export matters, and sanctions. He has achieved exceptional outcomes for clients on high-value, nationally significant cases in these areas of law. Brady has also played an instrumental role in expanding the Firm’s International Trade practice and strengthening collaboration across offices on major international matters.
As an executive member of the Canadian Bar Association International Law Section, Brady has helped lead important legal and policy initiatives. He also actively supports the next generation of lawyers, including by teaching at the University of British Columbia’s Allard School of Law and coaching international arbitration moot teams. His commitment to community service includes his pro bono contributions to the Veterans Transition Network’s efforts to help evacuate more than 2,500 refugees from Afghanistan in 2021.
Emily Hazlett
Emily Hazlett is an exceptional litigator recognized for her judgment and skill in defending complex class actions and on commercial litigation matters. Representing major clients across industries, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, telecommunications and financial services, she has established a reputation for delivering practical, strategic advice on high-stakes matters. Those mandates include product liability, negligence, contract and consumer-protection class actions, often with a cross-border or multi-jurisdictional focus. Fully bilingual, Emily is a member of the Ontario and Quebec bars and practices in both jurisdictions.
Emily is equally dedicated to mentorship and expanding access to education and justice. She supports the next generation of lawyers with hands-on guidance and contributes to community initiatives, including through her pro bono work and as a board member for the Kuwala Christian Girls School in Malawi.
Céline Poitras
Céline Poitras is a standout technology lawyer whose expertise spans telecommunications, broadcasting, satellite, space and digital media and data. Her highly specialized practice places her at the forefront of significant regulatory and technological developments. She also helps clients navigate complex commercial matters across the technology, biotech and life sciences sectors. Bringing strategic foresight and a deep understanding of clients’ business objectives, she delivers proactive, tailored advice on novel and multifaceted matters at the intersection of law, public policy and technology.
Céline has worked on many industry-shaping government consultations with leading clients in the communications sector, including major foreign streaming services. She gives back to her community through pro bono legal advice at Blakes and is strongly committed to developing the next generation of technology lawyers through mentorship and specialized training.
About the Lexpert Rising Stars Awards
The annual Lexpert Rising Stars awards recognize lawyers from law firms and in-house counsel aged 40 and under who are up-and-coming in the Canadian legal community. Lexpert selects the finalists based on several criteria, and an advisory board votes on the winning candidates.
About Blakes
At Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes), we serve a diverse national and international client base. Our integrated network of offices provides clients with access to the Firm’s full spectrum of capabilities in virtually every area of business law.
Thanks to our clients, Blakes continues to earn top rankings and accolades. The Firm consistently stands out as a market leader in the Chambers Canada Legal Guide, with 61 practice areas recognized in the 2027 edition. In addition, our lawyers continue to be recognized as leaders in their fields in The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory, Canada’s leading guide to lawyers.
More information on Blakes is available on our website or by following us on LinkedIn.
