On September 25, close to 150 partygoers arrived at Chefs Hall in Toronto to celebrate the launch of Lewis Litigation. The firm’s founder, Atrisha Lewis—a former partner at McCarthy Tétrault LLP and a current bencher at the Law Society of Ontario—invited a bevy of friends, colleagues and clients from throughout the legal community.
At its core, the five-person operation has a straightforward objective. “We are building a Bay Street law firm that consistently delivers excellence, while being centered on equity, diversity and inclusion,” Lewis told Precedent. “We want to show the legal profession that excellence comes from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. We want to use our litigation superpowers to serve a broad range of clients, from large corporations to individuals, while remaining closely connected to the communities we serve.”
The evening featured a pair of thoughtful toasts, in which leading members of the bar spoke about Lewis with warmth and affection. First to the microphone was Terrie-Lynne Devonish, chief legal officer and corporate secretary at Altus Group, whom Lewis introduced as “a longtime friend and mentor.”
Devonish told the audience that, while mingling with the crowd, she’d asked those in attendance to answer a simple question: When you think of Atrisha Lewis, what comes to mind? The responses were varied. “The first was power,” said Devonish. “The person who said this—it almost took their breath away. They had to take a step back when they thought about it. The other comments: She’s lovely and inspiring. She has amazing energy and is consistently going forward. Generosity of spirit. Generous values. She has a solid reputation. Here’s one I love: When I think about her, I think, That’s who I want to be.”
Michael Tulloch, the chief justice of Ontario, then addressed the room. He recalled meeting Lewis, some years ago, for the first time. “I can tell you that I was impressed right from the outset with her brilliance, her character, her dedication to the law and her passion for advocacy,” he said. “I thought to myself, You’re going to go far.”
He went on to acknowledge the party’s impressive turnout. “It’s great to see all your friends and community here to support you,” he said. “This is critically important for all of us because none of us is an island. While the practice of law, at times, is very isolating, it’s good to know that you have kindred spirits who are supporters.” In conclusion, he said, “There’s no doubt that you’re going to be amazing.”
Photography by Paige Thompson.