In 1973, three young lawyers established Heenan Blaikie. It would become one of Canada’s highest-profile law firms, counting former prime ministers, premiers, and Supreme Court justices in its ranks. It was like a family, according to many who worked there. But it was a dysfunctional family. In 2014, the firm’s dramatic collapse became front-page news.

Based on extensive interviews with firm lawyers and legal industry insiders, Heenan Blaikie is the story of a respected law firm that ultimately buckled under weak governance and management. Heenan Blaikie seemed to punch above its weight: bilingual, humane, national with international aspirations. But beneath its unique culture as a kinder, gentler law firm lay workplace bullying, challenges for women and visible minority lawyers, and sexual harassment.

Adam Dodek, an unbiased outsider, situates the firm’s evolution within the context of a changing legal profession and society, producing an account that is gripping from beginning to end.

Adam Dodek, B.A. (McGill) J.D. (Harvard), L.L.M. (Toronto) is Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, University of Ottawa where he teaches Public Law and Legislation, Torts and Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility. He is a member of the bars of Ontario and California. Professor Dodek's areas of research include public law, the legal profession, the judiciary and legal ethics.

Adam Dodek's profile page

"[Dodek] offers one of the most illuminating and wide-ranging looks at how large law firms in Canada operate."

Canadian Bar Association – The National Magazine

"You can read this book several ways, including as governance guide, gossip and tragedy... the lessons... are considered and compelling."

The Advocate

"It’s a great story. Dodek lavishes time and attention on all the ethical lapses and failures, all the nasty headlines that decorated its fall."

Christopher Moore’s History News

"Dodek chronicles the remarkable story of the firm"

Canadian Lawyer