Frank Walwyn receives Award of Excellence in Civil Litigation; Justin Nasseri named inaugural Civil Litigation Emerging Leader Award honoree.
TORONTO, ON — The Ontario Bar Association (OBA) is proud to announce Frank Walwyn, partner, WeirFoulds LLP, as the 2025 recipient of its Award of Excellence in Civil Litigation and Justin Nasseri, partner, Ross Nasseri LLP, as the inaugural recipient of its new Emerging Leader Award, recognizing promising young professionals who are shaping the future of the field.
For more than 20 years, the prestigious OBA Award of Excellence in Civil Litigation has celebrated extraordinary professionals whose careers exemplify exceptional advocacy, mentorship, leadership in the bar and service to the profession. With the introduction of the Emerging Leader Award, the Association is extending that recognition to the next generation of civil litigators — those with fewer than 15 years of practice who are already making extraordinary impact.
“This year marks an exciting new chapter for our Section,” said Adil Abdulla, Chair of the OBA’s Civil Litigation Section. “Presenting our long-standing Award of Excellence in Civil Litigation alongside the new Civil Litigation Emerging Leader Award allows us to celebrate both the wisdom of experience and the dynamism of emerging voices in civil advocacy.”
Frank Walwyn, who joins fellow litigation luminaries as the latest distinguished recipient of the Award of Excellence, is being recognized for his extensive and unwavering leadership in the civil litigation bar as an advocate, teacher, mentor and influential member of community and professional organizations. His involvement in precedent-setting cases and his numerous accolades as one of Canada’s top litigators are well documented, but as well known as he is for legal acuity, he is equally well respected for his civility, mentorship and generosity.
“The number of times Frank is sought out by younger members of the bar and peers to resolve seemingly unresolvable issues, to provide advice on conflict, and to create consensus out of apparent chaos, are too numerous to mention but go largely unrecognized,” said Arleen Huggins, partner at Koskie Minsky.
Justin Nasseri, recipient of the inaugural Emerging Leader Award, was recognized as one to watch for his talented advocacy, vision and drive to foster a more accessible and equitable justice system. Four years ago, he started a firm that has already been named a number of times as one of the top litigation boutiques in Canada.
“Justin is a brilliant advocate, a principled leader, a generous mentor, and a person of genuine integrity,” said Helen Richards, senior counsel, Bank of Canada, and former partner at Ross Nasseri. “His contributions to civil litigation in Ontario are already considerable, and I have no doubt they will only grow in the years ahead.”
“Recognizing leaders – both those whose contributions span decades and those just beginning to make their mark – reflects our belief in the essential and enduring importance of civil advocacy in an ever-changing world,” said OBA President Katy Commisso. “These awards celebrate outstanding OBA members whose consummate professionalism and litigation excellence strengthen our justice system and our communities.”
Members and guests are invited to celebrate this year’s recipients at the OBA Civil Dinner on January 20, 2026, at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto.
About the Ontario Bar Association
Established in 1907, the OBA is the largest voluntary legal association in Ontario representing over 17,000 lawyers, judges, law professors and law students. A leader in legal innovation, the OBA provides continuing professional development, vital information services, and valuable advocacy for lawyers, protection of the rule of law and justice sector improvements.
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For more information: Emily Sinkins
esinkins@oba.org