Sean C. Rimoin Sean joined Devry Smith Frank LLP in 2014. He is currently the head of the firm’s commercial lending group and regularly acts for and advises Canadian chartered banks, non-bank financial institutions and borrowers in connection with secured and unsecured lending transactions. Sean specializes in all areas of commercial lending, including but not limited to, single-lender financing transactions, acquisition financings, syndicated loans and real estate and construction financing transactions. Sean takes pride in building meaningful relationships with his clients and, as a result, has built a vast network with finance, legal and industry experts. Further, he often connects people to facilitate or create opportunities for his clients and bring value to them in non-legal ways. When not working, Sean enjoys a variety of sporting activities as well as spending time with family and friends. By kyraJuly 11, 2023July 12, 2023
James M. Satin James is the co-managing partner at Devry Smith Frank LLP and also heads our creditors rights group which includes debt recovery and bankruptcy and insolvency. Effective, efficient, results-oriented, cost-conscious and professional are adjectives used by James’ clients to describe him. Among his clients, James acts as counsel for Canadian chartered banks and other financial institutions on hundreds of recovery matters. James has expertise in the most effective, and cost-efficient methods for recovering debts, both prior to and following judgment. James works with trustees, receivers, property managers and other professionals to secure the timely realization of secured assets, and to maximize recovery on collection matters. James has had considerable success in resolving collection proceedings on an expedited basis, thereby reducing the expense to his clients and speeding up the recovery process. James also has expertise in commercial litigation. He has acted for clients in matters including contract disputes, real estate litigation, product liability, employment litigation and wrongful dismissal, estate litigation, defamation and fraud actions. He has acted for clients ranging from multinational corporations and global professional services organizations to small and medium-sized businesses, as well as for individuals. He has experience with all facets of the litigation process, including interim and permanent injunctions including Mareva injunctions and other motions for the preservation of property, interlocutory motions, Court ordered and private receiverships, motions for summary judgment, examinations in aid of execution, seizure and sale of assets, Sheriff’s sales of both real and personal property, contempt proceedings and mandatory and private mediations. James’ practical, no-nonsense approach to litigation has resulted in excellent results at trial and on appeal. He frequently appears before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and has appeared before the Ontario Court of Appeal and the Ontario Divisional Court. James has spoken at numerous seminars on topics relating to debt collection. James is a graduate of McGill University (B.A. in Psychology, 1996) and the University of Western Ontario (LL.B, 1999). He holds a Certificate in Mediation from the Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre at the University of Western Ontario. James was called to the Bar in 2001. For further information or assistance with debt recovery and bankruptcy, insolvency or commercial litigation please contact James M. Satin. By kyraJuly 11, 2023July 12, 2023
Larry W. Keown Larry has practised with Devry Smith Frank LLP since 1997 as a litigator in the areas of commercial litigation, real estate law and employment law including: commercial landlord and tenant litigation, leasing disputes, real estate and mortgage litigation, banking recovery litigation, title insurance litigation, bankruptcy, receivership and insolvency, wrongful dismissal and employment law, oppression remedy and shareholder disputes, franchise disputes, construction lien litigation, injunctions, estate litigation, partnership litigation, commercial contract disputes and collections. Larry completed his honour arts degree in Psychology and Sociology at Brandon University in Manitoba and his law degree at Osgoode Hall Law School. After articling at the firm in 1995/1996, Larry was called to the Bar in 1997 and admitted as a partner in the firm in 2003. For more than a decade, Larry has been the Managing Partner of the firm. Larry’s clients include a broad range of individuals, corporations and institutions including: major banks, lenders, title insurers, trustees in bankruptcy, receivers, shareholders, employers, employees, commercial landlords, commercial tenants, property managers, insurers and others. He has significant courtroom experience, having appeared before the Small Claims Court of Ontario, the Superior Court of Justice, the Federal Court of Canada, the Divisional Court in Ontario and the Ontario Court of Appeal on numerous motions, applications, trials and appeals. Larry has also appeared before many tribunals including: the Financial Services Commission, the Work Place Safety and Insurance Tribunal and the Ontario Labour Relations Board. He also has participated in many alternative dispute forums including: arbitrations and mediations. To see what some of Larry’s clients have said about him please visit our Client Testimonials page. Our law firm is conveniently located at Lawrence and Don Mills and we offer free parking. For further information or assistance with a legal matter please contact Toronto lawyer and litigator Larry Keown. By kyraJuly 11, 2023July 12, 2023
Jaimin Panesar Jaimin Panesar joined Devry Smith Frank LLP (‘DSF’) and Woitzik Polsinelli LLP (‘WP’) as a summer law student in 2022 and is thrilled to continue working for the firm as an articling student for the 2023-2024 licensing year. He recently graduated cum laude from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law in spring of 2023 with a Juris Doctor (J.D.). Throughout law school, Jaimin volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada and worked with Reach Canada to assist people with disabilities in finding legal professionals. He also completed an internship with a boutique Family Law firm during his time in Ottawa. Prior to law school, Jaimin completed his Bachelor of Commerce Degree, specializing in marketing, at Toronto Metropolitan University. As a native of the Durham Region, Jaimin is delighted to be working with the team at Devry Smith Frank LLP (‘DSF’) and Woitzik Polsinelli LLP (‘WP’) in Whitby. Jaimin has been integrated into the real estate team at Woitzik Polsinelli, aiding in the closing of residential transactions. He has experience in the assistance of reviewing Agreements of Purchase and Sale, reviewing New Condominium Build Agreements, reviewing Status Certificates, drafting extension terms and dealing with post-closing issues. Jaimin looks forward to gaining more experience in real estate law, in addition to all other areas during his articling placement. In his free time, he enjoys playing sports, refereeing hockey and spending time with his family and friends. Jaimin is an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Manchester United. By Fauzan SiddiquiMay 2, 2022August 15, 2023
Kelli Preston Kelli graduated from Osgoode Hall with an L.L.B. in 2002. She joined Devry Smith Frank LLP (DSF) in 2013, after being a partner in downtown Toronto law firm.Kelli’s practice is focused on professional negligence claims, real estate and mortgage litigation cases, recovery, bankruptcy, securities litigation and general corporate/commercial litigation. Working on cases at all levels of court in Canada, Kelli has co-counselled several significant cases at the trial and appellate level and has assisted with a multimillion-dollar arbitration. Kelli also is experienced in mortgage recovery, debtor-creditor, land severance applications and personal injury matters.Prior to her call to the bar in January 2003, Kelli was a law clerk for 13 years. In this capacity, she gained significant experience working with prominent senior lawyers in the commercial litigation field, with a special emphasis on solicitor negligence claims. Kelli credits this background to her pragmatic approach to her files.When not litigating Kelli can be found at hockey rinks and soccer fields across Ontario cheering on her two boys, or shopping with her daughter. In her spare time, Kelli enjoys travelling with her family, cooking, waterskiing, kickboxing, skiing and practicing yoga. By G63tEGnX1EFebruary 19, 2021December 7, 2021
Mark Woitzik Born and raised in Whitby, Ontario, Mark attended McMaster University in 1991. Five days into his first year of study, Mark was severely injured in a frosh week accident that left him a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the chest down. After a year of physical rehabilitation, and with the tremendous support of his family, Mark returned to York University to study Economics, graduating with honours. Mark then attended Osgoode Hall, Canada’s oldest and most recognized law school.After being called to the Bar in 2000, Mark started his practice in his hometown of Whitby. Mark has been a commentator about accessibility issues for newspapers, done numerous public presentations for buyers, sellers, realtors and mortgage brokers, and has appeared live on CTV News as an expert commentator for interest rates and real estate related matters.Mark and his wife Amanda are actively involved in the community, supporting many local sports teams and countless charitable causes throughout the year. Annually, on behalf of Durham Region realtors and clients, Mark’s office supports St. Vincent’s kitchen to ensure those in need can enjoy free Christmas meals throughout December. Amanda and Mark are proud supporters of the military and have donated over 600 tickets to Canadian soldiers and their families for Blue Jays game to date. By G63tEGnX1EJanuary 21, 2021January 19, 2022
Stephen Sforza Stephen joined Woitzik Polsinelli LLP in 2019 and is now a part of Devry Smith Frank LLP post the merger of the firms in Whitby. He is a partner in our Corporate/Commercial and Real Estate Groups. He holds a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and an undergraduate degree with honours from Queen’s University, graduating magna cum laude. Prior to joining the firm, Stephen worked as an associate at another well-established firm in Durham Region, where he assisted clients with a variety of business, real estate, and wills & estates law matters. He also gained valuable experience working in downtown Toronto in the securities regulation industry and in the legal department of a public oil & gas company. Stephen’s practice is focused on providing practical, strategic, and tailored legal advice to a diverse range of clients, including entrepreneurs, real estate investors, professionals, small to medium-sized businesses, commercial lenders and borrowers, credit unions, and commercial landlords and tenants. His expertise includes business formation, corporate reorganizations, purchasing and selling businesses, secured lending, commercial financing, tax rollovers, commercial leasing, and general contract review and drafting. Stephen also has extensive experience in real estate law and is a key member of the firm’s Real Estate Group. He assists clients with a wide range of residential and commercial real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, assignments, and mortgage transactions. His attention to detail, thoroughness, and commitment to excellence ensure that his clients’ real estate transactions are completed smoothly and successfully. Stephen has a client-focused approach and strives to always provide the most cost-effective legal solutions. He takes the time to understand his clients’ unique needs and works closely with them to achieve their desired outcomes. His professionalism, expertise, and dedication have earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor in his field. When outside of the office, Stephen is an avid Toronto sports fan and enjoys playing competitive soccer. He is committed to personal fitness and maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Feel free to contact Stephen at stephen@durhamlawyer.ca TESTIMONIALS “I have been using Woitzik Polsinelli for many years. Their service and professionalism is next to none. A special thank you to Stephen Sforza for all of his outstanding work and assistance over the years!” – Domenic.C “Stephen helped us out with the sale of our business, as well as the purchase/sale of our homes – His team were very knowledgeable and quick to answer any questions that came up – we would 100% recommend them to anyone!” – Jessica. L “I have used this firm for several real estate transactions, wills and now to sell my business. Stephen was great to deal with. He responded to my concerns in a quick, supportive and professional way. the advice was good and rates fair. I strongly recommend the use of this firm for all professional needs.” Johnny. N “I have had an exceptional experience with Stephen and Lesley . I cannot thank Stephen enough for his due diligence in making my new venture of entrepreneurship a positive transaction. I would not hesitate to use this firm once again as I have been a customer for over 15 years! Thank you Stephen and your wonderful team.” – Barb Hardy “Just completed a business transaction using Stephen Sforza as my lawyer from this firm. Would highly recommend him along with their staff. Very professional and most of all very thorough with all the work they provided Their service was efficient and exactly what I needed to conduct this transaction” – Ken Noakes By G63tEGnX1EJanuary 21, 2021January 18, 2024
Vanessa Romanino Vanessa joined Woitzik Polsinelli in 2016. Prior to joining the team, Vanessa practiced in the area of electronic discovery as a contract lawyer for many large Firms in Downtown Toronto. Vanessa maintains these skills in consistently advocating for our clients and their needs. As a partner in our Wills and Estates Group, Vanessa primarily focuses on all aspects of estate planning and administration. Vanessa’s professional knowledge, sensible approach, and ability to understand difficult and emotional situations, enable her to assist our clients in all aspects of their estate matters and provide the best possible legal representation. These matters include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and estate applications to the Court. Vanessa additionally practices and assists in our Residential Real Estate and Corporate Law Groups. As an English major, Vanessa has shown a keen interest in contract review and drafting. In her spare time, Vanessa enjoys being outdoors, travelling, trying new restaurants, and sports. Growing up, Vanessa was a competitive swimmer for The City of Markham and continues to stay actively involved in the Community, and is happy to have found a firm whose values align with her own. Feel free to contact Vanessa at vanessa@durhamlawyer.ca By G63tEGnX1EJanuary 21, 2021January 3, 2024
Paria Rad Paria is a partner and real estate lawyer at Woitzik Polsinelli LLP. Paria has extensive experience in all aspects of the real estate transaction, she is experienced in dealing with complex legal issues and she has closed numerous real estate transactions.Paria holds a Juris Doctor in law with second class honours and was called to the Bar in Ontario in 2013.Prior to joining Woitzik Polsinelli, Paria practiced real estate law at a boutique and well respected law firm in Toronto. Thereafter, she returned to her home town to continue her passion for real estate law at a law firm in Pickering. Paria often speaks and hosts webinars to discuss emerging real-estate law issues and enjoys mentoring other lawyers. Paria has an “open door” policy and is pleased to assist with any real-estate law inquiries.With a strong network of family and friends in Durham and York Regions, Paria enjoys supporting her community and is a firm believer in positive thinking.Feel free to contact Paria at paria@durhamlawyer.caTestimonials“I have nothing but positive things to say about Woitzik Polsinelli. They were so good and helpful in getting my elderly parents house sold. They answered all our questions and made sure we clearly understood every part of the deal. Paria Rad was professional, informative and very caring. I will use these lawyers again.” – Craig.Z “Paria and her team went above and beyond for me. I had a very complicated and stressful situation with the closing of my house and Paria was very easy to get a hold of. She was always ready to answer my questions and was always honest and prompt with her responses. I was referred to her office after I was unable to reach my previous real estate lawyer for over two months. I felt the effort and work she put in for me and I can now say I am happily living in my dream home. I highly recommend Paria and her team!” – Kateryna.F By G63tEGnX1EJanuary 21, 2021January 30, 2024
Jason Lane Jason Lane joined Woitzik Polsinelli LLP, Lawyers and Mediators in 2018 as a summer law student. Jason obtained his Juris Doctor from The University of Western Ontario in 2019 and is now an associate in our Family and Real Estate Groups. During his time at WP, Jason has gained extensive knowledge regarding a variety of real property matters such as the purchase and sale of new homes, condominiums, re-sales, and assignments. Jason is very understanding of the fact that completing a real estate transaction can seem overwhelming and complicated, but his attention to detail and focus on client communication will ensure that the closing process is made simple and straightforward. As an associate of our Family Law Group, Jason places great emphasis upon finding client-focused, sustainable resolutions to family law matters and he works towards preserving relationships to the greatest extent possible. Jason has aided many clients by providing advice on and drafting marriage contracts (pre-nuptial), separation agreements and cohabitation agreements. Outside of the office, Jason thoroughly enjoys playing and watching a variety of sports including golf, basketball, squash and hockey. Jason is an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Raptors. Feel free to contact Jason at jason@durhamlawyer.ca TESTIMONIALS “Our experience of buying our first home was seamless with the law firm of Woitzik Polisinelli LLP. The team, from our file being opened to closing day, were great! They held appointments virtually to ensure safety for all parties. We were always updated in a timely manner and spoken to with great professionalism and care, especially Cheryle, Jason L., and Jennifer C. Thank you for helping us start our new adventure! We will not hesitate to recommend you to others!” – Sarah.R “I had a great experience working with Woitzik Polsinelli LLP for a recent home purchase. As a first-time homebuyer, they made the entire experience informative, comfortable, and stress-free. With a closing of only two weeks, the team went above and beyond to ensure I was able to close on time. The entire process was quick and seamless. The team at Woitzik Polsinelli LLP has also provided excellent follow-up. They have answered all of my questions related to my home, and they’ve continued to be my go-to for any legal matters. I’d like to give a special thanks to Jason, Charlene, Marco, and Cheryle for their wonderful customer support. They have my highest recommendation.” – Nate By G63tEGnX1EJanuary 21, 2021January 16, 2024