Glenn Zakaib is one of Canada’s most experienced product liability and class action defence lawyers, and one of only a handful across the country to devote their practice to these areas.
He was named one of the top 30 product liability practitioners worldwide by IFLR. Chambers Canada ranks him Band 1 Nationwide for product liability litigation and Band 3 Nationwide for class action defence, stating he is widely recognized as a top lawyer in the market. Lexology Index says he “commands a spectacular reputation,” recognizing him as a Global Elite Thought Leader.
Peers and clients say Glenn “gets the big picture issues,” “takes reasonable positions that will be a success in the long run,” is a “sophisticated professional who is able to break down complex matters into manageable bite sizes” and is willing to “come up with creative solutions.” “I've not seen a better strategist,” says one reviewer. “He's at the top of my list for handling nationwide matters.”
His practical, proactive and sensitive approach to high stakes, high profile matters has made him the go-to advisor for clients as diverse as global auto manufacturers, life sciences companies, governments, aviation businesses and worldwide religious institutions. He has successfully defended claims ranging from misrepresentation and product defects to failure to warn and alleged violations of competition law.
Glenn thinks like both a lawyer and a businessperson, working hard to minimize pressure on inhouse resources and maximize time-saving collaboration and support. For Glenn, success is always defined by the client, whether that’s a well-argued defence before the courts or a well-negotiated low-profile settlement. But even before a claim is filed, he’s looking around corners so his clients are prepared to mitigate risks with confidence.
As national co-chair of BLG’s class actions group, Glenn is dedicated to building the firm’s reputation across the country and mentoring the next generation — bright lights who will ensure BLG remains Canada’s class actions law firm in the decades to come.
A natural connector and collaborator, he uses his wide network of international contacts to ensure clients facing multi-jurisdictional class actions have the best talent in the U.S., UK and Europe. Closer to home, Glenn coordinates BLG’s representation on all domestic class actions so clients get top-notch BLG lawyers who know the courts and judges in the local jurisdiction.