Trusted advisors. Genuine partners.
We work closely with our clients to deliver smart, efficient solutions rooted in trust, care, and deep industry experience.
Putting people at the heart of our practice
A firm built on relationships
For more than a century, we’ve built our practice around people – our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. We believe the best results come from understanding what matters most to the people we serve. That’s why we listen closely, communicate openly, and work collaboratively to earn trust and deliver peace of mind. Our clients are never just file numbers; they are valued partners whose goals, challenges, and success truly matter to us.
Smart, responsive, and team-driven
Our lawyers bring thoughtful, practical insight to every matter. We think strategically, move quickly when it counts, and work as a team to support our clients’ interests. Every client has access to the full breadth of our knowledge and experience – not just one lawyer – so they benefit from well-rounded perspectives and solutions that are both efficient and effective. We focus on delivering quality work that reflects both our expertise and our commitment to value.
Supporting confident decision-making
We help clients make informed choices that support long-term success. By being proactive, engaged, and clear in our communication, we ensure clients understand not only the legal implications of their decisions, but also the opportunities ahead. Our goal is to empower clients with clarity, helping them move forward with confidence, direction, and peace of mind.
Innovating with purpose
With more than 100 years of history behind us, we remain committed to evolving with the world around us. We continually refine our approach, adopt new technologies, and embrace forward-thinking practices that help us meet increasingly complex needs efficiently and thoughtfully. Through this combination of experience, adaptability, and integrity, we uphold the highest standards of the legal profession while shaping the future of the practice for the benefit of our clients and communities.
Experienced stewardship
Our leadership team is committed to guiding the firm forward, focused on helping clients succeed in a constantly evolving world. They champion innovation while preserving the strengths that define who we are. By nurturing a collaborative, people-first culture, they ensure our firm remains a trusted partner to those we serve.
A century of character, innovation & leadership
The foundation of leadership
Gardiner Roberts traces its roots back to 1913, when H. Fred Parkinson joined the law offices of Mowat, Langton & MacLennan, quickly becoming a full partner. His brother, Harry, soon followed his path into the profession. After articling with Rowell, Read, Wood & Wright, Harry partnered with Frederick G. Gardiner, and the two established their practice on Broadview Avenue. By 1935, they joined forces with H. Fred and Harry Willis to form Parkinson, Gardiner & Willis, setting the stage for what would eventually become Gardiner Roberts.
The firm’s evolution continued in 1948 with the arrival of Harry D. Roberts, a driven young student who would help shape the next era. Like many law firms over the decades, the name changed with growth, transitions, and new leadership until 1967, when Gardiner Roberts officially emerged as the banner the firm proudly carries today.
Shaped by people who made an impact
Our identity wasn’t built by bricks and signage, but by the remarkable people who poured their skill, tenacity, and character into the work.
H.F. Parkinson was known for exceptional technical acumen and an obsessive attention to detail, qualities that made him a legend in appellate advocacy.
Fred Gardiner, by contrast, was bold, charismatic, and completely at home in the courtroom. His drive for justice extended to public service: as the first Chairman of the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto in 1953, “Big Daddy” Gardiner left his unmistakable mark before returning to the practice he loved.
Harry Parkinson carved out a respected reputation in residential real estate, while the calm and steady Harry Roberts became a go-to authority in commercial real estate. John Conlin, a decorated war hero and pioneer in administrative law, helped define municipal and zoning practice before the Ontario Municipal Board. And when the Honourable Lloyd W. Houlden joined the firm after serving on the Ontario Court of Appeal, he brought influential leadership and strength in commercial insolvency.
A pivotal milestone came in 1999 with the merger with Farano Green. This strategic expansion added deep tax expertise and reinforced GR’s growing prominence as a trusted leader in commercial law.
A legacy still in motion
For more than 100 years, Gardiner Roberts has grown through collaboration, curiosity, and the distinct talents of the individuals who choose to build their careers here. What began as a small, determined partnership has become a modern, forward-thinking law firm that is still driven by the same spirited commitment to clients, community, and the future.
Local expertise.
Global reach.
Gardiner Roberts is a member of MSI Global Alliance, an international federation of independent professional firms representing more than 250 member companies in 100 countries around the world.
MSI firms are amongst the most well-respected advisors in their regions, delivering the local insights and advantages you need to manage your needs effectively and efficiently – anywhere, every time.
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