Chris Stanek, a distinguished partner at Gowling WLG, is celebrated for his prowess in litigation within the firm's Toronto office. His approach to litigation is marked by a blend of aggressiveness and creativity, particularly in resolving complex commercial disputes. Stanek's reputation extends across Canadian, American, and international borders, where he has secured significant victories for financial institutions and corporate clients.

Stanek's expertise shines in real estate-related disputes, encompassing construction, leasing, and real property issues. Tailoring dispute resolution strategies to the unique needs of each client, he champions their objectives with innovative solutions, often outside the traditional litigation framework. His track record includes successful representation of contractors, lenders, and developers in intricate construction disputes.

His courtroom experience spans all levels in Ontario, including several administrative tribunals. Stanek is adept at arguing appeals in both the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Appeal, and he has a strong history of success in arbitration.

Between 2017 and 2019, Stanek co-led The Advocates' Society's Construction Practice Group, actively contributing to legislative discussions on the Construction Lien Act. His membership in the American Bar Association Construction Forum's Division 1: Dispute Resolution and his role as session coordinator for the 2022 Annual Meeting in New York highlight his active involvement in the legal community. Stanek is also the author of a chapter in "Construction Law Update 2021," focusing on Canadian construction law.

As an educator, Stanek imparts his knowledge on civil trial advocacy at Ryerson University's Law Practice Program and has lectured widely on construction law and contracts. His contributions to legal education include speaking engagements at the University of Windsor's Faculty of Law.

Stanek's practice areas include Financial Institutions & Services, Infrastructure, Construction & Engineering, Energy, and various aspects of Litigation & Dispute Resolution. His career is supported by an LLB from the University of Windsor and a BA Honors in History from the University of Western Ontario.

His professional affiliations are extensive, including the Canadian Bar Association, the International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators, the Ontario Bar Association, The Advocates' Society, The Osgoode Society for Legal History, the Toronto Construction Association, and the American Bar Association Construction Forum, demonstrating his broad engagement with the legal profession.