Patterson Law LLP Lawyers Recognized in the 2027 Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada™
Published September 1, 2026
We are pleased to celebrate the Patterson Law LLP lawyers recognized in the 2027 Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada™ and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada™.
Best Lawyers recognition is determined through an extensive peer-review process, with lawyers evaluating the professional abilities of colleagues within their respective practice areas. The results reflect the respect our lawyers have earned among members of the legal profession and the strength of the work being done across our offices and practice areas.
Recognized Lawyers
Halifax, NS
- Janice E. Beaton, KC – Family Law
- Ryan P. Brennan – Real Estate Law
- Daniel F. Gallivan, KC – Corporate Governance Practice; Corporate Law; Energy Regulatory Law; Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law; Mergers and Acquisitions Law; Securities Law
- Kate D. Harris, KC, TEP – Corporate Law; Tax Law; Trusts and Estates
- Robert M. Purdy, KC – Insurance Law; Personal Injury Litigation
- Jared B. Schwartz – Corporate Law; Real Estate Law
- Michael P. Scott – Class Action Litigation; Corporate and Commercial Litigation; Criminal Defence
Truro, NS
- Ellen R. Burke – Family Law
- Jane M. Gourley-Davis – Real Estate Law
- Jennifer Hamilton Upham, KC, TEP – Corporate Law; Tax Law; Trusts and Estates
- Dennis J. James, KC – Corporate and Commercial Litigation; Labour and Employment Law; Municipal Law
- Karen J. Killawee – Family Law
- George L. White, KC, TEP – Corporate Law; Trusts and Estates
New Glasgow, NS
- Julie MacPhee – Labour and Employment Law
- Mary Jane Saunders – Trusts and Estates
- Joel Sellers – Real Estate Law
Bridgewater, NS
- R. Andrew Kimball – Corporate Law
2027 Lawyer of the Year Awards
Each year, Best Lawyers selects one lawyer in a particular practice area and geographic region as “Lawyer of the Year,” reflecting particularly strong feedback from their peers.
We are especially proud to celebrate two Patterson Law lawyers receiving this distinction in the 2027 Edition:
Kate D. Harris, KC, TEP – Trusts and Estates (Halifax)
Kate’s recognition reflects her longstanding leadership in trusts and estates and her ability to guide clients through sophisticated estate, tax, and succession planning matters. Her practical and strategic approach has made her a trusted advisor to individuals, families, business owners, and fellow professionals alike.
George L. White, KC, TEP – Corporate Law (Truro)
George’s recognition reflects the depth of experience and sound judgment he brings to corporate and commercial matters. Throughout his career, he has been a trusted advisor to businesses and their owners, helping clients navigate important transactions, governance matters, succession planning, and long-term business decisions.
Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada™ – 2027 Edition
Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada™ recognizes lawyers for outstanding professional excellence in private practice. Like the traditional Best Lawyers awards, recognition is based on peer review and highlights lawyers who are earning the respect of their colleagues within the profession.
Eryn Heidel – Family Law (Truro)
Eryn’s recognition reflects the thoughtful and solutions-focused approach she brings to family law. Whether working toward a negotiated resolution or advocating for clients in court, she is committed to helping clients navigate challenging circumstances with clear advice and strong representation.
Anna-Marie Manley – Labour and Employment Law (Truro)
Anna-Marie’s recognition reflects the practical perspective and strong advocacy she brings to labour and employment matters. Her ability to understand the realities of the workplace allows her to provide clear, strategic advice across a wide range of employment issues.
Kristin Pike – Real Estate Law (Halifax)
Kristin’s recognition reflects the strong reputation she has built in real estate law and her commitment to making complex transactions as straightforward as possible for her clients. Her practical, attentive approach helps individuals and businesses navigate important property decisions with clarity and confidence.
