Since being founded in 1990 in Markham, Ont., Minken Employment Lawyers has earned a formidable reputation throughout the Greater Toronto Area and nationally for advising and advocating on behalf of employers.
It is a testament to its unwavering commitment to HR professionals across Canada and explains why it has remained a trusted strategic partner in the constantly evolving workplace landscape.
Founded by Ronald S. Minken, the firm was one of Canada’s first employment law boutiques and was recently honoured in Canadian HR Reporter’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. From the outset, the goal has been clear:
“We’re honoured to be recognized by the HR community we serve, and our mission has been simple: provide proactive, pragmatic, and principled legal advice and advocacy that gives employers peace of mind,” says Minken.
This philosophy has guided the firm through seismic shifts in employment law – from the rise of remote work and pay transparency legislation to the integration of artificial intelligence in HR processes and the complexities of mass terminations. Minken’s team doesn’t just react to legal changes; they anticipate them, equipping clients with the foresight and strategies needed to stay compliant and competitive.
Strategic partnership in a changing world
What truly distinguishes Minken Employment Lawyers is its integration with HR teams and management. Employment lawyer senior associate Sara A. Kauder explains, “When HR leaders call us, they’re often dealing with high-stakes issues. We prioritize responsiveness, clarity, and delivering not just answers but clear direction.”
This approach is especially vital as organizations navigate new regulatory frameworks, such as pay equity, privacy, and workplace safety in the digital age. Minken’s lawyers work side by side with clients to align HR strategy with legal compliance, helping employers manage risk while fostering positive workplace cultures.
“Being a strong legal partner means more than interpreting the law; it means standing alongside HR leaders with insight, urgency, and unwavering advocacy when it matters most,” adds another of the firm’s senior associates, Tanya Sambi.
This commitment to partnership is reflected in the firm’s impressive client retention rate of over 99 percent and its national presence, serving organizations in nearly every sector across Canada.
Excellence and innovation
Behind the scenes, Minken’s operational leadership ensures that every client interaction is efficient.
“Our goal is to create a seamless client experience from first contact to final resolution,” says Natasha Krestinina, director of operations. “That means investing in leading-edge technology, streamlining processes, and ensuring every part of our operation supports excellence in service and outcomes.”
This dedication to service is matched by the firm’s leadership. Minken Employment Lawyers contributes to hundreds of media and legal publications – including HRD Canada, Canadian HR Reporter, The Globe and Mail, and the National Post – and is frequently interviewed by national and local media on workplace issues and legal developments.
The team also serves as guest speakers and trainers for HR and management teams, sharing insights on critical issues impacting the workplace both locally and globally.
More than legal advice: a true partner
Minken Employment Lawyers’ success is rooted in being trusted by HR professionals and management teams who need clear, business-minded legal support in the fast-changing world of work.
Its longevity and reputation are further reinforced by decades of recognition in top-tier employer legal services, a national footprint, and a commitment to supporting the community through corporate sponsorships, arts and culture, health and wellness, and charitable donations.
As the workplace continues to evolve, Minken Employment Lawyers remains steadfast in its mission: to help employers navigate complexity, manage risk, and achieve their business goals with confidence.