Look, we didn't set out to be just another corporate law firm. When we started back in 2011, we wanted to do things differently—actually listen to clients, cut through the legal jargon, and deliver results that matter. Fourteen years later, we're still holding to that vision, just with a few more war stories under our belts.
The Beginning
Three lawyers walked away from Bay Street firms, tired of billable hours mattering more than actual outcomes. We rented a tiny office on King Street and took on our first client—a mid-size manufacturer getting squeezed in a supplier dispute. That case taught us everything about what we wanted to be.
Growth Phase
We'd proven ourselves in the trenches, handling commercial disputes that other firms found too messy or complicated. Moved into the Ernst & Young Tower and brought on associates who shared our approach—less ego, more strategy. Started getting calls from companies facing class actions and regulatory headaches.
Specialization
By now, we'd carved out our niche—complex business litigation that required both legal smarts and commercial understanding. Added IP protection and M&A advisory after realizing our clients needed help before disputes erupted, not just after. Started teaching other lawyers at industry conferences.
Today
We're not the scrappy startup anymore, but we haven't lost that edge. Twenty-three lawyers, a client roster that spans industries, and a reputation for taking on the cases that matter. Still answering our phones directly, still treating every client like they're the only one that matters.
Meet the Partners
The folks steering the ship
Marcus Chen
Managing Partner
Spent fifteen years at a big firm before realizing I was spending more time on internal politics than actual law. Co-founded Obsidralynth to get back to what matters—solving problems for clients who need real answers, not just legal opinions. Still get a kick out of courtroom work, especially when the other side thinks they've got us cornered.
Bar Admission: 2002, Law Society of Ontario
Notable Cases: Successfully defended multinational tech company in $85M breach of contract claim; led plaintiff team in securities class action resulting in $42M settlement
Recognition: Chambers Canada - Corporate/Commercial Litigation (2018-2025)
Sarah Kowalski
Senior Partner
My background's a bit unusual—worked in corporate development before law school, so I actually understand what keeps CEOs up at night. That perspective's been gold when handling M&A deals and commercial disputes. I've seen deals blow up from both sides of the table, which makes me pretty good at spotting issues before they become expensive problems.
Bar Admission: 2005, Law Society of Ontario
Notable Work: Advised on 60+ M&A transactions totaling over $2B; resolved shareholder dispute involving international joint venture
Professional: Member, Canadian Bar Association - Business Law Section; frequent speaker on contract negotiation strategies
David Okonkwo
Partner, Litigation
Started my career doing criminal defense, which taught me how to think on my feet and read a room. Switched to commercial lit because, honestly, the pay's better and the hours are slightly less brutal. But that trial experience? Invaluable. When we're in front of a judge, I know how to tell a story that sticks. Plus, opposing counsel tends to underestimate the guy who came up through the criminal courts.
Bar Admission: 2008, Law Society of Ontario
Trial Record: 40+ trials to verdict; successful defense of manufacturer in product liability class action; obtained injunction protecting trade secrets in emergency hearing
Awards: Lexpert Rising Star (2015-2017); Ontario Trial Lawyers Association member
Jennifer Marsh
Partner, IP & Regulatory
Engineering degree before law school, so I actually understand the tech and patents we're protecting. Joined the firm in 2017 when they realized IP disputes weren't going away—if anything, they're getting more complex. What I love about this work is it's equal parts technical analysis and strategic thinking. And yeah, explaining semiconductor patents to judges keeps things interesting.
Bar Admission: 2012, Law Society of Ontario
Specialization: Patent litigation, trade secret protection, regulatory compliance for tech companies
Professional: Registered Patent Agent; International Trademark Association member; published author on IP strategy
Our Approach
We're not gonna pretend every case is the same or give you cookie-cutter advice. Your business has unique challenges, and frankly, that's what makes this work interesting. We dig into the details, understand what you're actually trying to achieve, and build a strategy that makes sense for your situation—not just what looks good on paper. Sometimes that means aggressive litigation, sometimes it means finding a smart settlement. We'll tell you which is which.
Let's Talk About Your Case