Top 10 Psychedelics Lawyer in Canada
Canada is currently at the forefront of a global shift in how we view and regulate psychedelic substances. For years, these compounds were kept in the shadows, but today, we are seeing a massive “psychedelic renaissance.” From clinical trials involving psilocybin for depression to the regulated use of ketamine in wellness clinics, the landscape is changing fast. However, because these substances are still controlled under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, navigating the legal waters is incredibly tricky. Whether you are a healthcare provider, a researcher, or an entrepreneur looking to start a psychedelic-assisted therapy clinic, you cannot afford to make a mistake. The legal stakes are high, and the regulations are moving targets.
Finding the right legal counsel is the most important step for anyone entering this space. A good psychedelics lawyer does not just understand the law as it is written today; they understand where the government is heading tomorrow. They help with Health Canada applications, Section 56 exemptions, and the complex corporate structuring required to keep a business compliant. This list features the top 10 psychedelics lawyers and firms in Canada who have proven they have the expertise, the passion, and the regulatory “know-how” to guide clients through this emerging industry. If you want to stay on the right side of the law while pushing the boundaries of medicine and wellness, these are the experts you need on your team.
In this guide, we have ranked the top performers based on their specific experience in the psychedelic space, their reputation with Health Canada, and their ability to handle complex business transactions. While many big law firms are starting to open “emerging industry” departments, a few key players have been here since the beginning, helping to shape the very rules that everyone else is now following. Let’s dive into the top 10 legal experts who are leading the way in Canada’s psychedelic sector.
1. Substance Law
When it comes to the intersection of controlled substances and Canadian law, Substance Law stands head and shoulders above the rest. Founded and led by Harrison Jordan, this firm has earned its reputation as the premier choice for anyone navigating the psychedelics industry. Unlike many massive corporate firms that treat psychedelics as a side project, Substance Law lives and breathes this sector. They have a deep, specialized focus on the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and the Cannabis Act, which gives them a unique perspective on how Health Canada views “alternative” medicines and restricted compounds.
The team at Substance Law provides a comprehensive suite of services that are essential for startups and established players alike. They are experts at securing Section 56 exemptions, which allow individuals and organizations to legally possess and use controlled substances for medical or scientific purposes. They also assist with the Special Access Program (SAP), helping healthcare professionals gain access to restricted drugs for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions. Their work is not just about filling out forms; it is about strategic advocacy. Substance Law knows how to communicate with regulators to get results, often finding creative legal paths that others might miss.
Beyond regulatory hurdles, Substance Law is a powerhouse for business and corporate needs. They help clients with licensing, distribution agreements, and intellectual property protection. In an industry where “brand” and “proprietary blends” are becoming more valuable, having a lawyer who understands both the science and the commerce is a massive advantage. They also provide vital advice on marketing and advertising restrictions, ensuring that wellness clinics and product developers don’t run afoul of strict federal rules. Their client-first approach means they take the time to explain complex legal jargon in plain English, making them a favorite for entrepreneurs who are new to the regulated world.
What truly sets Substance Law apart is their commitment to the growth of the industry as a whole. Harrison Jordan is a well-known voice in the legal community, often providing commentary on policy changes and participating in industry-shaping discussions. When you hire Substance Law, you aren’t just getting a lawyer; you are getting a partner who is genuinely invested in the success of the psychedelic movement in Canada. Their track record of success, combined with their unmatched focus on this specific niche, makes them the clear number one choice on our list.
2. Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP is a heavy hitter in the Canadian legal scene, known for their work in “frontier” industries. They were one of the first major firms to build a dedicated cannabis practice, and they have successfully transitioned that expertise into the psychedelics space. Their team is particularly strong when it comes to capital markets and helping psychedelic companies go public. If you are a biotech firm looking to raise millions of dollars on the Canadian Securities Exchange, Cassels is often the first call you make.
Their services go beyond just finance. They have a robust regulatory team that understands the complexities of the Food and Drugs Act. This is crucial for companies developing new psychedelic-based pharmaceuticals. They help with clinical trial applications and ensure that every step of the research process meets federal standards. Their deep bench of lawyers means they can handle everything from high-level mergers and acquisitions to the fine details of employment law for new clinics.
While they are a large firm, they have maintained a very focused approach to psychedelics. They represent some of the biggest names in the industry, providing a level of prestige and security that investors love to see. Their ability to bridge the gap between “street-level” startups and “Bay Street” investors makes them a vital part of the Canadian psychedelic ecosystem. They offer a sophisticated, full-service experience for clients who have high-growth ambitions.
3. Bennett Jones LLP
Bennett Jones LLP is another top-tier Canadian firm with a long history of handling highly regulated industries like energy, tobacco, and cannabis. Their psychedelics practice is built on a foundation of regulatory excellence and government relations. Because the laws around psilocybin and MDMA are still being written, having a firm that knows how to talk to government officials is a major asset. Bennett Jones excels at helping clients navigate the “gray areas” of the law while keeping them safe from litigation.
Their team is particularly adept at intellectual property (IP) strategy. In the psychedelics world, many companies are racing to patent specific molecules, delivery methods, or therapy protocols. Bennett Jones helps these companies protect their inventions, which is often the most valuable asset a biotech startup has. They also provide expert advice on international trade, which is becoming more relevant as Canadian companies look to export their expertise and products to other jurisdictions.
The firm is known for its “client-centric” culture. They don’t just provide a list of laws; they provide business solutions. Whether it’s structuring a joint venture between a research lab and a clinic or defending a company in a regulatory dispute, Bennett Jones brings a high level of professionalism and strategic thinking. They are a reliable choice for any organization that needs a sophisticated legal partner with a global reach.
4. Miller Thomson LLP
Miller Thomson LLP has a very strong presence across Canada, with offices in almost every major province. This national reach is a huge benefit for psychedelic companies that operate in multiple jurisdictions. Each province has its own health regulations and business rules, and Miller Thomson is perfectly positioned to handle that complexity. They have a dedicated Health Industry Group that understands the nuances of patient care, which is a major focus for the psychedelic-assisted therapy sector.
One of their key strengths is their work with healthcare professionals. They advise doctors, nurses, and therapists on the legalities of recommending or administering psychedelic treatments. This includes drafting informed consent forms, navigating professional liability issues, and ensuring compliance with provincial colleges. As more clinics open up across Canada, the need for this kind of “on-the-ground” medical-legal advice is skyrocketing, and Miller Thomson is a leader in this field.
They also have a strong corporate and commercial team. They assist with leasing for clinics, partnership agreements, and tax planning. For a small to mid-sized psychedelic business, Miller Thomson offers a great balance of big-firm resources and personalized service. They are approachable, knowledgeable, and deeply integrated into the Canadian healthcare legal landscape.
5. Dentons Canada
Dentons is the world’s largest law firm, and their Canadian offices are a powerhouse for emerging technologies and life sciences. Their psychedelics practice benefits from this massive global network. If a Canadian company wants to expand into Europe or South America, Dentons can provide seamless legal support across borders. This makes them the go-to firm for companies with international aspirations in the psychedelic space.
Their Canadian team focuses heavily on the pharmaceutical side of psychedelics. They work with companies that are developing new drugs and need to navigate the long and expensive road of clinical trials. Dentons provides expert guidance on data protection, patent filing, and regulatory approval processes. They are also very active in the venture capital space, helping startups secure the funding they need to get their research off the ground.
What makes Dentons stand out is their “future-focused” mindset. They are constantly publishing reports and hosting webinars on the future of psychedelic law. They are not just reacting to changes; they are trying to predict them. For a client, this means getting advice that takes into account the long-term trends of the industry. They are a high-end firm for clients who need global expertise and a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.
6. McCarthy Tétrault
McCarthy Tétrault is widely considered one of the “Big Three” law firms in Canada. Their reputation for excellence is unmatched, and they bring that same level of rigor to their psychedelics practice. They primarily represent large institutional clients, investment banks, and major pharmaceutical companies. If a massive multi-national corporation is looking to acquire a Canadian psychedelic startup, McCarthy Tétrault is likely the firm handling the deal.
Their strength lies in high-stakes litigation and complex regulatory compliance. If a company finds itself in a major dispute with Health Canada or a competitor, McCarthy Tétrault has the resources to fight the battle. They also have an incredible team of tax and finance experts who can structure the most complicated deals imaginable. Their involvement in the psychedelic space adds a level of “corporate legitimacy” to the entire industry.
While they might be out of reach for a small startup, they are the gold standard for established companies that need the best possible legal protection. Their lawyers are some of the brightest minds in the country, and they provide a level of service that is meticulous and comprehensive. They are the firm you want in your corner when the stakes are at their highest.
7. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin
Fasken is a leading Canadian law firm with a very strong focus on life sciences and technology. Their psychedelics group is highly regarded for its work in intellectual property and regulatory affairs. They understand that in the world of psychedelics, the “recipe” is everything. They help companies protect their unique formulations and therapy methods, ensuring that their competitive advantage is legally secured.
Fasken is also very active in the cannabis space, and they have used that experience to build a very practical psychedelics practice. They understand the “Health Canada way” of doing things, which helps them move applications through the system more efficiently. They provide excellent advice on product labeling, packaging, and distribution, which are all highly regulated areas for controlled substances.
The firm is known for being very collaborative. They often work closely with their clients’ internal teams to ensure that legal strategy aligns with business goals. They are also very involved in the community, sponsoring events and contributing to the legal discourse around psychedelic reform. Fasken is a great choice for companies that value innovation and need a legal team that can keep up with a fast-paced environment.
8. Stikeman Elliott
Stikeman Elliott is another premier Canadian firm that excels in corporate law and capital markets. Their psychedelics practice is focused on helping companies raise money and execute strategic transactions. They have been involved in some of the largest financings in the psychedelic sector, providing the legal framework for millions of dollars in investment. If you are looking to list your company on a major stock exchange, Stikeman Elliott has the experience to make it happen.
Their regulatory team is also top-notch, providing advice on the CDSA and the Food and Drugs Act. They are particularly good at handling the “due diligence” process for investors. When an investor wants to put money into a psychedelic company, they need to know that the company is fully compliant with all laws. Stikeman Elliott provides the detailed audits and legal opinions that give investors the confidence to move forward.
The firm has a reputation for being very professional and efficient. They handle high-pressure deals with ease and provide clear, actionable advice. For companies that are in a high-growth phase, Stikeman Elliott offers the corporate muscle needed to scale quickly and safely. They are a “blue-chip” firm for a “blue-chip” industry.
9. Borden Ladner Gervais (BLG)
Borden Ladner Gervais, commonly known as BLG, is Canada’s largest law firm by headcount. This size gives them an incredible amount of specialized knowledge. Their psychedelics practice draws on experts from their healthcare, life sciences, and government relations groups. BLG is particularly strong when it comes to the “public law” side of things—dealing with hospitals, universities, and government agencies.
Many psychedelic research projects take place within universities or hospitals, and these institutions have very specific legal needs. BLG understands how to navigate the internal policies of these organizations while ensuring compliance with federal law. They are also experts in privacy law, which is a major concern for clinics that are collecting sensitive patient data during psychedelic sessions. Protecting patient confidentiality is a legal and ethical must, and BLG is a leader in this area.
BLG offers a very stable and reliable legal partnership. They have been around for a long time and have seen many “trend” industries come and go. Their approach to psychedelics is grounded in long-term sustainability and risk management. They are an excellent choice for public institutions and large healthcare providers who need a firm with a rock-solid reputation.
10. Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG is a global law firm with a very strong presence in Canada and the UK. They are world-renowned for their intellectual property practice, which is a key component of the psychedelics industry. If your business is based on a new discovery or a unique way of synthesizing a compound, Gowling is one of the best firms in the world to help you patent it. They have a team of lawyers who also have backgrounds in science, meaning they actually understand the chemistry behind the legal work.
In addition to IP, Gowling provides excellent corporate and regulatory support. They have a dedicated “Natural Health Products” group that understands the nuances of supplements and plant-based medicines. This is very relevant for the “natural” side of the psychedelics movement, such as companies working with non-synthetic psilocybin or other functional mushrooms. They help these companies navigate the line between “wellness products” and “controlled drugs.”
Gowling WLG is known for being very innovative in their own right. They use technology to streamline their legal services and provide better value to their clients. They are a great fit for tech-forward psychedelic companies that want a modern legal partner. Their global reach and deep scientific expertise make them a perfect choice to round out our top 10 list.
The world of psychedelic law in Canada is moving at a breakneck pace. What was illegal yesterday might be available through a special program today, and fully regulated tomorrow. For anyone looking to enter this space, the message is clear: do not go it alone. The regulatory environment is too complex, and the penalties for mistakes are too high. By choosing one of the experts on this list, you are giving your business or research project the best possible chance of success.
While every firm on this list brings something valuable to the table, Substance Law remains the top recommendation for those who want a specialized, dedicated, and highly effective partner. Their focus on the specific needs of the psychedelic community is unmatched. However, whether you need the global reach of Dentons or the IP strength of Gowling, Canada is home to some of the best legal minds in the world for this emerging sector. As the “psychedelic renaissance” continues, these lawyers will be the ones guiding the way toward a safer, more regulated, and more therapeutic future for all Canadians.