David Corbett is the Firm Managing Partner of Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP, a leading international business law and litigation firm with over 650 lawyers. In addition to his role in advancing the priorities of the Firm's practice and professional staff worldwide, David guides Fasken Martineau's strategic direction to support the strong, measured growth of the Firm and its services to an increasingly international client base.
Since his election to this role in February 2006, David has been central to driving the Firm's network expansion both in Canada and in Europe. By combining with UK-based Stringer Saul LLP in February 2007, Fasken Martineau became the first Canadian law firm to merge with a London law firm, offering clients seamless access to UK-trained legal practitioners who provide English legal opinions on international transactions. David also oversaw the March 2007 merger with Johnston & Buchan that added a highly respected Ottawa practice with expertise in communications, trade law and federal regulatory process.
In September 2009, David led the Firm's expansion into Paris through the merger with Gravel, Leclerc & Partners and the addition of several Paris-based lawyers from a leading international law firm. Fasken Martineau is now the largest Canadian law firm operating in Europe and will provide enhanced services to clients in cross-border transactions, EU regulations, international arbitrations, and a wide range of other highly specialized business law and litigation services. The merger also enhances the Firm's presence in Africa, particularly related to projects and natural resources, such as mining and energy, as well as M&A transactions and project financing.
David is a member of Fasken Martineau's Labour & Employment Group and his practice involves advising and representing employers in labour and employment matters. He has frequently appeared as counsel before arbitrators, labour boards, and other labour and employment tribunals. His areas of specialization include union certification, collective bargaining, grievance arbitration, occupational health and safety, human rights, and wrongful dismissal. He is known for his practical, proactive advice and regularly advises employers on employee policies and procedures.
David joined the Firm as an associate in 1979 and became a partner in 1985. He founded the Toronto Labour and Employment Group in 1983 and served as co-chair of the group between 1989 and 2004. David was then elected to Regional Managing Partner of the Toronto office and to the Firm's Partnership Board of which he remains a member. David is also listed in the 2007 edition of Canada's Directory of Directors.