Wilson Drake

Unique Skills and Attributes

Wilson has deep experience advising ministers of state, government officials, ambassadors, and corporate executives on a wide range of policy development, stakeholder relations, risk management, anti-corruption, and international policy issues.

His domestic and international law practice includes advising clients on all aspects of business and corporate matters including corporate structures, international trade transactions, contract negotiations and dispute resolution. As a seasoned negotiator, Wilson is called upon by clients to lead negotiations and close business deals on mutually agreeable terms. When disputes occur, he represents clients in court, in mediation/arbitration, or, in proactive dispute negotiations.

Given that many of Wilson’s business law clients are owners and entrepreneurs, his practice includes advising his mid-to-high net worth clients in wills/estates law, business and personal succession planning, and consent/capacity issues, powers of attorney, and estate disputes.

Wilson is the lawyer-of-record for the Toronto Region Board of Trade’s “Trade Accelerator Program” (TAP) where he coaches businesses on entering foreign markets and on the nuances of doing business abroad.

Before private practice, Wilson worked as an advisor to governments in Canada and abroad. Wilson lived and worked overseas in several conflict zones, including nearly three years in Iraq where he helped stand-up the Iraqi Parliament and civil service.

Working for various governments and entities, Wilson completed assignments in Yemen, Jordan, Bahrain, South Sudan and in other places throughout the Middle East and North Africa. While on assignment, Wilson advised leaders on democratic reform, institutional structures, procurement, anti-corruption, and international best practices for governance and oversight.

Professional Associations

Wilson is a member of the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), and the Toronto Lawyer’s Association (TLA). He is also a member of the Advocates’ Society and a vetted member of IR Global.

He has served as the CFO and Official Agent to several senior and prominent Canadian politicians. Wilson also sits on many private corporate and charitable boards, including as a board director for the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research, and a non-profit housing corporation for a Fraternal Order.

Education

Wilson earned a Juris Doctorate from the University of Ottawa in 2011.

He is a graduate of Wilfred Laurier University with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in political science and international relations in 2001.

Wilson was admitted to the Bar of Ontario in 2014.

Personal Stuff

In addition to his thriving legal career, Wilson has diverse personal interests. He has a passion for arts and culture which fuels his appreciation for creativity.

Wilson also recognizes the importance of civil rights and social action, actively supporting initiatives that strive for equality, justice, and positive social change. Committed to economic empowerment, he believes in inspiring individuals and businesses to achieve financial stability and success.

Education is another area close to Wilson’s heart, as he recognizes the pivotal role it plays in personal growth and societal progress. He values the pursuit of knowledge and actively supports educational initiatives that expand access and opportunities for all.

Wilson firmly believes in upholding human rights and advocating for the rights and dignity of every individual. He actively supports organizations and causes that work tirelessly to protect and promote human rights locally and globally. He also recognizes the importance of disaster and humanitarian relief.