Philip A. Garbutt

Phil retired from the firm as Managing Partner and Counsel effective December 31, 2023.

Phil joined the firm as an associate in 1987 and became a partner in 1991.  He invested 37 years into building his practice and contributing to the growth of the firm and the local community. 

In considering his career to be an exciting novel, Phil is grateful to have had so many wonderful chapters.  Phil had the privilege of practicing across a variety of areas including insurance and construction litigation; corporate and commercial matters; as well as family and criminal matters.  While he practiced primarily in the GTA and southern Ontario, Phil’s career took him to London, New York, Nashville and many other wonderful places.  Most importantly, Phil is thankful to have had the opportunity to represent many wonderful clients and to work with other legal professionals whose guidance, collegiality and humour made practicing law a rich and rewarding career.  

Over the years Phil was involved with numerous local arts and minor sports organizations and played a key role in the creation of RIM Park and the Grey Silo golf course in Waterloo.  In addition, he devoted many years to leading the firm’s administration.  He oversaw the construction and planning for the firm’s relocation to new offices in Waterloo, accomplishing a seamless move in November of 2020 that has greatly enhanced and assured the firm’s future success.

As many know, Phil has been providing services as a mediator and arbitrator for over 20 years.  In his next career chapter, Phil will continue to help others settle disputes in his mediation and arbitration practice through his company, Peaceworks ADR*.   He welcomes the opportunity to continue to work with others to help them resolve matters so they can move forward.

*Giffen LLP is not affiliated with Peaceworks ADR

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