Cheryl M. Woodin

Commercial & Regulatory Litigation

As Co-Head of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution department, Cheryl is a client-centered problem solver and trusted advocate for high-impact cases. With both jury and non-jury trial experience and appearances at all levels of court in Canada, Cheryl represents some of Canada’s largest companies in their most significant legal disputes, shaping legal outcomes with precision.

Cheryl’s experience in the courtroom has resulted in her recognition as one of Benchmark's Top 50 Trial Lawyers in Canada for 2026. 

Cheryl Woodin acted as a lead counsel in Workman Optometry Professional Corporation v. Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, recognized as one of Lexpert’s Top Ten Business Decisions of 2022–2023. Bennett Jones represented The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company in this business interruption coverage dispute arising out of industry wide claims for pandemic losses pursued in class proceedings.  The claim was successfully defended on its merits at trial. The Ontario Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal.

Product Liability & Class Actions

Cheryl is at the forefront of class action claims and multi-jurisdictional disputes in Canada, known for her precedent-setting work in consumer claims and product liability. She has been recognized as Class Action Litigator of the Year by Benchmark Canada and named the Toronto Lawyer of the Year in Product Liability Law by Best Lawyers in Canada.

Cheryl’s extensive experience spans a variety of industries—including automotive, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, consumer products, and financial services, among others. It also includes a variety of areas of law, including consumer protection laws of all kinds, competition issues, securities and environmental regulation.

Industry Leadership & Involvement

Cheryl is a highly engaged leader in the legal profession and beyond, actively shaping its future through thought leadership, mentorship, and service. She is a member of The Advocates' Society's Board of Directors for the 2025-2029 term, the Ontario Bar Association, and continues in her role as vice-chair of North America with the International Association of Defence Counsel. She is also an enthusiastic corporate fundraising committee member for the Guts & Glory event at Covenant House. Cheryl has been adjunct faculty at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and served as co-chair of the University of Toronto’s University Tribunal, Trial Division for many years, ending in 2025.

A sought-after speaker and recognized authority on litigation strategy, trial advocacy and class action defense, Cheryl regularly presents on civil litigation, risk management and regulatory developments. She clerked for Justice Allen Linden of the Federal Court of Appeal.