(Toronto) On November 14, 2006, Lexpert magazine recognized Canada's top 40 lawyers and corporate counsel under 40 at the Rising Stars Gala in Toronto, Ontario. James Heelan, a litigation partner and managing partner of the firm's Edmonton office, was among the recipients of this award.

James was selected from 85 finalists who demonstrated the characteristics of high-achieving lawyers, including being recognized leaders and team players with superior interpersonal skills, business acumen and responsiveness to change. Selected major accomplishments were also considered. An advisory board of senior lawyers, including Bennett Jones' own Hugh MacKinnon, was tasked with selecting the top 40 winners.

Also named as one of the 85 finalists was Jennifer Miller, another litigation partner in the Edmonton office.

Congratulations to both James and Jennifer for this outstanding achievement.