Osler’s copyright practice earns gold ranking in 2026 IAM Copyright 1000 Osler’s copyright practice earns gold ranking in 2026 IAM Copyright 1000

Osler’s Intellectual Property Group has earned a Gold firm ranking in the 2026 edition of the IAM Copyright 1000. The guide also recognizes Barry Fong, Matthew Diskin, Mat Brechtel and Sam Ip individually.

Artificial intelligence is among the emerging copyright issues highlighted in IAM’s editorial commentary. The guide also recognizes the team’s strength in litigation and regulatory matters, including tariff-setting proceedings and large-scale infringement claims. Osler acts for rights holders and users before the Copyright Board of Canada and courts in proceedings that help shape the economic framework of copyright in Canada.

Four Osler lawyers received individual rankings:

Barry Fong — Gold. IAM highlights Barry’s work in copyright regulation and enforcement, including his representation of collective societies and industry stakeholders before the Copyright Board. His experience includes proceedings concerning music used by online services and tariffs for copying works at post-secondary institutions.

Matthew Diskin — Silver. Matt is recognized for his experience in complex copyright litigation, particularly in the media and entertainment sectors. His work includes disputes involving fair dealing, personality rights and technological protection measures, including litigation concerning the use of copyrighted material in documentary filmmaking.

Mat Brechtel — Silver. Described by IAM as “a key asset to the firm,” Mat acts in proposed class actions concerning the use of copyrighted works to train AI systems, including Federal Court proceedings in which he represents a generative AI developer facing allegations involving large image datasets. IAM also highlights his litigation protecting Indigenous artwork, in which he secured significant damages to remedy cultural appropriation.

Sam Ip — Bronze. IAM highlights Sam’s work in multi-party copyright litigation involving emerging technologies. He is defending technology clients in generative AI class actions that raise questions about the use of copyrighted works in model training.

The rankings reflect the breadth of Osler’s copyright practice as new technologies raise significant questions for creators, rights holders and businesses. Osler was also ranked Band 1 for Artificial Intelligence in the 2027 edition of Chambers Canada.

Read the 2026 IAM Copyright 1000 rankings (for subscribers only).