WeirFoulds LLP celebrates the retirement of long-time colleague and respected counsel Christopher Tzekas, marking the close of an exceptional career that has spanned more than four decades. Having begun his career at the firm in 1979, Chris has been a cornerstone of the firm's Municipal, Planning & Land Development, and Expropriation practice groups for over 46 years, contributing significantly to the development of these areas of law in Ontario and across Canada.
Partner Sean Foran noted the lasting influence that Chris has had on the firm, stating that "Chris is steady, principled and deeply committed to the public good, and has been a trusted voice at WeirFoulds for as long as I can remember. His insight, generosity, and mentorship have shaped so many of us. His retirement marks the end of an era here, and he leaves a legacy we are all proud to carry forward."
Throughout his career, Chris represented a diverse array of clients including provincial ministries, municipalities, public agencies, and private-sector clients and organizations on complex matters involving land use, planning approvals, infrastructure development, and compensation disputes. His work brought him before municipal councils, administrative tribunals, and every level of court, including the Ontario Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Known for his clarity of thought, meticulous preparation and unwavering professionalism, Chris earned a reputation as a lawyer whose judgment was trusted in the most challenging files. Over the course of his career, Chris has been recognized by numerous third-party organizations and publications for his expertise, including being ranked by Best Lawyers in Canada as Toronto's "Lawyer of the Year" in Expropriation Law in the 2018, 2021, 2024, and 2026 editions of the directory.
Chris's contributions extend well beyond client work. A dedicated contributor to the broader legal community, he authored papers, delivered presentations at leading conferences, and helped guide the profession through his involvement with key associations. He served as President of both the Ontario Expropriation Association and the Hellenic Canadian Lawyers' Association, roles that underscore his subject-matter expertise and his commitment to service and mentorship.
"Chris is a mentor and a model of professionalism. He sets a high bar for leadership in our firm and the broader expropriation field," said Partner Abbey Sinclair.
Equally notable is Chris' longstanding dedication to community life, including meaningful involvement with Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO), the Greek Orthodox Church of Canada, the Greek Community, and acting as counsel to the Hellenic Home for the Aged, Inc., among other civic and cultural institutions. His combination of legal skill, integrity, and service deeply shaped those around him, from lawyers he mentored, to colleagues he guided, and clients who relied on his counsel.
"Chris has been an integral part of WeirFoulds for decades, and his commitment to clients, the firm, and the community has left a lasting mark on us all," said Denise Baker, Chair of WeirFoulds. "We extend our deepest gratitude to him and wish him health, joy, and relaxation in retirement."
"Serving the public and working alongside such dedicated colleagues has been one of the great privileges of my life. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to supporting the community in new ways," said Chris. "WeirFoulds has been my professional home for my entire career. I've grown here, learned here, and made lifelong friendships. I'm grateful for every moment, and I leave knowing the firm is in exceptional hands."
As Chris moves onto his next chapter, the firm reflects on the generosity, leadership, and commitment he has shown throughout his many years with WeirFoulds. We congratulate him on an extraordinary career, and extend our warmest wishes.