Duncan Macgillivray HBA, J.D.

Certified Specialist (Civil Litigation)

Lawyer Of The Year 2022

Duncan Macgillivray understands the gravity of personal injury. As he says, “This is your life we’re talking about. Choosing an injury lawyer is one of the most critical events in one’s life, impacting you and your family, and should not be taken lightly.”

Practicing in Northwestern Ontario gives Duncan a real advantage. He knows the landscape – the doctors, the treatment providers, the rehabilitation teams. Duncan also knows the challenges faced by injured people in this part of the province.

In addition, Duncan knows insurance law, another critical weapon in a personal injury case. For almost a decade, Duncan taught Insurance Law at the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law at Lakehead University.  Duncan currently teaches Civil Practice at the Faculty of Law.

Duncan is a writer for the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association blog, has chaired and presented at OTLA and Thunder Bay Law Association conferences on many occasions, and has been quoted in legal and local newspapers on personal injury and automobile insurance issues.

Duncan is the only Certified Specialist in Civil Litigation in Northwestern Ontario.

Duncan Macgillivray is active in the community, as reflected in the many organizations he’s been engaged with, including: Brain Injury Association of Thunder Bay (Board of Directors 2009 to 2017 and President 2010 to 2015), Thunder Bay Counselling Centre (Board of Directors 2009 to 2015 and Board Chair 2011 to 2015), the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association (Board of Directors 2015 to Present, Treasurer 2018 to 2021, Executive 2018 to Present), The Advocates’ Society, the Thunder Bay Law Association (Board of Directors 2012 to 2017),  and the Thunder Bay Kings (Board of Directors 2023 to Present).  As the Thunder Bay organizer for OTLA’s Bike Helmets on Kids program, Duncan has organized the donation of over 2,000 free bike helmets to elementary school kids.

Duncan Macgillivray’s Team

Duncan works closely with his staff, including Nancy Campbell, Personal Injury Analyst, Gayle DuBois, one of the most experienced legal assistants in Thunder Bay, and Samantha DiGiuseppe, Law Clerk.

Duncan Macgillivray’s Awards

  • Northwestern Ontario Visionary Award, Top 20 Under 40 (2012)
  • City of Thunder Bay Citizen of Exceptional Achievement (2015)
  • Best Lawyers in Canada, 2021 Edition
  • Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year Personal Injury Litigation Greater Ontario, 2022
  • Hockey Northwestern Ontario Coach of the Year 2023-2024

Duncan Macgillivray’s Qualifications & Affiliations

  • Called to the Bar of Ontario, 2009
  • Juris Doctor, Queen’s University School of Law, 2008
  • Honours Bachelor of Arts (Political Science), First Class Standing, St. Francis Xavier University, 2005
  • Ontario Trial Lawyers Association
  • The Advocates’ Society
  • Law Society of Ontario
  • Thunder Bay Law Association
  • Certified Specialist, Civil Litigation
Rocks

Testimonials

“Thanks for being professional and patient as we worked through this unfortunate incident. You and your office have been excellent to work with, and we would definitely recommend you to anyone faced with a similar situation.”

J.M. (Slip and Fall Client)

“I would like to thank you for everything that that you have done for us. It was a very good experience and your firm was great to work with. I’m very pleased with it all. Thank you so much!!!!”

C.W. (Motor Vehicle Collision Client)

“I would just like to extend my many thanks to you and your team for all of your hard work over the past many years in order to represent my best interests…you are simply the best! Thanks again for everything Duncan. You truly are an “Agent of Good”.
”

D.W. (Motor Vehicle Collision Client)

“It was reassuring knowing we were in good hands and everything was handled swiftly with expertise. We could not have asked for better representation and are so appreciative of your kindness throughout the legal process.”

Q.C. (Motor Vehicle Collision Client)

“I just wanted to thank you for everything that you accomplished on my behalf. It was a pleasure dealing with you on this matter, your knowledge, expertise and professionalism are appreciated.”

B.N. (Slip and Fall Client)

“I would like to warmly thank you for your immense kindness and your listening since the first days after the accident. I will never forget you. THANK YOU!”

J Family (Fatal Collision)

“Thanks again for taking my case and doing an awesome job… and keeping me sane. I greatly appreciate it!”

D.P. (Long Term Disability Client)

“Being in a motor vehicle accident, it changes your life. You go through so much and the legal process is challenging, but, with experts in the field, it makes the biggest difference. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to handle my case, so thank you very much for everything, I appreciate it more than you know.”

N.B. (Motor Vehicle Collision Client)

“All I can say is Super Heroes!! When I needed their professional help, they helped with all the right answers!”

M.V. (Motor Vehicle Accident Client)

“Thank you for your time, care, compassion and commitment you demonstrated over the past months. Working with you gave me peace of mind and allowed me the time to work on myself and get better.”

F.S. (Long Term Disability Client)

“That is awesome news, which I am obviously not used to getting these days. This clearly demonstrates that I chose the right firm to represent me and the extraordinary hard work that you and your team have done.”

K.N. (Long Term Disability Client)

“The day I met you I walked into your office with a letter to discuss with you what my options were. At that point I was receiving nothing and because of your assistance I will actually be able to fund some sort of retirement. I can’t thank you enough.”

D.S. (Long Term Disability Client)

“I couldn’t be happier Duncan. Seriously, you and your team are an amazing fighting force. I will forever be grateful and awed by your skill and compassion. You have truly been my hero!!”

C.K. (Motor Vehicle Collision Client)

“Certainly, my view of what lawyers really accomplish has changed through dealing with my Dad’s affairs. Once again thanks for your time, efforts, and professionalism. My father has high regards for your effort and time to get the settlement in such a timely fashion”

T.S. (Nursing Home Negligence Client)