In the competitive legal landscape, many new law graduates often set their sights on prestigious positions within New York’s elite Biglaw firms. This is particularly true for those entering the field from law schools across Canada, who see such roles as paramount stepping stones to a successful career. Erik De Lorenzi, a Canadian law graduate, was no exception until recent developments led him to a significant change of heart.

De Lorenzi’s initial plan included joining a multibillion-dollar international law firm in Manhattan. Yet, in a climate marked by tensions between the U.S. and Canada—coupled with President Trump’s administration’s challenging stance toward Canada—he found the prospect of relocating and paying taxes in the United States to be troubling. Consequently, he opted to redirect his ambitions back to his roots in Canada.

“Each generation of Canadians gets to define what it means to be a Canadian. I’ve never stood a post. But all of us are capable of answering the call in our own way.”

“So I am proud to have torn up my offer and with it, my plans to start my legal career as a corporate lawyer in Manhattan. Instead, I will stay in Canada to start my practice with Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP in Toronto where I will support Canadian companies creating jobs and prosperity right here at home and not south of the border.”

“I know thousands of young Canadians working abroad or planning to start careers in the U.S. are thinking the same. Here’s hoping many decide to make a different choice!”

These statements come from a recent LinkedIn post in which De Lorenzi expressed his conviction to build his career in Canada, focusing on contributing to the Canadian economy and aiding local businesses.

His decision has prompted a wave of support, particularly among Canadian academics and legal professionals. Geoffrey Turner, a professor at the University of Toronto Law, remarked, “It is good to see your example as the possible start of a reverse-brain-drain trend among law students. Canada (and Davies) are better for it.”

De Lorenzi’s choice stands out in contrast to the reactions of many in the Biglaw sector, where a significant number of graduates continue to chase opportunities in the U.S. His stance has been described as a courageous move, advocating for a shift in mindset among similar professionals who may be contemplating their career paths.