Robert A. MacDonald Retired Partner


Speaks:  English

Year of Call: 1983 - Ontario


Primary office:  Ottawa




Robert A. MacDonald

Robert MacDonald is a retired partner and trademark agent based in Ottawa. He served as co-leader of Gowling WLG's global Intellectual Property Group for many years.

Over the course of his career, Robert specialized in assisting clients with clearing, protecting and enforcing their brands in the Canadian market. He has over 35 years of experience in all areas of trademark law, including prosecution, licensing, oppositions and litigation.

Robert was known for taking a collaborative, team-based approach to the delivery of legal services. He was certified by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) as a Specialist in Intellectual Property Law (Trademarks), and also served on its Committee for the Certification of Specialists in Intellectual Property.

Described by Managing Intellectual Property (MIP) as "one of Canada's foremost trademark practitioners," Robert consistently achieved recognition in prominent legal directories. He was listed in Chambers Global 2020 and Legal 500 Canada 2020 for Intellectual Property, and was a recipient of a 2018 Client Choice Award for his commitment to client service and ability to find practical solutions to complex problems. Client commentary on Robert in support of the award included:

"Rob and his team never let the client down; they are responsive, fast, diligent, detailed and attentive to client needs." … "Rob is sharp, knowledgeable and responsive; he provides practical, business-oriented and reliable advice."

Most recently, Robert was named in the WTR Global Leaders 2021 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the MIP Americas Awards 2020.

Robert's insight was frequently sought as a speaker at events held by the LSO, as well as other prominent groups such as the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada (IPIC).

Robert has served as a lecturer for the Advanced Practical Trademarks Course offered by McGill University and the IPIC. He also shared his expertise with others by regularly contributing articles to a variety of professional publications.

Career & Recognition

Filter timeline: