Melissa Hunt Death: Toronto, ON Obituary – On March 20, 2025, the legal community and the city of Toronto were deeply shaken by the untimely death of Melissa Hunt, a highly respected and accomplished lawyer. At the time of her passing, Melissa was a Senior Associate at Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP, a position that allowed her to showcase her exceptional legal skills, unwavering dedication to her clients, and profound commitment to justice. Her sudden death leaves a significant void not only in her firm but also within the wider legal profession.
Melissa’s journey to becoming a legal luminary was marked by hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. After earning her Doctor of Law (JD) from York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School in 2007, she quickly embarked on a career that would take her to the highest echelons of the legal world. Her initial foray into the legal field began as a Law Clerk at the Federal Court of Appeal in Ottawa, where she developed her legal research and writing expertise.
Following her clerkship, Melissa joined Sullivan & Cromwell LLP in New York City, where she became a litigation associate. Her nearly nine years at the prestigious firm honed her skills in complex litigation and solidified her reputation as an exceptional attorney capable of handling the most challenging legal matters. Her work on high-profile cases was instrumental in securing favorable outcomes for her clients, and her legal prowess became well-known within the industry.
In 2017, Melissa took on a new challenge as the Legal Director for Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. in Ajax, Ontario. In this role, she oversaw corporate governance, compliance, and regulatory matters, further expanding her diverse skill set in corporate law. It was clear that Melissa possessed the unique ability to navigate complex legal issues while maintaining a strong ethical compass, a trait that was valued by all who worked with her.
After several years in corporate law, Melissa returned to private practice in 2021 as a Senior Associate at McEwan Partners in Vancouver, British Columbia. There, she continued to thrive, establishing herself as a fierce advocate and earning the respect of both her peers and clients. Her work in litigation was marked by her strategic thinking and meticulous attention to detail.
Melissa’s return to Toronto in 2021 to join Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP saw her continuing to shine in her field. Her colleagues at the firm remember her not only for her exceptional legal skills but also for her mentorship. She was a beacon of support for junior lawyers, always willing to share her wisdom and provide guidance to help them excel in their careers.
Outside of her professional life, Melissa was known for her generosity and commitment to giving back to the community. She was a passionate advocate for underrepresented individuals and worked tirelessly on pro bono cases to ensure equal access to justice for all. Her work with legal aid organizations is a testament to her belief in social justice and her dedication to making a positive impact on society.
The news of Melissa’s passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and clients. Many have shared fond memories of working alongside her, praising her not only for her legal expertise but also for her kindness, generosity, and deep sense of integrity. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of lawyers to uphold the values of justice, compassion, and professionalism.
As the legal community mourns this tragic loss, Melissa Hunt’s contributions will not be forgotten. Her career was a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional lawyer, a compassionate mentor, and a staunch advocate for justice. She will be missed by all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire and shape the legal profession for years to come.
