Akkila Thirukesan

Akkila is an associate in Baker McKenzie's Litigation & Government Enforcement Practice Group in Toronto. Prior to joining the Firm, Akkila acted as counsel with the Department of Justice Canada. She has appeared before all levels of Court in Ontario, the Federal Court, the Agricultural Review Tribunal, and assisted on matters before the Supreme Court of Canada. She has litigated a wide range of civil and administrative cases, including judicial review applications, negligence claims, constitutional challenges, and class actions.

During law school, Akkila interned with the Los Angeles Public Defender's Office, gaining valuable hands-on experience. She also conducted research on the intersection of gender and artificial intelligence with the University of Cape Town's Faculty of Law. Akkila excelled in the 2020 International Criminal Court Moot Competition, winning the Americas regional round and earning recognition as a top individual oralist, while her team secured third place overall in the international competition. Additionally, she emerged victorious in the 2021 Arnup Cup, hosted by the Advocate's Society, showcasing her advocacy skills in a prestigious trial advocacy competition.