On November 21,  2007, Lexpert magazine recognized Canada's top 40 lawyers and corporate counsel under 40 at the Rising Stars Gala in Toronto, Ontario. Derek Bell, a litigation partner in the firm's Toronto office and Chris Simard, a litigation partner in the firm's Calgary office were among the recipients of this award.

Both Derek and Chris were selected from 85 finalists who demonstrated the characteristics of high-achieving lawyers, including being recognized leaders and team players with superior interpersonal skills, business acumen and responsiveness to change. Selected major accomplishments were also considered. An advisory board of senior lawyers, including Bennett Jones' own Hugh MacKinnon, were tasked with selecting the top 40 winners.

Congratulations to both Derek and Chris for this outstanding achievement.