Steven M. Shafir, KC

Steve Shafir, KC, is a distinguished partner with an emphasis on debt recovery and realization. His expertise spans both secured and unsecured debts, routinely representing financial institutions and other creditors with a proven track record in the Provincial Court of Alberta, Court of King’s Bench of Alberta, Alberta Court of Appeal, and the Nunavut Court of Justice.

Known for his unparalleled service, Steve strives to achieve the highest recovery possible on behalf of those he represents while working with debtors to rehabilitate debts in default. His clients trust him to administer entire default portfolios, protecting them from financial and reputational risks.

In addition to his legal practice, Steve has a unique history of having provided limited consular assistance services on behalf of the State of Israel to its citizens living in Edmonton and Northern Alberta. He has also acted for victims of terrorist attacks, assisting in obtaining judgment and restitution in favour of families of victims against terrorist entities and those who finance terror.

Honoured with the designation of Queen's Counsel in 2022, Steve’s contributions to the legal community extend beyond his practice. He has taught courses on foreclosures and collections for the Legal Education Society of Alberta, lectured at the Edmonton Real Estate Board, and assisted members of Alberta Justice in designing, implementing, and testing the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta’s “Justice Digital” electronic filing system. Steve is also an active member of the Canadian Bar Association Debtor and Creditor Law and Foreclosure Law subsections and provides pro bono services to several community organizations.

Away from work, Steve is deeply involved in his community. He serves on the board of several organizations and has held positions as a Director of Canada’s Centre for Israel & Jewish Affairs and Past President of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton.

Recently Reported Decisions

• Royal Bank of Canada v. Avva, 2017 NUCJ 20
• Royal Bank of Canada v. Learmonth, 2014 ABQB 756
• Royal Bank of Canada v. Place, 2010 ABQB 733

Recognitions, Rankings and Awards

• Best Lawyers:
  • Corporate and Commercial Litigation
  • Real Estate Law
• King Charles III Coronation Medal, 2025
• Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, 2023
• National Award of Excellence for Commitment to the Canadian Jewish Community, 2009