Louis Frapporti

Louis Frapporti is a partner in Gowling WLG’s Hamilton office and a highly respected advocate and strategic advisor to companies, institutions, and community-based organizations of all sizes. With more than 30 years of experience, Louis is known for his ability to operate at the intersection of law, business strategy, public policy, and community leadership—helping clients navigate complexity, manage risk, and pursue transformative opportunities.

Over the course of his career at Gowling WLG, Louis has held a number of senior leadership roles, most notably serving as Managing Partner of the firm’s Hamilton office. During his tenure, the office experienced a period of significant growth and renewal, almost doubling in size through strategic recruitment and a landmark merger, while deepening its connection to the city’s key economic and civic institutions. Under his leadership, the office strengthened its market position, expanded its regional influence, and embarked on a bold plan to relocate to McMaster Innovation Park. Although that relocation was disrupted by the pandemic, Louis’ work to deepen the firm’s relationship with McMaster University, and more recently his work with Mohawk College and other post secondary institutions, reflects his long-standing commitment to innovation, collaboration, and place-based economic development.

Today, Louis’s practice is focused on providing high-level strategic advice to business leaders, boards, and institutions confronting inflection points—whether related to growth, restructuring, governance, public engagement, or complex stakeholder environments. He is frequently retained not simply for his legal judgment, but for his ability to synthesize legal, commercial, political, and reputational considerations into clear, actionable advice.

In parallel with his professional practice, Louis is a prominent community business leader and advocate for urban revitalization. He has played a visible leadership role in advancing major downtown renewal initiatives in Hamilton, including his work supporting the TD Coliseum project and the broader vision for a revitalized urban core anchored by arts, culture, and live entertainment. He is a frequent voice in regional media on issues relating to economic development, downtown renewal, and the role of the private sector in building inclusive, resilient cities.

Louis is also deeply committed to purpose-driven leadership and innovation in the pro bono and access-to-justice space. He has been a champion of new models for deploying legal services in support of underserved communities and social-impact organizations, working closely with institutional partners to modernize and expand the reach of pro bono initiatives.

Widely trusted by major institutions, civic leaders, and corporate clients alike, Louis brings a rare combination of legal acumen, strategic insight, and community credibility. He is recognized for his ability to convene stakeholders, shape public narratives, and help organizations align commercial success with long-term social and economic value.