Our 125 Year History
Relying on a strong foundation of good people and quality work, our standard of excellence has only strengthened over the last 125+ years. Today, Cunningham Swan Carty Little & Bonham LLP comprises 30+ committed lawyers who work together with a highly skilled support staff, offering a full range of experienced legal support to Southeastern Ontario. Follow the journey of the generations of outstanding lawyers and staff that came before us.
1894 – 1981
Cunningham Little Bonham and Milliken
Arthur Cunningham, KC, a well-known counsel and respected solicitor, operated his law office at 79 Clarence Street for 53 years. Cunningham Little Bonham and Milliken Arthur’s sons, Douglas (Ben) Cunningham, QC, LLD, and Willis Cunningham, QC continued the law practice, and were later joined by Robert Little, QC, the Honourable Douglas Cunningham, QC, the Honourable Peter Milliken, MP and David Bonham, QC, FCA.
Swan Carty Belch and Ryan
David Rankin, MPP and Harry Wright began a law practice together after World War II and were followed by Peter Swan, QC, Michael Carty, QC, the Honourable Douglas Belch, QC and Paul Ryan.
Cunningham Swan Carty Little & Bonham LLP
The two firms merged in January 1982 to form Cunningham Swan Carty Little & Bonham LLP, a full service law firm in southeastern Ontario.
1894
1988
1991
The Honourable Douglas Cunningham, QC was appointed a Justice of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, and then as Associate Chief Justice of that Court.
1998
The Honourable Douglas M. Belch, QC was appointed a Justice of the Superior Court of Justice and presided in Kingston. Both are now retired from the bench after very distinguished careers.
1998
The Honourable Bonnie Warkentin, a former partner, was appointed a Justice of the Superior Court of Justice and presides in Ottawa.
Our People
From the friendly voice you hear when you call to book a meeting to the familiar face you see advocating for you in court, we work together to best serve you.
In the Community
We are one of the only full-service law firms in Southeastern Ontario.
More than that, we are your neighbors. We are your customers, your volunteers, and your teammates. We are the friendly face you see at the dog park and the familiar voice you hear around the gym.
We have been deeply embedded in the Kingston community for over 125 years as lawyers and professionals, but also as community members. We are committed to the constant and evolving support of our neighborhoods through volunteerism, mentorship, coaching, and financial contributions.
