About Philip G. Kirman

Philip G. Kirman has been a valued member of Weir Bowen LLP since 1995, bringing more than three decades of experience in civil litigation, legal research and written advocacy to the firm.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Philip attended the University of Alberta, earning a Bachelor of Science with distinction in 1991 and a Bachelor of Laws in 1994. His academic achievements include receiving the 1991 University of Alberta Gold Medal in Science.

Following law school, Philip served articles of clerkship with the Alberta Court of Appeal and the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta before completing his articles with Weir Bowen. He has remained with the firm throughout his legal career.

A Career in Civil Litigation

Philip’s practice has emphasized careful legal research, written advocacy and the thoughtful analysis of complex legal issues. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with Weir Bowen’s medical malpractice group, contributing to cases involving challenging medical evidence, questions of liability and significant consequences for injured individuals and families.

Known for his thorough preparation and attention to detail, Philip approaches legal matters with precision and care. He believes clients deserve clear explanations of their options, the risks involved and the reasoning behind legal recommendations.

Teaching the Next Generation of Lawyers

In 2026, Philip is teaching at the University of Alberta Faculty of Law alongside Weir Bowen colleague Joseph Miller, KC. Drawing on decades of litigation experience, Philip brings practical insight into medical malpractice law, helping students understand the legal, medical and evidentiary complexities that arise in these cases.

His participation continues Weir Bowen’s longstanding involvement in legal education and reflects the importance of sharing practical knowledge with the next generation of lawyers.

Learn more about this initiative in From the Courtroom to the Classroom.

Legal Knowledge and Community Education

Philip has also contributed to Weir Bowen’s public legal education efforts through written articles and the firm’s Ask the Lawyer podcast. His commentary helps explain legal issues affecting injured individuals, including motor vehicle accident liability, insurance coverage and the challenges associated with psychological injuries.

Beyond the Practice

Outside the office, Philip enjoys experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen and is an avid science fiction enthusiast.

Selected Articles and Podcast

Car Accidents and Unidentified or Uninsured Drivers
An explanation of the legal options available following an accident involving an uninsured or unidentified driver.

How Do the Courts Determine Who Is at Fault for a Motor Vehicle Accident?
An examination of how liability is assessed following motor vehicle accidents.

Ask the Lawyer: Psychological Injury Claims
An August 2026 discussion with Cynthia Carels about psychological injuries following accidents.

Education

1991- Bachelor of Science (with distinction) – University of Alberta
1994 – Bachelor of Laws – University of Alberta

Bar Admission

1995 – Alberta

Professional Associations

Canadian Bar Association
Edmonton Bar Association
Alberta Civil Trial Lawyers Association

Expertise

Medical Malpractice

Do you have a potential claim for medical malpractice or product liability? We have an efficient and effective in-house team of lawyers who regularly assess malpractice claims and act for plaintiffs in the pursuit of settlements.

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Personal Injury

Weir Bowen can investigate claims on your behalf and represent you in personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death, slip & falls, occupier’s liability, commercial host liability, product liability, subrogated claims, and disability claims.

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INDIGENOUS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The lands on which Edmonton sits and the North Saskatchewan River that runs through it have been the sites of natural abundance, ceremony and culture, travel and rest, relationship building, making, and trading for Indigenous peoples since time immemorial. Edmonton is located within Treaty 6 Territory and within the Metis homelands and Metis Nation of Alberta Region 4. We acknowledge this land as the traditional territories of many First Nations such as the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuline (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot).

Weir Bowen acknowledges the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit who have lived in and cared for these lands for generations. We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us. We make this acknowledgement as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to those whose territory we reside on or are visiting.