Peterborough Ontario downtown
Real estate, estate planning, and non-profit law in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

5-Star Peterborough Law Firm Serving Our Neighbours Since 1988

Client Reviews

What Our Clients Say

Rated 5.0 on Google from 82 reviews →

Trusted for Generations
“My parents and I have been clients going on a quarter of a century, including Power of Attorney, Wills and Real Estate transactions. They have always looked out for our best interests.”
Albert Harte-Maxwell, Google review
Real Estate
“The transaction involved a difficult seller not meeting deadlines and at times I wondered if I should just back out of the deal, but thanks to Mr. Bussey and his team continuously staying on top of the process… I finally took possession of the house.”
Renata Jasaitis, Google review
Wills & Estates
“Barry Bussey’s knowledge with regards to wills and trusts is exceptional. He assisted my husband and I with our wills when we relocated back to ON. We are completely satisfied with his and the firm’s service.”
Frances Chant, Google review
Powers of Attorney
“Mr. Bussey and his assistant drove to the hospital, met privately with a family member, spent time explaining the Power of Attorney documents and then witnessed the signing… The prompt action from his legal team also provided us support during this stressful time.”
Ruth Gray, Google review
Cottage & Recreational
“Bussey Ainsworth recently handled the legal side of the sale of our cottage. Every aspect of the sale was tirelessly explained to us in non-legalize language. We would definitely recommend them!”
John S, Google review
Charity & Non-Profit
“…it was the best thing that happened, for our church. They are dedicated to working with church groups, offered honest advice and guidance.”
Aubrey Gill, Church Board Chairman, Google review
Clear Communication
“Excellent service, knowledgeable, reliable and honest. Barry and his team are sharp, trustworthy. They communicate clearly! I would strongly recommend them to anyone needing legal counsel.”
Bill Santos, Google review
Lynda Perry, LaVonna Bussey, and Barry Bussey at Bussey Ainsworth

Small. Local. Friendly. Experienced.
And proud of it.


Some things shouldn't change. A handshake should mean something. Your lawyer should know your name. And when you call with a question, a real person should pick up.

We've been doing things this way since 1988, and we have no plans to stop. As Peterborough lawyers, our roots run deep in this community.

Why Choose Bussey Ainsworth?

Barry Bussey and Gary Ainsworth at Bussey Ainsworth, Peterborough

National Experience


Our lead lawyer, Barry Bussey, has argued before the Supreme Court of Canada, earned a PhD in law from the University of Leiden, and published widely on constitutional rights and religious liberty. He brings three decades of experience, and serious scholarship, to a Peterborough law firm built on knowing your name, returning your call, and treating your matter like it matters.

Meet Barry →

Small Town Heart


Gary Ainsworth opened this firm on Sheridan St. in Peterborough in 1988. Almost four decades later, our office is still in the same neighbourhood, with the same values. We know our clients by name. We return calls the same day. We sponsor the Peterborough Singers, not because it’s good marketing, but because we love great music, and we live here too. This is our community, and serving it well is the whole point.

Meet the Team →
Barry Bussey, Peterborough lawyer

A Note from Barry


I've been practising law for over 30 years, and I still love what I do. There's nothing quite like helping a young family close on their first home, or sitting with someone and helping them think through how to take care of the people they love after they're gone.

When I took over this practice from Gary Ainsworth in 2023, I inherited a firm with deep roots in Peterborough. My goal has been simple: keep the things that made it great – the personal touch, the community connection – and bring my own experience and energy to the work.

If you've got a legal question, give us a call at (705) 749-0628. We're always happy to talk.

– Barry W. Bussey B.A., LL.B., M.A., LL.M., M.P.A.C.S., Ph.D.