Corporate Law

Learn More About Our Areas of Practice

Administrative Law:

In Canada, administrative law provides a framework that governs the relationship between government and businesses in Canada. Whether you are handling a matter related to employment or workers’ compensation, building permits or trade, administrative law ensures that you are following the regulations set out in Canada’s constitution. If an administrative law matter is impacting your business, a corporate lawyer can work with you to determine your options and will represent you at administrative tribunals by presenting your case and fighting for your rights as a business.

Commercial Matters:

In Canada, corporate lawyers support their clients in navigating a range of commercial legal matters that impact their business. Commercial matters cover a broad range of situations, including corporate governance, competition law, intellectual property, securities, insolvency, and business practices. Since each commercial matter will vary based on the specifics of the case, it is important you work with an experienced corporate lawyer who will be able to provide tailored support and guidance on the legal steps required to protect your business or settle disputes.

Corporate Governance:

Corporate Governance refers to the rules and regulations that govern how a company is controlled. Corporate governance policies and procedures support an organization’s board of directors in managing the various stakeholder groups a company has, such as shareholders, management, customers, suppliers, government and other interest groups. A lawyer assists businesses in implementing best practices related to corporate governance that will mitigate risk and support the strategic goals of the business. They review financial information, support internal investigations, plan succession, and support the planning and administration of shareholder rights and meetings. Corporate governance is an increasingly important element of public corporations in Canada, and it is essential to work with a lawyer who has experience supporting large organizations in these matters.

Corporate Immigration:

If you wish to move to Canada to start a business or invest in Canada, there are a number of options available to you. A corporate lawyer will help you assess the skills you have, the assets you may invest, and the programs you might apply for. Understanding the rights and obligations you must uphold for various corporate immigration programs is important. Speaking with a corporate lawyer to ensure you have not only the immigration paperwork in place but also the business licensing you require once operating in Canada is essential.

Corporate Services:

Depending on your business goals, there are a variety of reasons you may need to work with a corporate lawyer. Whether you are looking to take your company public through an IPO, begin a joint venture, move forward with a merger and acquisition, or restructure your company, a corporate lawyer is necessary to ensure your interests are protected and that you have the necessary contracts and legal documents in place.

Estate Planning and Wealth Management:

Whether you are a business owner, senior executive of a public company, a not-for-profit, or a family-held business, estate planning and wealth management are important functions that ensure the future of your business is secure. Corporate lawyers work with their clients to plan and advise on various estate and wealth management legal strategies. They collaborate with financial professionals, advisors, and investors to provide planning related to wills, trusts, powers of attorney, insurance, and other related services.

Mergers and Acquisitions:

In Canada, the Competition Bureau reviews mergers and acquisitions to ensure they are compliant with the laws set out by the federal government. Prior to starting the M&A process, meeting with a lawyer will help you understand how the details of your situation are impacted by Canadian laws; a lawyer will work with you to assemble the necessary paperwork, documentation, and details to have the deal approved. They will also assist in creating all contracts and will advocate for your best interests in all negotiations.

Not-for-Profit Charities:

In Canada, not-for-profit charities are regulated by the rules and regulations set out in the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act (CNCA). Although there are many similarities between running a for-profit business and a not-for-profit, there are a series of different regulations that have been put in place with the goal of enabling not-for-profit corporations to operate efficiently. However, these structures and policies can be confusing; a lawyer can work with you to ensure you have the framework in place to do the good work you are setting out to do according to Federal rules and regulations.

Shareholder Relations:

When a company goes public, they enter the world of shareholder relations. A lawyer’s role is to help clients prepare and negotiate shareholder documents, manage the ongoing relationship between the company and shareholder according to applicable laws, and, when necessary, work to settle shareholder disputes that arise. Working with a lawyer can help you manage shareholder relations efficiently and effectively.

Tax:

Corporate tax lawyers work with their clients to provide legal advice, advocacy and support related to compliance and disputes. They will advise on tax requirements and obligations during mergers and acquisitions, asset acquisitions, business activities, and even litigation. Corporate tax lawyers represent their clients before government agencies, tax authorities and courts. They also work with the business’s accountants and financial professionals to ensure the business has the legal documentation in place to protect its assets.