Corporate Law

We advise businesses at every stage, from start-ups and family-owned companies to the Canadian operations of international groups. Our corporate practice covers how a business is set up and governed, the agreements it relies on, and the transactions that shape its growth. Our advice is practical and grounded in each client's business, so that clients can operate with confidence in Canada and across borders.

Our services include:

• Business Formation & Structuring - Incorporating federal and Ontario corporations, designing share structures, and helping foreign companies choose between a Canadian subsidiary, branch, or joint venture.
• Corporate Governance & Maintenance - Maintaining minute books, preparing annual resolutions and filings, keeping registers of individuals with significant control, and advising directors and officers on their duties.
• Shareholder, Partnership & Joint Venture Agreements - Drafting and negotiating the agreements that govern relationships among owners, and documenting share issuances and transfers.
• Commercial Contracts - Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating supply, distribution, agency, licensing, services, and confidentiality agreements.
• Mergers & Acquisitions - Advising buyers and sellers on share and asset purchases, from due diligence and transaction documents through to closing.
• Financing & Investment - Advising companies and investors on private placements, angel and venture investments, and shareholder loans.
• Reorganizations & Wind-Ups - Carrying out amalgamations, continuances, internal reorganizations, and dissolutions.
• Employment Matters - Preparing employment and independent contractor agreements and workplace policies, and advising on hiring and terminations.
• Commercial Disputes - Advising and representing clients in contract and shareholder disputes, with an emphasis on practical resolution through negotiation, mediation, or, where necessary, litigation.

Cross-Border Businesses

Many of our clients do business across borders. We help international companies, particularly those from China, establish and run their Canadian operations, and we help Canadian businesses work with partners in China. With team members qualified to practise law in both Canada and China and working in English and Chinese, we explain legal requirements clearly and prepare documents that both sides understand. For trade compliance and foreign investment matters, see International Trade & Investment.

Our team's industry experience spans technology, finance, real estate, healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing. We take a proactive approach to managing risk and improving efficiency, helping clients pursue their business objectives with confidence.