DEPARTMENT PROFILE

Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP

Tax

5 ranked lawyers

Band 1

Canada

Global 2022 View ranking table

chambers review

department information

Ranked Lawyers

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What the team is known for

Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt is renowned for its exceptional tax group, with strength and depth in both tax planning and dispute resolution. Much admired for the breadth of its subject matter and geographical coverage, the firm is particularly well regarded for its litigation expertise as well as advising on big-ticket M&A and transactions. It is also noted for its robust sales tax practice and its work on international taxation and transfer pricing issues. The department's impressive client list includes significant players from a variety of sectors including manufacturing, energy, real estate, technology and financial services.

Strengths

"They are able to articulate arguments comprehensively and effectively," explained one commentator, adding: "They are terrific at showing every minute detail, as well as the bigger picture."

Another said: "The team is the best in the class; they work well together and put the client's needs first."

Work highlights

An Osler team led by Firoz Ahmed acted for IBM on the creation of a new public company out of the spin-off of its Managed Infrastructure Services business.

Notable practitioners

Al Meghji in Toronto is widely exalted as a luminary in the field of tax disputes. He has represented numerous blue-chip clients, including standout names in natural resources, financial services and retail.
"Al Meghji assesses tax litigation risk masterfully; he is an exceptional communicator and can break down complex issues." "He easily articulated the strategy and coordinated the Osler team."

Edward Rowe is a highly experienced lawyer who regularly advises clients on tax disputes and tax audits. Based in Calgary, he is particularly active working for clients in the energy and agricultural industries.

Firoz Ahmed advises on the full gamut of matters in the tax space, including high-value acquisitions, in addition to complex corporate restructuring mandates. He is based in Toronto.

Mark Brender provides tax counsel to his clients on various transactions and investments. He stands out for his role in high-profile M&A deals, including the acquisition of distressed assets. Brender leads the tax group in Montréal.

Patrick Marley co-heads the tax group in Toronto and is particularly noted for his expertise in international transactions, as well as advising on major corporate listings and commercial agreements.
"He has exceptional technical skill and is an excellent communicator." "My experience with Patrick Marley was great; he is pragmatic and very responsive."

Department Information

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Overview

The Osler Tax Group is consistently recognized as a leading provider of tax law services. From offices in Toronto, Montréal, Calgary, Ottawa, Vancouver and New York, Osler’s tax lawyers operate as an integrated unit and in partnership with clients to develop sophisticated solutions to their most complex and important taxation issues. With close to 60 tax professionals, they are able to offer clients expert advice on a broad range of taxation matters of importance to their business interests. In addition, they are pleased to share the benefit of Osler’s extensive experience through Osler Updates, seminars, webinars and other client tailored programs.

The team offers leading expertise and have extensive experience in each of the following areas of corporate tax practice: M&A, Corporate reorganizations and restructurings, tax advisory services, tax controversy and litigation, transfer pricing, Canada/U.S. cross-border tax planning and indirect tax.