General Business Law - Atlantic Canada
What the Team is Known For
Stewart McKelvey is a distinguished law firm which is well regarded throughout Atlantic Canada and beyond for its expertise in corporate finance, M&A, reorganisations, lending, banking, securities and insolvency. It is noted for its wide-ranging client base featuring national and international corporates, emerging companies and family-owned enterprises across various industries, including energy, environment, aquaculture and construction. The firm also offers extensive experience of REITs and PPP deals. Its first-class labour and employment law team services both public and private sector employers; its lawyers are sought after to advise on wrongful dismissal claims and human rights complaints as well as workplace safety and workers' compensation issues. It also inspires praise for its experience of labour board proceedings, collective bargaining and grievance arbitrations as well as its advice in relation to pensions and employee benefits. Additionally, the firm excels in commercial litigation, insurance defence and tax dispute resolution. It stands out as a significant player for oil and gas and marine transportation disputes, regularly advising on insurance and admiralty claims. Its lawyers also frequently handle class actions, arbitrations and matters relating to professional regulation. Its six offices are spread across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Notable Practitioners
Halifax-based Brian Johnston KC is widely considered by sources to be a market leader in the field of employment law. He is particularly skilled in labour relations, collective agreements, and drug and alcohol workplace policy. He most notably acts for clients in construction, healthcare and financial services. "Brian provides first-class legal advice and guidance. He is a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he always responds and reacts to our needs in a timely manner."
Saint John-based Clarence Bennett KC is a highly esteemed management-side labour, employment and human rights lawyer. He represents a broad range of clients stemming from the education, manufacturing and construction sectors.
Operating from Stewart McKelvey's Halifax office, Lawrence Stordy KC has substantial experience advising on M&A deals. He acts for clients hailing from a wide range of sectors on transactional matters as well as advisory mandates relating to boards and shareholders.
Robert Grant KC is a top lawyer in Atlantic Canada for all types of dispute resolution. Based in Halifax, he possesses a wealth of experience advocating both commercial and administrative cases, with notable expertise in energy, environment and project-related matters.
Halifax-based Christine Pound advises on M&A, shareholder agreements and financing structures. Her clients originate from a variety of sectors including construction, environmental services and banking.
Colm St. Roch Seviour KC possesses considerable expertise in disputes relating to environmental and natural resources issues. He is based in the firm's St. John's office.
Grant Machum is lauded for his labour law expertise. He is based in Stewart McKelvey's Halifax office and advises on the full gamut of employment issues, including terminations and wrongful dismissals, performance management, workplace human rights and labour relations.
St. John's-based lawyer Maureen Ryan KC advises on a broad range of M&A and commercial transactions. She assists various clients with matters arising within the construction, technology, fisheries,and oil and gas sectors. "Maureen has good corporate and commercial abilities."
Rebecca Saturley KC is Stewart McKelvey's managing partner in Halifax. She is renowned for representing clients in human rights and occupational health and safety matters. She was appointed a KC in 2024.
Rory Rogers KC is an experienced litigator who is based in Halifax. He often works on high-level corporate disputes and professional liability cases.
Twila Reid is based in St. John's and has a robust labour and employment practice. Her expertise covers negotiating collective bargaining agreements and litigating harassment cases, among other matters.
Based in Halifax, Nancy Rubin KC is a well-established litigator. She assists with disputes pertaining to planning and environmental, energy and media law.
Shelley Wood is a Halifax-based partner who is known for her expertise in commercial litigation. She often handles insurance and liability disputes.