About

Provided by Torys LLP

Whether on a transaction, discrete tax matter or dispute, we bring sophisticated thinking and creative tax advice that progresses clients’ business objectives.

We know how to help clients avoid the problems that can stall a deal or impede its success. When a transaction is complicated by multijurisdictional cash, operations, financing opportunities and targets, we collaborate with clients to find creative solutions for the situation at hand.

A substantial portion of our work is multijurisdictional. With full-service tax capabilities in our Canadian and New York offices, we have regular exposure to evolving tax structures on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border, naturally facilitating effective cross-border counsel.

We have broad experience in dealing with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and all phases of tax controversy—from the planning and implementation of specific transactions to tax filings, audits, assessments, litigation and appeals.

In the audit process, we help clients develop sound disclosure strategies and marshal compelling advocacy and messaging. We also assist clients in the review of existing transactions and provide advice regarding the likelihood of success on audit. When assessments are issued, we help prepare notices of objection and submissions to relevant government authorities, as well as provide advice for statutory audits and, where necessary, we engage in litigation at all levels of court.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Tax - Nationwide - Canada

1
Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Torys possesses a solid tax team with strong capabilities in the financial services sector. Its Toronto, Montréal and Calgary-based tax lawyers regularly advise on the tax aspects of prominent transactions handled by the firm's standout corporate practice. The firm is also known for its large tax advisory group, including its robust cross-border tax planning expertise bolstered by its New York office. It is additionally well regarded for its strength in tax controversy and litigation.

Work Highlights

  • Torys acted as counsel to Homesteaders Life Company in its CAD1.2 billion acquisition of Park Lawn Corporation with Birch Hill Equity Partners.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

Jerald M Wortsman
1
Jerald M Wortsman
Head of Tax
1
Band 1
Jerald Wortsman enjoys an outstanding reputation in the Canadian tax market. He is particularly noted for his strong relationships across the financial services sector, from high-street banks to a host of private investors, including REITs and pension funds. Based in Toronto, he is the head of the firm's tax practice.

Jerald is the gold standard. He is incredibly technically knowledgeable. He is also practical and commercial and will always find a creative solution to get the deal done.

Jerald is super smart and understands our business very well. He is one of our most trusted advisors.

Jerald can speak to a very wide range of technical points. He is a very smart guy.

Jerald is unparalleled.

Jerald is a great practitioner with in-depth knowledge. He is attentive, effectively listens and pays close attention to detail. He is also very responsive.

Martha MacDonald
1
Martha MacDonald
1
Band 1
Martha MacDonald handles a range of tax disputes, including those relating to transfer pricing, for clients including financial institutions. She leads the firm's tax controversy practice from Toronto.

Martha is very strategic, understands how to run and argue a case and can explain tax issues to a judge.

Martha is highly respected and one of the most knowledgeable people in the tax bar in Canada.

Martha Macdonald is one of the top tax litigators in Canada. She gives absolutely first rate litigation strategy advice.

The level of insight she provides and ability to communicate very complicated topics is really fantastic. She is an exceptional talent.

I really enjoy working with Martha. She gives decisive, practical and effective advice.

Corrado Cardarelli
2
Corrado Cardarelli
2
Band 2
Corrado Cardarelli provides counsel on tax structures and reorganisations, as well as commercial transactions. He is based in Toronto.

Corrado is a true asset to our organisation.

Corrado is a strong tax practitioner.

Gwen Watson
3
Gwen Watson
3
Band 3
Gwen Watson impresses for her role as lead tax adviser on a number of transformative agreements, including acquisitions and corporate reorganisations. She is based in Toronto.

Gwen is very easy to work with and is very practical.

Gwen is very knowledge of various tax matters and has immense knowledge within her tax practice area. She takes the time to explain matters and is very responsive in addressing queries.

Gwen has been a very helpful resource for our organisation.

Gwen Watson is outstanding.

Craig Maurice
4
Craig Maurice
4
Band 4
Calgary-based Craig Maurice acts as a tax adviser across a range of different transactions, including acquisitions, investments and project finance, as well as corporate restructuring.

Craig provides excellent knowledge and advice.

John J Tobin
4
John J Tobin
4
Band 4
Toronto-based John Tobin advises on acquisitions, reorganisations and securities transactions, as well as contentious mandates concerning the interpretation of tax regulations.

John Tobin is super smart and practical

John is very practical.

John is a wonderful partner to work with.

Andrew Wong
5
Andrew Wong
5
Band 5
Andrew Wong regularly leads on tax aspects of complex transactions. He is experienced in handling deals such as M&A.

Ranked Lawyers at
Torys LLP

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

Nationwide - Canada

Tax

Jerald M Wortsman
1
Jerald M Wortsman
Head of Tax
1
Band 1
Corrado Cardarelli
2
Corrado Cardarelli
2
Band 2
Gwen Watson
3
Gwen Watson
3
Band 3
Craig Maurice
4
Craig Maurice
4
Band 4
John J Tobin
4
John J Tobin
4
Band 4
Andrew Wong
5
Andrew Wong
5
Band 5
Tax: Litigation

Martha MacDonald
1
Martha MacDonald
1
Band 1