Disputes
In this lower for longer oil and gas price environment, business deals and relationships are rockier and more difficult to navigate. As we negotiate deals, potential partners (and those who no longer wish to be partners) are carefully watching both the top and bottom lines and everything in-between – from finances and the profit/loss to environmental liabilities to regulatory compliance.
Given the inverse relationship between low commodity prices and the frequency with which disputes and issues arise as between partners and parties in our sector, the oil and gas sector is seeing a massive increase in disputes. There is a heightened need for today’s disputes to be carefully managed and navigated to ensure they don’t cripple your company.
Working with Mike when disputes arise, safeguards your time, effort and money. He understands the game, sees the win, and is able to navigate the field to ensure your best possible outcome.
Litigation
While not usually the preferred route to solving disputes, sometimes litigation (or at least steps to be taken to prepare for a trial) is necessary either as a path towards a negotiated settlement or trial of the issue itself. Mike serves as counsel to clients both at trial and appeal on energy related matters, from freehold lease continuation and rights of first refusal disputes to international injunctions.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a variation on the litigation theme. It comes with a different referee but is played on the same field. Mike acts as counsel to clients in disputes over relatively small dollar amounts and in multi-billion dollar energy arbitrations.
Expert evidence and testimony
Mike is often retained by law firms to tactically assist counsel in a trial by providing expert reports and evidence. Mike is qualified as an expert on a wide range of energy matters before courts in Canada and the United States. Having literally written the books on Canadian oil and gas law, Mike’s opinions, reports and testimony have shown to be very persuasive at trial and on appeal.