McCarthy Tétrault’s environmental law team is frequently sought after by a diverse roster of government entities, utilities, insurers and domestic and multinational corporations. The sizeable national practice maintains strong platforms across the country, with well-staffed teams in all four of Canada’s key markets. In Vancouver, Nicholas Hughes handles a mix of contentious and advisory work, with an emphasis on the transport, natural resources, construction and heavy industry sectors. Cindy Vaillancourt splits her time between Montreal and Quebec City and is noted for project development, permitting processes and due diligence-related matters, among others. Calgary-based Kimberly Howard contributes particular experience in energy-related issues and co-heads the department together with Hughes and Vaillancourt. Other key contacts include litigator Una Radoja in Vancouver and Selina Lee-Andersen, who returned to the Vancouver office in June 2024 from Miller Thomson.

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Key clients

  • Canadian National Railway Company
  • Clean Harbors Canada
  • Summit Industrial Income REIT
  • Paper Excellence Group
  • Hydro-Québec
  • US Ecology
  • Lightening Grid Québec
  • Shell Canada
  • Peace River Hydro Partners
  • West Fraser Timber Co

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Nicholas Hughes, Kimberly Howard, Cindy Vaillancourt

Other key lawyers

Una Radoja, Selina Lee-Andersen, Dominique Amyot-Bilodeau, Laura Weingarden