Torys
The practice at Torys handles a variety of contentious and non-contentious matters, including M&A transactions involving Indigenous communities, commercial arrangements, energy and infrastructure projects, disputes, land claims and restructurings. The group is co-led from Toronto by Valerie Helbronner, who focuses on the involvement of Indigenous communities in infrastructure projects; and litigator John Terry. Former Supreme Court Justice and senior counsel Frank Iacobucci is noted for his participation in contentious work. Associate Brianne Paulin majors on due diligence for Indigenous and environmental matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘An excellent team to support negotiations and balanced advice. They have done excellent work in promoting negotiations and settlements.’
‘Frank Iacobucci and John Terry are unusual in that they have a great level of trust and respect both with government and with Indigenous people. Mr. Iacobucci in particular is one of the few outside counsel able to move the Federal and provincial mandates on matters.’
‘The Torys Indigenous Law team has excellent industry knowledge and takes time to understand our business and ensure that their advice is focused. The advice that we receive is very strategic and thoughtful.’
‘The team is a pleasure to work with. Valerie Helbronner is very personable and highly regarded by the NWMO. Brianne Paulin has great First Nations experience and is a rising star. John Terry is very experienced and provides pragmatic advice.’
Key clients
- Enbridge
- Vermilion Energy
- Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs/Sand Hills Casino Resort LP
- Evolugen
- Qikiqtani Inuit Association and Baffinland Iron Mines Corp.
- First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada
- Ontario First Nations Limited Partnership
- Government of Canada/Government of Ontario/12 Robinson Superior First Nations
Work highlights
- Acted for Enbridge in its sale of an 11.57% non-operating interest in seven of its operating pipelines in the Athabasca region to Athabasca Indigenous Investments.
- Represented the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and Sand Hills Casino Resort LP in a claim against the Province of Manitoba and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation.
- Advised QIA and Baffinland Iron Mines in their discussions concerning the Mary River Project in Baffin Island, Nunavut.
Lawyers
Rising stars