We are pleased to announce that Jeffrey Read has joined our Business Law Group as Associate Counsel. Jeffrey brings his vast experience in corporate and securities law, where advises local, national, and international companies and securities dealers on their Canadian activities. He also acts for large BC-based public companies and private equity groups and has…

Business owners are scrambling to understand the numerous and evolving support programs offered by the Federal and BC Provincial governments during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help make sense of it all, Associate Cameron Funnell has created an at-a-glance ‘COVID-19 Benefits for Businesses’ cheat sheet that clearly breaks down the various programs, the criteria for each,…

Many Canadians are facing financial uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which can lead to issues arising between banks and their customers. Many banks have taken measures to accommodate individuals and businesses in these challenging times by creating special programs, some of which are outlined here. Despite measures being taken by banks, individuals…

The U.S. President signed an Executive Order on April 22nd, 2020 suspending the processing of U.S. permanent resident applications made by those outside of the United States for 60 days, with the possibility of extensions. While the ban has some exemptions, it represents a major reversing of U.S. policy on migration to that country, with…

Anand Athiviraham, Senior Associate in our Business Law Group, joins Marco Russo, Wealth Management Specialist, for a webinar presentation on Wednesday, April 22, that reviews the benefits provided by the Canadian Government as a response to COVID-19, and the resulting legal implications. They will address how to deal with employee layoffs, how the virus has…

The novel coronavirus has disrupted British Columbia’s economy and the province may not fully recover from the effects of social distancing for months to come. For many business owners, working from home is either not possible with social distancing orders, or it provides limited (if any) economic benefits. Businesses are facing massive difficulties in trying…

The spread of COVID-19 is having an unprecedented impact on our society. This impact will be felt for months and years to come. In light of the current circumstances, many businesses, organizations, and individuals are struggling to meet their obligations and are looking for guidance on how they can resolve any resulting business and contractual…

Due to COVID-19, limitation periods for commencing a family law action, proceeding, claim or appeal in B.C. are temporarily suspended, however, it is still important to be aware of key dates after which your rights to make a claim may expire, including for spousal support and property claims, CPP, and in some cases child support.…

On March 27, 2020, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Canada would be creating a 75% wage subsidy for all employers who can demonstrate a reduction in revenue of 30% or more due to COVID-19.  This benefit has since been named the “Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy” or “CEWS”. On April 1, 2020, Ministers Bill Morneau, Mary…

The global pandemic has forced workplaces around the world to adapt very quickly to the current crisis. It is critical that during this unprecedented event, employers set out written expectations for their employees. Whether it is meeting the challenge of working from home, or setting guidelines for employees who continue to attend on-site as permitted…