Blake, Cassels & Graydon has seen strategic growth in the western Canada market. Adding well recognised practitioners from firms in the area, as well as increasing junior staff numbers in these offices, has proven successful for the firm, whose client ...
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Blake, Cassels & Graydon has seen strategic growth in the western Canada market. Adding well recognised practitioners from firms in the area, as well as increasing junior staff numbers in these offices, has proven successful for the firm, whose client list is impressive. The firm is focused on internal knowledge sharing, with weekly conferences held with the entire tax group, showcasing junior members' research into topics. David Spiro moved on this year, but it has an outstanding team of tax advisers nonetheless. Janice McCart and Bill Maclagan are recommended for transfer pricing while Ronald Richler, Kathleen Penny, Paul Tamaki, Bruce Sinclair, Ron Mar and Robert Kopstein are all highlighted as strong. One competitor said: "the entire group are very very capable advisers." In the last 12 months the firm has been extremely active, advising Suncor Energy in its strategic merger with Petro-Canada in a deal worth about C$44 billion ($40.8 billion) and also assisting Vestar Capital Partners as it acquired a North America laundry business from Unilever. The firm's strong tax controversy group has also been extremely busy. Edmund Gill is highly praised by clients. "He comes up with creative ideas and strategies for our business. He also helps me understand various technical issues as they pertain to our business," said one. Other clients speak of the excellent service received in general: "in terms of advice, Blakes bring practical business solutions along with sound tax advice. In terms of service, Blakes make you feel as if you were their only client."
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