Top 10 Transformative Tax Lawyers in Canada to Follow in 2023

When it comes to keeping your business financially secure and compliant, the role of a tax lawyer is indispensable. Navigating the complex web of tax laws is not something you should do alone. In Canada, there are several eminent tax attorneys who are renowned for their expertise, proficiency and hands-on experience on diverse tax-related matters. Here, we present you with a stellar ten who have made a significant mark in their field.

These individuals represent the crème de la crème of the tax industry. They have carved niche for themselves, bearing the torch in their respective field of specialization, from cross border transactions to commercial agreements and pension structuring. Apart from their remarkable professional achievements, they are also key figures in their firms, often entrusted with significant positions of leadership.

While the choice of a tax lawyer is often influenced by their track record, you may also consider their geographical location and the industry they are focused on. Here is a brief on each of these impressive individuals:

Ash Gupta

Proffering his services at Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP, Ash Gupta frequently assists clients with tax structuring and planning. Situated in Toronto, his proficiency in cross-border investment agreements comes highly appreciated.

Gregory M Johnson

Hailing from Bennett Jones LLP and based in Calgary, Gregory Johnson adeptly advises clients on a variety of tax matters. His practice focusses on commercial transactions, with a particular interest in cross-border and offshore restructuring mandates.

Darcy Moch KC

Also a member of Bennett Jones LLP, Darcy Moch KC is widely sought out for his counsel on corporate tax and commercial transactions. Based in Calgary, he co-chairs the firm’s tax and estates department.

Elie Roth

Elie Roth delivers his expertise from Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, steering significant commercial transactions, in sectors including pharmaceuticals and tech. Based in Toronto, he is also well respected for his private wealth law practice.

Kathleen V Penny

Kathleen Penny is an experienced tax practitioner working with Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP. With her practice based in Toronto, Kathleen possesses expertise across several areas including M&A, pension structuring, investment funds and securitisation.

Gabrielle M R Richards

Located in Toronto and a part of McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Gabrielle Richards is proficient with the tax considerations of both domestic and cross-border transactions, particularly finance deals and syndicated lending.

Alex Pankratz

Alex Pankratz, despite having no firm website, comes highly recommended for his expertise in tax planning and transactional matters. He carries over 20 years of experience in the tax field.

Mitchell Sherman

A part of Goodmans LLP, Mitchell Sherman is regarded as a leading transactional tax lawyer. He notably advises on a remarkable number of high-profile, cross-border deals.

Paul Stepak

Positioned at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP and head of firm’s tax group, Paul Stepak is particularly well known for advising clients on tax planning and M&A transactions. He operates from Toronto.

Raj Juneja

Raj Juneja, who is the head of the national tax practice at McCarthy Tétrault LLP, is highly acclaimed for his advice on the tax aspects of commercial transactions. Being based in Toronto, he has an excellent roster of clients in the energy and mining sectors.

In conclusion, when looking for tax advisory services in Canada, these are some of the names you want to consider. Their track record, experience and the faith reposed in them by their clients make them some of the most promising tax professionals to engage with.