Government & Regulatory

North & Company LLP takes pride in helping municipal clients ensure the duties and obligations of those in the community are enforced. Our team can provide services including but not limited to legislative interpretation and statutory compliance, advising on and preparing enforcement related documents, and municipal prosecutions. Our experience working with various municipalities has helped our firm develop the skills necessary to be and effective municipal advisor and partner. Feel free to contact us if you want to find out how we can work together to achieve your municipal goals.

Municipalities have an ever growing need to develop, acquire, sell, and transfer land. As families, business, and communities grow so does the need for various interests in land. Leases, licenses, right of way agreements, easements, expropriations, and purchase and sale agreements are only some of the many commercial topics that North & Company has had experience with. The clients we have had the pleasure of representing over the past 40+ years know it’s important to include their trusted legal advisor early in commercial transactions to help catch things that may otherwise be missed. 

If a person or corporation feels they are being taxed unfairly they have the right to appeal their tax assessment to the Assessment Review Board. North & Company has experience representing municipalities, corporations, and individuals in these appeal processes. We can assist you in understanding the strength and validity of an appeal so you understand whether you are likely to be successful or not. If the claim is valid we have a dedicated litigation department to help represent you in the appeal. If you think you are being taxed unfairly or wish to start this appeal process please feel free to reach out to our team. 

A municipality has the authority to acquire an interest in land to achieve a municipal goal or purpose. Sometimes this means taking something that the current owner does not wish to give up. Having a legal advisor with a strong understanding of a municipality’s authority to take land and of the fair and proper way of acquiring it is important to ensure the steady and unhindered growth of the community. Our team at North & Company appreciates that these processes can be sensitive. We strive to complete these necessary processes with respect and dignity, aiming for win-win situations between the municipality, previous land owner, and community. 

When an individual would like to start to develop a piece of property but the development or subdivision authority rejects the proposed development, the next step is to file an appeal with the Subdivision & Development Appeal Board. This is a quasi-judicial board meaning it is typically not lawyers who sit on the board. It can be a huge advantage having an advisor who understands how the appeal process works and the relevant legislation. North & Company is happy to work with both members of the Appeal board and those making appeals. 

Unclear drafting of bylaws can lead to misunderstanding and difficulties in enforcement. Ensuring the wording of bylaws is clear, concise, and understandable by all community members helps reduce time and cost for the Municipality. Having a legal advisor help you draft the language can have huge cost savings down the road. Our experience with various municipal clients gives us a valuable perspective on what works and what does not. If you would like help drafting clear and cost saving bylaws feel free to reach out to the North & Company team.