About James

Jim is a board member and partner in our Sydney office with a corporate and business practice and a particular focus on energy and natural resources projects. He has represented various private and public corporations on matters of reorganization, mergers and acquisitions, amalgamation, financing and general tax-related matters. He also serves as external general counsel for a number of corporate clients.

Jim also provides strategic advice to various Indigenous communities on managing complex commercial projects, including advice on negotiations, agreements and financing. Most recently this is included acting on behalf of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw communities on the acquisition of a 50% interest in Clearwater Seafoods Inc. in 2021.

Jim has developed a focus on energy law through his continuing representation of clients involved in Nova Scotia’s offshore exploration. This representation included the development of Nova Scotia Offshore inaugural Royalty regime and related regulations. Through his practice, Jim regularly appears before various boards, agencies and commissions. He currently serves as general counsel to Efficiency Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia’s energy efficiency utility.

Outside of work, you can find Jim on or near the water, sailing and salmon fishing.

Awards & Recognitions

  • Recommended by The Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory for Aboriginal Law (2024)

Appointments & Community Involvement

  • Board Member, Verschuren Centre
  • Board Member, National Gallery of Canada Foundation

Education

  • L.L.B., Dalhousie University (1992)
  • B.B.A. (Hons), (CPA;CA 1989), St. Francis Xavier University (1986)

Bar Admissions

  • Nova Scotia (1993)

Languages

  • English