Substance Law provides practical and strategic business law services to companies across Canada. We advise entrepreneurs, startups, growing businesses, and established companies on corporate, commercial, and transactional matters that support growth while managing legal risk.
From incorporation to expansion, restructuring, and exit, our business lawyers provide clear, business-focused legal advice tailored to your objectives.
Business Law Services
Business Formation & Structuring
We help clients start and structure their businesses effectively, including:
- Incorporation and business registration
- Corporate structuring and reorganization
- Shareholder and partnership arrangements
- Founders’ agreements
- Governance and ownership planning
Proper structuring at the outset can prevent disputes and support long-term growth.
Corporate Governance & Ongoing Advisory
We advise businesses on day-to-day legal matters, including:
- Shareholder and director obligations
- Corporate records and compliance
- Shareholder meetings and resolutions
- Risk management and legal strategy
- Minute book rebuilds and reviews
Ongoing legal support helps businesses stay compliant and make informed decisions.
Commercial Agreements & Transactions
We assist with a wide range of business transactions, including:
- Commercial agreements
- Strategic partnerships and joint ventures
- Asset and share purchases
- Business sales and acquisitions
- Corporate restructurings
Our focus is on clear documentation and practical risk allocation.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
We advise buyers and sellers throughout the M&A process, including:
- Transaction structuring
- Legal due diligence
- Negotiation of purchase agreements
- Closing and post-closing matters
We help clients navigate complex transactions efficiently and strategically.
Shareholder & Partnership Matters
We assist with:
- Shareholder agreements
- Partnership agreements
- Ownership disputes
- Buy-sell provisions
- Exit and succession planning
Clear agreements reduce conflict and protect business continuity.
Business Disputes & Risk Management
When disputes arise, we provide strategic advice on:
- Business and shareholder disputes
- Contractual disagreements
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Negotiation and dispute resolution options
Our goal is to resolve issues efficiently while protecting your commercial interests.
Corporate Compliance & Regulatory Strategy
We advise businesses on compliance matters that affect operations, growth, and transactions, including:
- Corporate and regulatory compliance
- Licensing and approval considerations
- Risk management strategies
- Regulatory impact on transactions
Why Choose Substance Law as Your Business Lawyer?
- Business-focused legal advice
- Experience across a wide range of industries
- Practical, strategic solutions
- Clear communication and responsive service
- Support for businesses at all stages of growth
Work With a Business Lawyer in Canada
Whether you are starting a business, expanding operations, negotiating a transaction, or planning an exit, Substance Law provides trusted legal guidance tailored to your goals.
Contact us today to speak with a Business Lawyer in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Lawyers in Canada
What does a business lawyer do?
A business lawyer advises companies on legal matters related to starting, operating, growing, and selling a business. This includes incorporation, contracts, corporate governance, transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and risk management.
When should I hire a business lawyer?
You should hire a business lawyer when starting a business, entering significant agreements, restructuring ownership, raising capital, buying or selling a business, or when legal risks or disputes arise. Early legal advice helps prevent costly issues later.
Do startups need a business lawyer?
Yes. Startups benefit from legal advice on incorporation, shareholder agreements, equity structure, contracts, and compliance. Proper legal foundations help startups scale and avoid disputes with founders, investors, and partners.
Can a business lawyer help with buying or selling a business?
Yes. A business lawyer assists with structuring the transaction, conducting legal due diligence, negotiating purchase agreements, managing risk, and closing the transaction in both asset and share purchases.
What is the difference between a business lawyer and a corporate lawyer?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both advise on business-related legal matters, though business lawyers may focus more broadly on commercial operations, contracts, and strategy, while corporate lawyers may focus more on corporate structure and transactions.
Can a business lawyer draft and review contracts?
Yes. Business lawyers regularly draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts, including service agreements, shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, and other business-related contracts.
Do business lawyers handle shareholder disputes?
Yes. Business lawyers assist with shareholder disputes by reviewing agreements, advising on rights and obligations, negotiating resolutions, and providing guidance on dispute resolution or litigation options.
How much does a business lawyer cost in Canada?
The cost depends on the complexity of the matter and the services required. Business lawyers may charge hourly rates or flat fees for certain services. A cost estimate is typically provided after an initial consultation.
Do you work with small businesses or only large companies?
Business lawyers work with companies of all sizes, including startups, small and medium-sized businesses, and established enterprises across a wide range of industries.
Can a business lawyer provide ongoing legal support?
Yes. Many businesses engage a business lawyer for ongoing legal advisory services to assist with contracts, compliance, governance, risk management, and strategic decision-making.
