In response to market demands and shifting priorities, the mining industry continues to evolve, both in Canada and internationally. Mining companies that want to keep pace with ongoing change – or better yet, lead the charge – must ensure they understand the intricacies of the multiple aspects of mining development, as well as the associated implications for their bottom line.
Accessing and using capital effectively remains a priority. To expand existing operations or take advantage of new opportunities, it’s critical for mining companies to have a thorough understanding of the financing options available and the most efficacious ways of structuring them.
On another front, engaging with community and Aboriginal stakeholders and addressing ever-changing environmental and regulatory concerns are vital components of mining exploration and development, and must be approached with acumen, insight and skill.
The Mining Group at Osler has the depth of experience and breadth of knowledge to advise domestic and international mining companies on these issues and any other matters they face through every phase of the business cycle – from initial exploration to the establishment of large-scale operations. Our lawyers have acted for mining companies of all sizes, specialties and stages of development, and can offer the legal expertise required to support and guide clients so they can achieve their operational and strategic business objectives efficiently and cost-effectively.
Osler’s unique one-firm approach gives clients access to our knowledge and expertise across a wide range of services that intersect with natural resource ventures. We offer advice and service in project finance, solicited and unsolicited M&A transactions, capital markets, employment & labour, and pensions & benefits issues, joint ventures and strategic alliances, commercial arrangements, mining disclosure, taxation issues and structuring, mineral and surface rights, financings and investments, construction and infrastructure matters, environmental and Aboriginal matters, dispute resolution and litigation.
Digging deeper to meet client needs
Top mining companies from around the world regularly seek out the counsel and advice of Osler practitioners to help them overcome challenges, resolve their issues and meet their business needs – from corporate finance to regulatory matters to labour relations. Osler lawyers have acted as lead counsel on a number of substantial mining M&A transactions, making them well-positioned to advise on the various facets of such deals. In addition, they can share the specialized insight they have gleaned through hostile bid defence mandates that have resulted in some of the most accretive value results.
When accessing capital, clients need to know the most appropriate course of action to take – from private financings through IPO to the most substantial follow-on financing transactions – and this will change depending on the situation. Osler’s team regularly provides direction in corporate financings, such as
- financing activities in equity and debt markets globally
- structuring financing plans and processes
- leading multi-jurisdictional financing teams on their behalf
- commercial arrangements, including royalty and exploration & development agreements
- securities law and stock exchange compliance and reporting
The regulatory regime governing the industry is complex. Osler’s Mining Group can help clients navigate the evolving landscape and ensure that they understand and are complying with the applicable requirements, including those related to mining disclosure (National Instrument 43-101), mineral and surface rights, and environmental standards. Our lawyers also have recognized expertise in Aboriginal law and can advise on the obligation to consult with First Nations affected by mining exploration and the need to respect treaty rights.
In addition to the regulatory hurdles that must be considered when establishing new mining projects, companies often face challenges related to the lack of infrastructure and the shortage of skilled labour. Osler’s team can lend its infrastructure and construction experience to those projects and our employment lawyers can help companies address any labour relations issues that arise.
Osler practitioners also provide mining companies with guidance on financing projects as well as advice respecting taxation issues and the optimal way of structuring their operations.
Finally, when companies run into issues related to exploration and development that they cannot resolve on their own, they can turn to Osler’s dispute resolution and litigation experts for direction and guidance. Our team has extensive experience in international arbitration, class action proceedings, and other dispute resolution matters.