Monica Cheng

Monica is a standout figure in the legal landscape of income tax law, where her expertise spans across an impressive spectrum of corporate tax planning. Her advisory role is pivotal in guiding both private and public corporations, as well as private equity funds through the labyrinth of corporate reorganizations, mergers and acquisitions, and financings. Her breadth of knowledge is not confined to domestic matters alone; Monica's proficiency extends globally, tackling international tax challenges in diverse sectors such as oil and gas, renewable energy, technology, infrastructure, and retail.

Her distinguished career includes serving as a sessional instructor at Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Law, where she imparts her knowledge on corporate tax. Monica's influence also extends to guest lectures at prestigious institutions like the University of Calgary, University of Ottawa, and McGill University, showcasing her commitment to education in her field.

Monica's early legal journey was enriched by her role as a clerk for the Tax Court of Canada judges, laying a solid foundation for her career. Before her tenure at Blakes, she honed her skills at a top Canadian tax boutique, further solidifying her expertise in tax law.

Among her notable contributions, Monica has played a crucial role in advising on significant transactions, including Pembina Pipeline Corporation's strategic acquisition of Enbridge Inc.’s assets for C$3.1-billion and its concurrent C$1.1-billion offering. She was instrumental in Suncor Energy's acquisition ventures, including its C$1.468-billion purchase of TotalEnergies EP Canada Ltd. and a C$688-million transaction with Teck Resources Limited for an increased stake in the Fort Hills Project.

Her involvement in advising Imperial Oil Resources Limited and ExxonMobil Canada Ltd. on the sale of their interest in XTO Energy Canada to Whitecap Resources for C$1.9-billion, and Pembina Pipeline Corporation's joint venture with KKR & Co., reflects her adeptness in facilitating major deals in the energy sector.

Monica's recognition as one to watch by Best Lawyers in Canada for 2023 in Tax Law is a testament to her expertise and potential in her field. Her contributions extend beyond legal practice; she is an active member of the Canadian Bar Association, CPTS, Canadian Tax Foundation, and the International Fiscal Association, and has served as the chair of the Canadian Bar Association Taxation Specialists (South).

Moreover, Monica's commitment to her community is evidenced by her role on the board of directors of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, further highlighting her multifaceted contributions to both her profession and community.

Her publications, including insights on green-energy tax incentives and the taxation of corporate reorganizations, underscore her status as a thought leader in tax law. Monica's presentations at various conferences and seminars, such as the Tax Executives Institute, Inc. and CPTS, reflect her ongoing engagement with critical issues in tax law.

Educated at Osgoode Hall Law School and the University of Calgary, Monica's academic background in Taxation Law and her admission to both the Alberta and Ontario Bars in 2014 and 2015, respectively, anchor her professional achievements and her esteemed position in the field of tax law.