M.W. McCachen

Mike, a seasoned trial attorney with over three decades under his belt, specializes in the energy sector and carries the badge of a qualified arbitrator. His legal battles span the gamut from courtroom dramas to international arbitrations and regulatory debates, always with a sharp focus on the intricacies of energy law.

At the heart of Mike's approach lies a keen sensitivity to his clients' business objectives. This, coupled with strategic planning and relentless advocacy, has placed him at the forefront of several landmark legal battles. Whether it's public litigation or closed-door arbitration, Mike's presence as lead counsel signals a formidable defense of his clients' interests.

His prowess was recently on display in the successful representation of a global energy conglomerate. The team, led by Mike, navigated through an intricate UNCITRAL arbitration triggered by geopolitical upheaval, securing a recovery running into the hundreds of millions for their client.

Another notable victory came in 2019 when Mike overturned a governmental decision, vindicating a claim for over C$100 million in royalty costs. His legal acumen also shone through in 2018, where he championed an oilsands client's rights to cost recovery, resulting in a multi-billion dollar triumph.

Currently, Mike's expertise is being levered in a significant tax litigation case, showcasing his versatile command over various aspects of energy law, from political risk insurance to climate change litigation.

Mike's legal journey is marked by a series of successes in complex scenarios, including pipeline regulations, offshore exploration, and the nuanced dynamics of joint venture projects. His regulatory prowess is equally notable, having represented clients in a slew of policymaking and dispute resolution hearings.

His contributions extend beyond the courtroom to constitutional matters, including Indigenous rights, where his advocacy skills have fostered meaningful dialogues between businesses and governments.

Recognition of Mike's legal excellence comes from prestigious bodies such as The Best Lawyers in Canada, Who’s Who Legal, and Chambers Canada, among others. These accolades speak volumes of his standing as a top-tier litigator and arbitrator in the corporate and commercial litigation landscape.

Beyond his legal victories, Mike's commitment to the legal community and charitable causes underscores his multifaceted personality. His thought leadership, particularly in climate change and environmental litigation, further cements his role as a visionary in legal circles.

With a career that spans pivotal cases and impactful legal discourse, Mike's legacy is that of a lawyer who not only understands the letter of the law but also its spirit, especially within the ever-evolving energy sector.