Michael Blatchford

Michael Blatchford, steering the helm as the leader of the national practice group for charities and tax-exempt organizations, dedicates his expertise to a wide spectrum of voluntary sector entities. His work spans advising charities, non-profits, clubs, social enterprises, and more, guiding them through the maze of their operational and governance challenges. His advice ensures these organizations not only pursue their missions with zeal but also stay within the boundaries of regulatory frameworks.

Blatchford's portfolio of clients is as diverse as it is impressive, encompassing entities across healthcare, education, social services, arts and culture, environmental initiatives, and sports. His counsel extends to professional bodies, associations, religious groups, and faith-based organizations, covering key areas like governance, fundraising, tax issues, and legal compliance. His role involves interfacing with regulators, notably the Canada Revenue Agency, to safeguard the interests of his clients. He is particularly adept at navigating the complexities of international operations for charities, advising on effective strategies for global outreach.

His knack for facilitating meetings, especially those teetering on the edge of contention, is unparalleled. Utilizing tools like Robert’s Rules of Order, Blatchford shines as a parliamentarian, meeting advisor, and independent chair, ensuring smooth proceedings in the most turbulent of times.

Blatchford also channels his talents toward philanthropy, assisting donors in crafting impactful charitable gifts, showcasing a commitment to fostering philanthropic endeavors.

His academic credentials, with a Bachelor of Arts from Simon Fraser University followed by an LL.B. from the University of British Columbia, underscore his profound legal acumen. Since his admission to the British Columbia bar in 2009, Blatchford has left indelible marks across the legal landscape.

His career is dotted with notable engagements, from drafting governance documents for non-profits and First Nations organizations to advising on the intricacies of operating charities abroad. He has facilitated mergers, creating synergies among charities with aligned missions, and guided charities in spinning off business ventures, ensuring their commercial activities align with their charitable goals.

Recognition of Blatchford's prowess comes from prestigious corners, with accolades including listings in the Best Lawyers in Canada across several categories, from Charities/Non-Profit Law to Corporate Governance Practice, and honors from Chambers Canada and the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory.

His involvement in professional communities further illustrates his commitment to the legal and philanthropic sectors. He actively participates in the Canadian Bar Association and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners, co-chairing sections that resonate with his expertise.

Michael Blatchford’s career is a testament to his dedication to the voluntary sector, his clients’ success, and his unwavering commitment to the principles of effective governance and philanthropy.