Michael Manhas

Michael Manhas stands as a beacon in the legal field, especially in litigation, administrative law, and regulatory matters with a concentrated focus on environmental, energy, natural resources, economic regulation, and Indigenous law. His courtroom prowess extends across British Columbia and Alberta, where he represents clients in challenging and high-profile cases. Michael's expertise isn't confined to the courtroom; he's also a stalwart in administrative proceedings, navigating the complex landscapes of various commissions and boards such as the British Columbia and Alberta Utilities Commissions, the Environmental Appeal Board, and several others.

His litigation skills are particularly notable in environmental and Indigenous law, where he tackles complex disputes for industrial clients. From contaminated site cases to defending against environmental tort claims and regulatory prosecutions, Michael's adeptness in these areas is unparalleled. His work in tribunal advocacy further showcases his ability to defend environmental permits, contest administrative orders, and represent clients in critical market design and rates proceedings across various sectors including electricity, oil, and gas.

Michael's advisory role extends to guiding clients through the intricacies of regulatory investigations, permit compliance, and transactional liability risks. His counsel is invaluable to public bodies grappling with division of powers issues and extends to matters of forestry, competition, telecommunications, and expropriation.

His academic background, with a J.D. from the University of British Columbia, an M.B.A. from Vancouver Island University, and a B.Sc. from the University of British Columbia, underpins his professional expertise. Since his admission to the Bar in British Columbia in 2013, Michael has left an indelible mark on the legal profession.

His representative experiences are as diverse as his skill set, involving Indigenous law, environmental law, litigation and disputes, power, and utilities, especially within the energy sector. He has represented a multinational metals and mining corporation in groundbreaking environmental tort claims based on Indigenous rights and defended a major Canadian port against provincial regulatory charges, questioning the scope of provincial authority over federal entities. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in a landmark case for an electricity customer group, successfully challenging a utility's $1.2 billion IT services contracts application.

Michael Manhas's career is a testament to his versatility, depth of knowledge, and unwavering commitment to his clients, making him a distinguished figure in the legal landscape.