Michael Barrett

Michael's career as a corporate and securities law attorney is marked by an impressive array of contributions to the field, particularly in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), corporate finance, and corporate governance. His legal journey includes notable stints at premier Canadian law firms, with his current tenure at Blakes showcasing his breadth of expertise and commitment to legal excellence.

In his practice, Michael has been a pivotal figure for both publicly traded and private entities, guiding them through the complexities of domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, as well as orchestrating debt and equity securities offerings. His proficiency also extends to advising on restructuring transactions, private equity financings, and ensuring compliance with continuous disclosure obligations and stock exchange policies. This wide-ranging experience underscores his adaptability and deep understanding of the corporate legal landscape.

One standout aspect of Michael's career is his involvement in significant corporate finance transactions. He played a key role in TC Energy Corporation's C$1.8 billion bought deal offering of common shares, a strategic move in connection with the construction of the Southeast Gateway Pipeline in Mexico. His expertise facilitated TransCanada PipeLines Limited's MJDS public offering of US$1.25-billion principal amount of senior notes, among other high-value transactions. These engagements highlight Michael's ability to navigate the intricacies of corporate finance with precision and strategic foresight.

Michael's contributions to mergers and acquisitions are equally noteworthy. He has represented clients in transformative deals, such as Orca Gold Inc.'s acquisition by Perseus Mining Limited and Jupiter Resources Inc.'s acquisition by Tourmaline Oil Corp. His advisory role in Canadian Natural Resources Limited's C$12.74 billion acquisition of a significant interest in the Athabasca Oil Sands Project illustrates his capacity to handle transactions of national significance.

Beyond transactional work, Michael's dedication to the legal community is evident through his leadership role with G.R.I.T. Calgary Society, where he applies his skills towards fostering inclusion and support within the community. This involvement reflects his commitment to leveraging his legal expertise for broader societal benefits.

Furthermore, Michael's thought leadership in the field is showcased through his co-authorship of publications on pressing issues such as climate-related disclosure rules, indicating his engagement with evolving legal challenges and his contribution to the discourse on environmental and corporate governance.

Recognized as a rising star in mergers and acquisitions and corporate law by Best Lawyers in Canada, Michael's trajectory is a testament to his expertise, leadership, and commitment to his clients and the legal profession. His blend of high-profile transactional experience and community involvement positions him as a distinguished figure in the field of corporate and securities law.