Expropriation

Aird & Berlis has built a reputation as a trusted leader in expropriation law across Ontario. Backed by one of Canada’s largest and most respected Municipal & Land Use Planning groups, our team provides strategic and practical advice in a highly specialized area of law where public objectives intersect with private property rights. Whether initiating a taking or responding to one, our team provides clarity, confidence and precision at every step.

Expropriation is a complex and often contentious process, involving significant legal, financial and emotional considerations. We act for both expropriating authorities and private landowners across Ontario, offering strategic guidance through every stage of the expropriation process. Our team is engaged from project inception, supporting municipalities and public agencies with environmental assessments, statutory documentation, compensation negotiations and tribunal advocacy. Members of our team act for Metrolinx on several large takings for new subway stations on the various new subway lines as well as regarding the expropriation for and the establishment of new Transit Oriented Communities. We also represent a wide range of private claimants, including homeowners, developers and commercial tenants, helping them navigate complex takings and secure fair compensation. With deep experience on both sides of the table, we bring unmatched insight, precision and credibility to this highly specialized area of law.

Our Expropriation Group, led by members of our Municipal & Planning practice, brings together seasoned lawyers with deep expertise in municipal, real estate, litigation, environmental, Indigenous and tax law, ensuring a comprehensive, 360-degree approach to every file. Uniquely positioned to serve both expropriating authorities and private landowner claimants, we provide fast, accurate advice on determining the potential highest and best use of an expropriated property. Every member of our team has significant land use planning experience, enabling timely analysis of applicable planning instruments that influence property valuation. This capability is further strengthened by access to four in-house land use planners who can quickly identify relevant planning instruments for any property in Ontario, and four in-house conveyancers who review title instruments existing at the time of expropriation—factors that can significantly impact market value.

Our lawyers are recognized thought leaders in the field. Notably, Christopher Williams, Andrea Skinner and Matthew Helfand are co-authors of Expropriation Law in Ontario, 1st and 2nd Editions (LexisNexis), a leading legal book that shapes how the law is understood and applied across the province.

Whether you’re advancing a public project or defending your property rights, Aird & Berlis brings the legal depth, strategic foresight and proven experience to help you move forward with confidence. We don’t just understand expropriation law, we help define it.