Public Policy & Government Relations

Prudent political judgment, informed by experience and an understanding of how decision-makers approach issues, can transform risks from evolving economic, social and political conditions into opportunities. The Aird & Berlis Public Policy and Government Relations Group combines expertise in law, politics and public administration with strong relationships to help clients pursue these opportunities and achieve success.

While many lawyers simply advise on how laws and regulations affect their clients, meaningful solutions are often achieved by shaping the rules. In a dynamic geopolitical environment, as governments increasingly prioritize economic competitiveness, there are real opportunities to shape the frameworks in which businesses operate.

We provide strategic and legal support to businesses, industry associations, public institutions and investors striving to engage effectively with government. Our team is comprised of lawyers who have served in elected and appointed roles, as well as those with international, defence and security affairs experience. We know the decision-makers and can provide robust contextual analysis in areas of political or regulatory uncertainty. More importantly, we understand what matters to those decision-makers and how they think. We use this insight to help clients align their goals with public interest priorities, and by doing so, navigate Canada’s complex political landscape.

Members of our group work closely with clients at every stage of the policy lifecycle, offering proactive guidance on advocacy, compliance and strategic positioning. Our strong relationships with officials, staff and stakeholders allow clients to engage meaningfully and stand out through informed and effective public policy advocacy.

Our team includes proven expertise in communications, with members who have crafted messaging campaigns for governments and managed crisis communications under the most intense glare of media and public scrutiny. This integration of adept communications skills with legally sound public policy advocacy ability sets us apart from the rest.

The Aird & Berlis Public Policy and Government Relations Group helps clients participate in policy development, adapt to emerging changes and build relationships with decision-makers. Our multidisciplinary team draws on expertise in municipal law, energy, infrastructure, corporate governance, litigation and Indigenous matters to deliver integrated strategies that address critical policy and regulatory issues.

Our core services include:

• Policy and Regulatory Strategy: We help clients shape policy positions that align with business priorities and government objectives. Our team develops advocacy strategies to shape legislation and regulation, reducing risk and creating economic growth opportunities.
• Government Relations and Stakeholder Engagement: Our team builds and sustains relationships with decision-makers and stakeholders at all levels of government. This includes advising on engagement strategies and facilitating meaningful dialogue. Our approach helps clients contribute to favourable outcomes and strengthen their outcomes in the public policy arena.
• Municipal, Land Use and Infrastructure: We guide clients through planning approvals, zoning processes and development agreements to advance projects efficiently. Our team is uniquely positioned to assist with decisions at the provincial level, which has become increasingly important in recent years. We also assist with navigating infrastructure requirements and regulatory obligations.
• Energy, Environment and Indigenous Matters: We provide strategic advice on energy transition, environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives. With unprecedented provincial initiatives to grow electrical generation and transmission, we assist clients in managing impacts and finding opportunity. We also advise on Indigenous governance and consultation processes to foster respectful and legally sound relationships.
• Dispute Resolution and Administrative Proceedings: We represent clients before tribunals and administrative bodies on matters involving regulatory approvals, enforcement actions and policy disputes. Our team works to resolve issues efficiently through negotiation, mediation or litigation when necessary, protecting client interests while minimizing disruption to operations.