Our Services

Marine Litigation

If you are looking for a lawyer to represent you at a hearing or to explore your options for litigation or dispute resolution, Sarah can work with you to chart a course that will address your needs. We have experience with the following subjects:

• Ownership disputes

• Actions for debt

• Vessel arrests

• Fisheries defence

• Aquaculture license/lease applications

• Licensing appeals

• Judicial review applications

• Injunctions

• Indigenous fishing rights

• Breach of Charter rights

• Settlement negotiations

Marine Infrastructure & Real Estate

We assist with the acquisition, development, sale, and financing of real estate that has a marine aspect or is used in connection with the marine industry. This may include water lots, wharves, ports, harbours, and related environmental issues (e.g., contamination, inspections, assessment, etc.). We also assist in advocacy and lobbying with respect to the condition of government-owned infrastructure.   

Transactional Support

We provide confidential support to clients buying and selling marine assets such as vessels, licenses, and real estate. We understand that each sale is unique and we work with the parties, brokers, and government agencies to promote efficient, business-focused services. 

Research and Writing

We offer legal research and writing services in relation to marine issues to our commercial and non-profit clients, other law firms, and government agencies. We can present legal information on particular topics of interest virtually, by phone, and in person (e.g., presentation re aquaculture lease application process)

Drafting and Interpretation

At Shiels Marine Legal Services Inc., we draft and review legal documents of all shapes and sizes. Our team of professionals can help turn a handshake agreement into a written contract. We can write an opinion describing legal options for you to present to your board or organization. Additionally, we can also provide feedback or a second opinion on a particular issue. Here is a look at some of the types of documents we can help prepare and advise on:

• Bill of sale

• Marine mortgage

• Purchase and sale agreement

• Legal opinion

• Memo

• Settlement agreement

Other Areas of Practice

We often receive inquiries for notarial services, registering/recording of deeds, criminal law, family law, and wills & estates work. We are happy to notarize documents and we will provide real estate assistance related to marine work. However, we will generally refer residential real estate, criminal, family, and wills & estates work out-of-house. Our team prefers to be consulted on a limited-scope basis on marine-related legal issues as they arise.

Complex Matters

We strive to work collaboratively with our clients and other professionals. If you would like to work with a small firm but have a complex legal matter that may require a bigger team, please let us know. 

Agency Services

We provide general agency services from time to time.  If you are a lawyer or law firm seeking representation by local counsel, please let us know how we can assist you.