With a longstanding reputation for litigation and dispute resolution in British Columbia, Nathanson, Schachter & Thompson continues to be sought out for advise on real estate and property disputes, securities cases and contract disputes. The group receives key support from Irwin Nathanson KC on large contractual and property disputes, and Stephen Schachter KC on class actions and professional negligence. James MacInnis KC is an authority on construction disputes and mining claims, whilst Karen Carteri, FCIArb. stands out for her work in complex shareholder and partnership disputes. Emily Hansen and James Parker were promoted to partner in January 2025, whilst Julia Lawn, who is now a Justice at the BC Supreme Court, and Peter Senkpiel KC left the firm in March 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Emily Hansen always exhibits a great deal of professionalism, attention to detail, and strategic insight. If a client, or potential client, approaches me with a matter that may be destined for litigation, I never hesitate to refer them to Emily. One of her defining attributes which sets her apart from other litigators I have worked with is her ability to tackle complex legal issues and explain these issues to her clients in a clear, concise, and reassuring manner.
‘The firm of NST operates in a very professional and courteous manner when interacting via telephone, email, video conferences or in person. Their team is comprised of knowledgeable, practical and "common sense" lawyers. Having lawyers with varied backgrounds and experience provides clients with novel answers/options to difficult questions.'
‘They valued my time, my priorities and showed a genuine desire to find practical solutions. Law is not a one-size fits all, and this firm whole-heartedly embraces and delivers a hands-on and effective approach.’
‘Kayla Strong exceeded my expectations in every way. Her timely response to communications, and her ability to quickly distill issues was a huge asset. As a lawyer myself, I was very impressed with the quality of her work and her efficiency. Her written advocacy skills provide a firm footing for her effective advocacy. It is obvious that she is respected by many judges for her intellect, work product, trustworthiness and professionalism.'
‘Karen Carteri understands the client's needs and has the expertise to execute on those needs.’
‘Julia Lockhart is one of the sharpest litigators in Vancouver. She is extremely bright and shows excellent judgment. She is this firm's secret weapon.’
Key clients
- Graham Construction/Gracorp
- Martini Group of Companies
- Intracorp Homes
- Tudor Gold Corp.
- FortisBC Holdings Inc.
- Rogers Communications Inc.
- The Law Society of British Columbia
- Beedie Development Group
- Canadian Forest Products Ltd.
- Interfor Corporation
- Norbord Inc. (now part of West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd)
- Taseko Mines Ltd.
Work highlights
Acting for Beedie Development LP and Kingsgate Property Ltd. in a dispute with the Vancouver School Board over the rent payable for a third ten year renewal term under a lease for the lands on which the Kingsgate Mall is located.
Acting as counsel for Intracorp Projects Ltd. as development management and Terrapoint Developments as investor/limited partner in a downtown Vancouver development project dispute worth over $100m.
Acting for Canadian Forest Products Ltd. in an arbitration and a related ongoing civil claim for damages in excess of $10m relating to the closure of Canfor’s Mackenzie sawmill.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Other key lawyers
Irwin Nathanson KC; Stephen Schachter KC; James MacInnis KC; Karen Carteri; Emily Hansen; James Parker; Mark Oulton KC; Julia Lockhart; Kayla Strong