In this issue - #131 January 29, 2010

In Family Law, the holiday season often brings with it significant stress, confusion and disappointment for families who are experiencing a recent separation; and, even for families that have been separated for some time.

This is the third in my series of articles on First Nations leasing.  In my first article, I discussed Buckshee Leases and some of the risks associated with unregistered leases of first nations lands.  In my second article, I reviewed Indian and Northern Affairs Canada’s (“INAC”) process for reviewing and approving registered leases.  I have also prepared an organizational diagram which illustrates the leasing structure for residential development involving INAC.

In November’s issue of Legal Alert, we provided a brief summary of issues business owners should consider prior to selling their incorporated business.  Our advice included starting the planning process early in order to maximize the value that a third party will place on the business.  Part of that planning should include readying your business for a due diligence review by the purchaser.  A purchaser’s due diligence usually takes place after signing of a letter of intent or purchase agreement, but before the agreement to purchase becomes binding on the purchaser.  Preparing for the due diligence review will ensure that prospective purchasers aren’t scared away by any unexpected issues.

Aggressive CRA Enforcement Activity and Increased International Cooperation Make the Voluntary Disclosures Program An Important Option to Consider
 

One of the factors marking the line between employees and independent contractors has been eligibility for employment insurance benefits (historically, only employees were eligible for EI coverage).  As a result of changes to federal legislation, the line separating employees and contractors just became somewhat more blurry.

Airline tickets. Tuition costs. Meals and entertainment. Hotel rooms. Individually, these expenses don’t add up to much. Collectively, however, fraudulent reimbursement of common expenses accounts for 20% of cash misappropriation workplace fraud cases in Canada.  No free lunch, a new white paper from Grant Thornton can help you understand and avoid some of these adverse consequences.