Corporate and Business Lawyers in Toronto

Formation, Governance & Compliance for Ontario Businesses

Building and operating a successful business requires more than a good idea and hard work — it requires experienced legal guidance at every stage. From initial formation through growth, acquisitions, and succession planning, businesses face critical legal decisions that shape their future. At Ken Wise & Associates, we provide comprehensive corporate and business law services to help Toronto-area businesses navigate this complex landscape. With over 40 years of experience advising businesses on corporate matters, Ken Wise brings practical experience combined with deep knowledge of Ontario and federal corporate law.

Business Formation and Structure

We advise on optimal business structure, whether incorporation under Ontario law or federal jurisdiction. The choice between sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and other structures has significant tax, liability, and operational implications. We guide clients through the incorporation process, ensuring proper documentation, bylaw adoption, and regulatory compliance from inception.

Shareholder Agreements

For businesses with multiple shareholders, shareholder agreements are essential. These agreements address ownership percentages, capital contributions, profit distribution, decision-making authority, dispute resolution, and exit mechanisms. Well-drafted shareholder agreements prevent costly disputes and provide clarity when issues arise.

Partnership Agreements

Partnerships require carefully drafted agreements addressing capital contributions, profit and loss allocation, management authority, dispute resolution, and buyout provisions. Partnership disputes can be particularly contentious — clear contractual terms help prevent and resolve conflicts.

Directors’ Duties and Governance

Directors of Ontario corporations owe fiduciary duties and duties of care to the corporation and its shareholders. We advise directors on their legal obligations, including duties of loyalty, care, and disclosure. Proper corporate governance protects both the corporation and individual directors from liability.

Corporate Compliance

Ongoing compliance with corporate law requirements is essential. This includes maintaining proper minute books, holding required meetings, adopting necessary resolutions, filing regulatory documents, and maintaining corporate records. We advise on compliance requirements and help clients implement systems to remain in good standing.

Business Purchase and Sale

Buying or selling a business involves careful negotiation, due diligence, deal structuring, and documentation. We represent both buyers and sellers in asset sales, share sales, and merger transactions, protecting client interests and ensuring all legal requirements are satisfied.

Commercial Contracts

Businesses rely on numerous commercial contracts for operations — supply agreements, service contracts, distribution agreements, licensing arrangements, and more. We draft and negotiate commercial contracts to clearly allocate risk, establish performance standards, and provide remedies for breach.

Corporate Reorganizations

Businesses often need to reorganize structures for tax efficiency, operational improvements, or strategic reasons. We handle amalgamations, continuances, share restructuring, and other reorganizations while managing tax implications and regulatory requirements.

Succession Planning

Whether transitioning to new management, facilitating owner exits, or planning for long-term succession, we help businesses develop comprehensive succession strategies that protect the business, satisfy all parties, and achieve strategic objectives. Proper succession planning helps prevent disruption and preserve continuity in the business.

Strategic Business Counsel

We view our role as ongoing business counsel, not just transaction lawyers. We understand your business objectives and advise strategically on legal issues affecting those objectives. Whether you are a startup, an established business, or an enterprise planning significant changes, Ken Wise & Associates provides the corporate law experience you need. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your business.

Speak With Ken Wise

Ken Wise has practised law in Ontario for more than 40 years and appears before all levels of court in the province, as well as before administrative tribunals. The firm acts for clients throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, and works remotely with clients across Ontario.

We offer a free introductory email consultation. Send a short summary of your situation to info@kenwiseandassociates.ca and Ken will tell you, at no charge, whether he can help. You can also call (647) 288-5531.

The information on this page is general information only and is not legal advice. Contacting the firm does not create a solicitor-client relationship.