In McMillian v. Her Majesty the Queen, the Federal Court of Appeal clarified the burden of proof in tax cases. We believed the decision was important and, in August 2012, we posted a blog article about the FCA’s decision. Recently, The Bottom Line (Canada’s Accounting and Finance Professionals newspaper) published an article on McMillian and asked for our reaction. We are flattered by the author’s decision to include our interpretation in the article entitled Court affirms onus of proof on taxpayer.
Quebecor v. HMK underscores that CRA challenges to loss consolidation hinge on interpretation over mechanics and on whether the outcome aligns with Parliament’s intent.
A clear view into how courts choose between competing case theories in tax disputes, and why the business’s real decision environment often shapes the interpretation and outcome.
Wuswig v. HMK confirms that under GAAR, economic substance and credible purpose, not mechanical compliance, determine whether corporate losses will stand.
Analysis of the Husky Energy withholding dispute and how courts chose among competing case theories by aligning structure, operations, and cross-border reporting.
CRA’s audit architecture drives reassessments that behave like capital market shocks inside private companies. This article examines the structural forces at play and how executives maintain control once CRA formalizes its position.
A Tax Court ruling highlights how enhanced costs, weak CRA assumptions, and procedural precision shape the financial outcomes of high-stakes tax disputes — and why independent oversight changes both incentives and results.
Peter Aprile is a very hands on and practical tax lawyer who is very focused and diligent. He is a pleasure to work with.
- Susan Farina, Tax Partner, Price Waterhouse Coopers
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I’m a Senior VP with an accounting and finance background. I’ve worked with lawyers and large law firms. I was referred to Counter to fix a tax dispute. It is very rare to encounter lawyers that combine expertise, dedication, and a businesslike approach to litigation. I have no hesitation in recommending Counter.
- David Cuddy, Senior Vice-President, Finance & Business Operations, CFL
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Counter Tax Litigators has worked with Fuller Landau to resolve several of our clients’ tax disputes. Counter delivers superior communication.
- Laura Couvrette, CPA, CA, Fuller Landau LLP
What Clients Say
I spent a good part of my career dealing with attorneys on innumerable matters, and found Peter to be extremely competent, open-minded and exceptionally honest. I would not hesitate to use Peter again, and highly recommend the team at Counter Tax Litigators.
- Mark Ram, Retired CEO
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Counter’s representation on our behalf was well informed, professional and efficient, which ultimately resulted in a highly satisfactory decision in all aspects.
- Klaus W. Reif, President, Reif Estate Winery
What Clients Say
I was amazed with the results. They went above and beyond, and I would recommend Counter to any person or business with a significant tax dispute.
For nearly 20 years, our leadership in Canadian tax controversy and litigation has earned consistent recognition for expertise, results, and client trust.