Michael routinely advises on, and devises strategies for, reducing property assessments and thereby taxes through the assessment appeal process. He obtains and reviews the working papers of the provincial assessment authority, MPAC, and analyzes them in comparison with actual property performance data. His successful record on assessment appeals and securing tax refunds for his clients is a product of both his settlement negotiation skills and his advocacy skills in contested hearings before the Assessment Review Board and appeal courts.
In addition to assessment appeals, Michael’s practice encompasses every aspect of property taxation. That includes his rendering advice for, and pursuing of, full or partial tax exemptions and/or tax rebates. It also includes his advice and representation in commercial and industrial lease interpretation disputes, and in the proper allocation of the property tax billing as between landlords and tenants.
Michael is a graduate of the University of Toronto (J.D., 1973) and the University of Manitoba (B.A. Hons. 1970). Called to the Ontario Bar in 1975, he has appeared before tribunals and courts at all levels, including the Assessment Review Board, the Ontario Municipal Board (now Local Planning Appeal Tribunal), the Environmental Appeal Board, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Appeal.
A frequent writer and speaker on property taxation and assessment subjects, Michael has lectured for the Canadian Institute and the Department of Continuing Legal Education of the Law Society of
Ontario. His clients receive regular and timely updates concerning new developments in the field, including changes in legislation and/or policy, and important decisions of the Assessment Review Board and the Courts.
