MLT Aikins Bolsters Litigation Capabilities with Addition of Michael O’Brien in Calgary
In a strategic move to enhance its litigation prowess, MLT Aikins has welcomed Michael O’Brien as the newest partner in its Calgary office’s litigation (advocacy) group. This addition underscores the firm’s commitment to strengthening its corporate and commercial dispute resolution capabilities across Western Canada.
O’Brien brings a wealth of experience in handling complex legal matters, with a focus on corporate and commercial disputes. His expertise spans critical areas such as energy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property, making him a valuable asset to the firm’s growing litigation team.
Throughout his career, O’Brien has demonstrated exceptional proficiency as lead counsel in high-profile cases. He has successfully navigated intricate, multi-party proceedings and adeptly managed mediations, arbitrations, and court litigation. His extensive experience includes appearances before all levels of court in Alberta, the Federal Court, the Land & Property Rights Tribunal, and the Alberta Human Rights Commission.
O’Brien’s practice also encompasses a wide range of specialized areas, including class actions, data breach litigation, and significant real property disputes. His ability to handle complex and high-stakes cases has solidified his reputation as a skilled litigator in Western Canada.
Some of his most notable cases include serving as lead counsel for Suncor Energy Inc. in a high-profile matter involving a $1 billion transaction. He also played a key role as co-counsel in defending a $12 billion patent claim and successfully defended class actions exceeding $100 million in damages for Canadian and U.S. financial institutions tied to alleged Ponzi schemes. Additionally, he secured a mandatory injunction against a statutory corporation in a prominent case.
The addition of Michael O’Brien to MLT Aikins’ Calgary office is a significant step in the firm’s strategy to deepen its litigation capabilities. His expertise in complex dispute resolution aligns perfectly with the firm’s goals of providing robust legal services to clients across Western Canada.
Why This Move Matters
The addition of Michael O’Brien as a partner in MLT Aikins’ Calgary office is a strategic move that significantly enhances the firm’s litigation capabilities. His expertise in corporate and commercial disputes, particularly in high-stakes areas such as energy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property, aligns perfectly with the firm’s goal of providing comprehensive legal services to clients across Western Canada.
O’Brien’s track record of handling complex, multi-party proceedings and his success in mediations, arbitrations, and court litigation bring a new layer of depth to MLT Aikins’ advocacy group. His ability to navigate disputes involving class actions, data breaches, and real property litigation further strengthens the firm’s ability to address a wide range of legal challenges faced by its clients.
A Strategic Addition to MLT Aikins’ Growing Team
MLT Aikins has been actively expanding its litigation practice in recent years, and O’Brien’s addition is a testament to the firm’s commitment to building a robust team of skilled litigators. His experience in defending high-profile cases, including a $12 billion patent claim and class actions exceeding $100 million, underscores his ability to handle large-scale, intricate disputes.
O’Brien’s success in securing a mandatory injunction against a statutory corporation highlights his ability to deliver results in challenging and high-profile matters. This skill set is particularly valuable as MLT Aikins continues to serve clients in industries such as energy and technology, where complex legal disputes are increasingly common.
By bolstering its litigation bench in Calgary, MLT Aikins is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for specialized legal expertise in Western Canada. O’Brien’s arrival not only enhances the firm’s capabilities but also reinforces its reputation as a go-to legal partner for businesses navigating complex corporate and commercial disputes.
Conclusion
The addition of Michael O’Brien to MLT Aikins’ Calgary office is a significant step forward for the firm’s litigation practice. His extensive experience in handling high-stakes corporate and commercial disputes, particularly in energy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property, positions MLT Aikins as a leading legal partner for businesses in Western Canada. O’Brien’s proven track record in complex litigation, including multi-party proceedings and high-profile cases, further enhances the firm’s ability to deliver results in challenging legal matters. As MLT Aikins continues to expand its litigation capabilities, O’Brien’s expertise will play a pivotal role in addressing the evolving legal needs of its clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What areas of expertise does Michael O’Brien bring to MLT Aikins?
Michael O’Brien specializes in corporate and commercial disputes, with particular expertise in energy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property. His experience includes handling complex, high-stakes cases such as class actions, data breaches, and real property litigation.
-
Why is O’Brien’s addition significant for MLT Aikins?
O’Brien’s addition strengthens MLT Aikins’ litigation bench, particularly in Calgary, and aligns with the firm’s goal of providing comprehensive legal services to clients across Western Canada. His ability to navigate intricate disputes complements the firm’s growing expertise in industries like energy and technology.
-
What notable cases has Michael O’Brien handled?
O’Brien has successfully defended a $12 billion patent claim and managed class actions exceeding $100 million. He also secured a mandatory injunction against a statutory corporation, showcasing his ability to deliver results in high-profile and complex matters.
-
How does this move benefit MLT Aikins’ clients?
By adding O’Brien to its team, MLT Aikins enhances its ability to address a wide range of legal challenges, particularly in industries facing increasing complexity, such as energy and technology. Clients will benefit from his deep expertise and proven success in high-stakes disputes.
-
What does this addition mean for MLT Aikins’ future?
O’Brien’s arrival underscores MLT Aikins’ commitment to building a robust litigation practice. This move positions the firm as a go-to legal partner for businesses navigating complex corporate and commercial disputes in Western Canada.


