R. John Butler, KC

John is counsel with Bryan & Company and has more than 55 years of experience in complex problem solving and strategizing, negotiating, and effecting successful business and legal solutions.

Specifically, John has extensive experience navigating the organization and governance of business structures, including agreements for shareholders, partnerships, limited partnerships, and joint ventures. He also advises on most operational aspects of business enterprises, including employment matters, contracts, real and personal property leasing, and products and service warranties. His regular interactions with family-owned enterprises allow him to assist with business succession planning, including resolving organizational and operational disputes.

John assists clients with bank financing, including negotiating and executing loan arrangements for lenders and borrowers concerning real estate lending transactions, loan restructuring, and mortgage enforcement. He is adept at navigating the development of commercial and residential land parcels, including office buildings, major shopping centers, industrial properties, and residential developments, as well as assisting both landlords and tenants on commercial leasing matters involving office, industrial, retail, and ground leases.

John has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in Canada^TM in Real Estate Law and by Lexpert as a leading lawyer in property development. He has also received the highest possible peer rating of AV® in the Martindale-Hubbell Directory.

John has a sterling reputation for community involvement, evidenced by his participation in the following organizations:

• Edmonton Police Commission (former chair);
• Telus Corporation (former director, sat on and chaired various committees);
• Liquor Stores N.A. Ltd. (former director, sat on and chaired various committees);
• Samson Cree Nation Investment Trust (former vice-chair);
• Enoch River Cree Casino (former chair);
• Edmonton Eskimos Football Club (former chair);
• Canadian Football League board of governors (former chair);
• Western Canada Commercial Arbitration Society (member); and
• Investment Committee of the University of Alberta, Board of Governors (member).