François Barette

François Barette is recognized as a leading litigator and tax lawyer. He represents diversified clients including individuals, corporations and trusts both in Canada and internationally. François’ practice extends well beyond tax litigation and he is asked to intervene in a range of civil and administrative matters.

François advises clients on issues concerning federal and provincial income tax, sales tax, goods and services tax, excise tax, payroll taxes and property tax.

François’ expertise in federal and provincial income tax encompasses inter-provincial tax planning arrangements, multi-jurisdictional taxation, retroactive tax legislation, general and specific anti-avoidance rules, and transfer pricing He also has considerable experience in compliance issues, including audits, objections and investigations.

In addition to advising clients, François appears regularly before all levels of courts in tax matters, including the Supreme Court of Canada, and before various administrative tribunals. François has represented major clients (Videotron, Canada Lands Company CLC, Parc Six Flags Montreal, etc.) with respect to challenges of assessments.

The author of many articles, seminars and presentations, François lectured on tax audits and appeals for 14 years at McGill University’s Centre for Continuing Education.

Before joining Fasken, François practised law at another renowned firm and with the tax litigation department of Justice Québec.