Nicola is a problem-solver with a defined focus on contract disputes arising within construction projects, employment relationships, and business endeavours.
Recognizing that every dispute is different, Nicola starts with a big picture perspective, winnowing out trivialities and emotion to focus on the crux of each dispute. Her strategic approach to dispute management begins with providing timely advice and taking measured steps to avoid litigation. Unperturbed by conflict, Nicola does not hesitate to escalate when necessary to achieve the best available outcome for her clients.
Nicola has appeared before all levels of court in Nova Scotia as well as various administrative tribunals. She has also represented clients in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes including mediations and arbitrations.
In the corporate/commercial realm, Nicola advises businesses and individuals on shareholder and partnership disputes, commercial lease disputes, and breach of contract and professional negligence claims arising out of the breakdown of business and financial relationships. She also works closely with the rest of Pink Larkin’s construction litigation team in advising owners, contractors, and consultants on a wide range of issues including construction liens, delay claims, and property/infrastructure deficiencies.
In her employment law practice, Nicola guides employers and employees through the termination of employment relationships with a particular focus on the negotiation of severance packages for senior management, c-suite and long-serving employees. She also has a keen interest in assisting her clients navigate and/or enforce non-competition and non-solicitation agreements.
Nicola is currently the Chair of the Canadian Bar Association’s award-winning Administrative Law Section in Nova Scotia. Nicola formerly served as a national Practice Leader in The Advocates’ Society’s Construction Law and Employment Law Practice Groups.
Nicola sits on the Board of Directors for the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia.
As an advocate for access to justice, Nicola coordinates Pink Larkin’s partnership with the IWK Family Legal Health Program. She regularly volunteers with the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia and reachAbility Association.
