TORONTO - As part of the 2009 Budget Implementation Act, the Canadian government has enacted the biggest changes to the Competition Act in decades.

These changes could affect the legality of thousands of agreements that are in place or contemplated; examples include joint ventures, R&D agreements, non-competes and dual distribution agreements. The transition period for amending your agreements is short.

Moreover, stakes for non-compliance have gone up, with maximum criminal penalties of up to 14 years in jail and/or $25 million in fines, new administrative monetary penalties of up to $15 million and greater risk of class actions.

The changes also increase the potential cost and timelines of all reviewable mergers - just as the economic conditions are forcing a wave of consolidations.

The Canadian Institute's conference on Canada's NewCompetition Act
June 22 & 23, 2009
Marriott Bloor Yorkville, Toronto
Co-Chairs: Chris Hersh, Partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP Madeleine Renaud, Partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP, Montreal

This conference has been accredited by the Law Society of Upper Canada towards the professional development requirement for certification:

- Criminal Law 7 hours
- Corporate & Commercial Law 10.5 hours
- Civil Litigation 10.5 hours

Don't miss your chance to get the latest information. Register today at 1-877-927-7936, or online at www.CanadianInstitute.com/CNCA.