Jim Stanley joined the Truro office of Burchell MacDougall LLP in 1981, after a chance meeting with one of the partners of the firm lead to a job offer.
Originally from Halifax, Jim studied Economics at Dalhousie University before attending Dal Law School. His practice is primarily in the area of corporate, commercial and tax law, franchise law as well as estate planning. He prefers a solicitor’s practice to litigation. He admits he is very fortunate to have a loyal base of long‑term clients.
“Business law is constantly evolving and has many facets‑-be it establishing, financing, corporate reorganizations or buying and selling businesses.” Business succession planning is a major issue for many of his clients.
Jim is a former President and Campaign Chair for the United Way of Colchester County and a former national board member of United Way/Centraide Canada. He has been involved in many local charities and local organizations, as well as Bar Society Committees.
Jim served as a managing partner of the firm for almost 20 years.
When he’s not navigating his way through a business takeover, he’s usually at the helm of his sailboat. He and his wife enjoy travelling, a lot of it being to visit children and grandchildren. Another recent pursuit is learning to play tenor saxophone in a local band ……but he says, ”I’m not giving up my day job!"
James Stanley was recognized by The Best Lawyers™ in Canada 2025 for his practice in Corporate Law and Trusts & Estates.
Professional Qualifications & Education
Nova Scotia Bar Admission (1978)
Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) - Dalhousie University (1977)
Bachelor of Arts - Dalhousie University (1974)
Professional Associations & Membership in Community Organizations
Member, Nova Scotia Barristers' Society
Former President and Past Campaign Chair, United Way of Colchester
Former Member, Board of Directors, United Way/Centraide Canada
Former Member, Board of Directors, Truro Development Corporation
Former President and Member, Truro School Bands Auxiliary
Member, Fellowship Lodge A.F. & A.M. (Truro)
Planned Giving Committee, Colchester Regional Hospital Foundation
