Railway operators are in the front line. Their actions mean the difference between a good customer experience and a bad one. Efficient operation of key public services is important for sustained economic growth. It has political relevance, at local and national levels, significant media attention and public interest. Reputations can be won or lost based on operational performance.

Rail operations are complex. They require careful planning and management at all levels. There are technical and commercial challenges as well as the need to grow and accommodate ridership, manage capacity, and perform reliably, punctually and safely. Efficiency of operation is key—doing the same for less. 

Whether you are an existing operator looking to expand or diversify into new markets, or a supplier or investor, you need legal support that really understands the operational aspects of a railway. For decades our lawyers have built up a wealth of experience, with a particular emphasis on supporting clients in their operations. Dentons does not concentrate solely on strategic, market-design work; we truly value the support we give to our clients in their day-to-day operations. Some of our people have been seconded to the rail industry or drawn from it with active legal experience. This allows us to give you informed advice, knowing what works on the ground and what doesn’t. This sets us apart. 

Don’t just take our word for it. As a client said of us in Chambers 2012: “…the work is absolutely excellent, and makes our life much easier—they anticipate what we need.”

Recognition

Chambers USA Guide Recognizes Dentons With Excellent 2025 Rankings

June 5, 2025

Dentons is pleased to share its performance in the 2025 edition of Chambers USA. The Firm recorded notable milestones in both its lawyer and practice rankings, including two lawyers ranked as Star Individuals—a category for outstanding practitioners—and nine new practice rankings.

News and Events

Recent Press Releases

CN and Watco reach agreement on sale of rail lines in Northern Ontario, Wisconsin and Michigan

April 7, 2021

CN and Watco announced recently that they have reached an agreement for the sale of non-core lines and assets on the Soo subdivision (approximately 250 miles of track) that runs from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to Oba, Ontario and approximately 650 miles of branch lines of Wisconsin Central Ltd. in Wisconsin and Michigan.