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We prepare every case for trial, relentlessly holding defendants, insurance companies, and large corporations accountable. Our commitment to our values has led to numerous precedent setting legal decisions.

We believe there is an unfair imbalance between wealthy corporate defendants and individual plaintiffs. With the right legal team, a courtroom can be the great equalizer.

Judgments

Consortium of Rochon Genova, Thomson Rogers and RHE successful in contested certification for Allergan Silicone Implants and Breast Implant Illness 12/22/2022
Consortium of Rochon Genova, Thomson Rogers and RHE successful in contested certification for Allergan Silicone Implants and Breast Implant Illness
12/22/2022
Kibalian v Allergan Inc., 2022 ONSC 7116

Consortium of Rochon Genova, Thomson Rogers and RHE successful in contested certification for Allergan Silicone Implants and Breast Implant Illness

On December 21, 2022, Justice Morgan of the Ontario Superior Court granted certification of an expanded class proceeding on behalf of all persons who, between May 31, 1999, and May 29, 2019, were implanted in Canada with one or more Biocell textured breast implants and/or silicone breast implants manufactured by Allergan. The Plaintiffs allege that […]

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Health Authority’s Summary Trial Application Dismissed in Tragic Infant Death Case – Charter Damages to Proceed to Trial 11/10/2022
Health Authority’s Summary Trial Application Dismissed in Tragic Infant Death Case – Charter Damages to Proceed to Trial
11/10/2022
Gill v Fraser Health Authority, 2022 BCSC 1553

Health Authority’s Summary Trial Application Dismissed in Tragic Infant Death Case – Charter Damages to Proceed to Trial

Tony Leoni and Jesse Kendall recently argued a ground-breaking case relating to whether a health authority’s inaction can give rise, as a matter of law, to Charter damages. In February 2017, after twice attending the Abbotsford Regional Hospital operated by Fraser Health Authority (“FHA”), three-year old Nimrat Gill tragically died in the emergency department. A […]

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RHE Lawyers and Siskinds LLP successful in establishing BC Court has jurisdiction against Big Tobacco Defendant in JUUL e-Cigarette Class Proceeding 10/21/2022
RHE Lawyers and Siskinds LLP successful in establishing BC Court has jurisdiction against Big Tobacco Defendant in JUUL e-Cigarette Class Proceeding
10/21/2022

RHE Lawyers and Siskinds LLP successful in establishing BC Court has jurisdiction against Big Tobacco Defendant in JUUL e-Cigarette Class Proceeding

Together with co-counsel at Siskinds LLP, RHE lawyers Tony Leoni and Jesse Kendall recently obtained a dismissal of the Defendant Altria’s application to dismiss the proceedings against it in the JUUL e-cigarette class action. Altria, an American corporation, applied for an order dismissing the proceedings against it on the basis that BC courts do not […]

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RHE obtains over $570,000 for hardworking new mom who developed chronic pain, anxiety, and depression after two car accidents 10/19/2022
RHE obtains over $570,000 for hardworking new mom who developed chronic pain, anxiety, and depression after two car accidents
10/19/2022
Bolognese v. Phan, 2022 BCSC 1734

RHE obtains over $570,000 for hardworking new mom who developed chronic pain, anxiety, and depression after two car accidents

Jonathan Harbut and Silvana Herra were trial counsel for a hardworking 26-year-old woman who developed chronic pain, anxiety, and depression following two rear-end collisions. At the time of the first collision, the Plaintiff was 21 years’ old and working her way up McDonald’s management, but still undecided on her future. As a result of her […]

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RHE Lawyers Successful in obtaining Certification in the Federal Court on CRA Privacy Breach Class Action 09/01/2022
RHE Lawyers Successful in obtaining Certification in the Federal Court on CRA Privacy Breach Class Action
09/01/2022
Citation: 2022 FC 1228

RHE Lawyers Successful in obtaining Certification in the Federal Court on CRA Privacy Breach Class Action

On August 25, 2022 the Federal Court granted the Plaintiff’s certification application in the CRA/CERB privacy breach class action.  RHE lawyers Tony Leoni and Matthew Burtini argued the certification hearing, which concerned unauthorized of a number of Government of Canada online portals in 2020.  The Plaintiff’s allegation was that due to operational failures by the […]

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ICBC appeal of $265,000 future loss of earning capacity award unanimously dismissed by BC Court of Appeal. 05/27/2022
ICBC appeal of $265,000 future loss of earning capacity award unanimously dismissed by BC Court of Appeal.
05/27/2022
Kringhaug v. Men, 2022 BCCA 186

ICBC appeal of $265,000 future loss of earning capacity award unanimously dismissed by BC Court of Appeal.

ICBC appealed a 2021 future loss of income earning capacity award to RHE client Kristen Kringhaug in the amount of $265,000 (total judgment damages were for just over $385,000). RHE partner John Rice was counsel at the trial level and on appeal. Following the hearing, ICBC’s appeal was unanimously dismissed, with reasons authored by Mr. […]

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RHE obtains $902,000 award for 37-year-old hairstylist and mother who was pregnant and travelling with her young son when her vehicle was broadsided 05/20/2022
RHE obtains $902,000 award for 37-year-old hairstylist and mother who was pregnant and travelling with her young son when her vehicle was broadsided
05/20/2022
Basile v. Doyle, 2022 BCSC 819

RHE obtains $902,000 award for 37-year-old hairstylist and mother who was pregnant and travelling with her young son when her vehicle was broadsided

Matthew Burtini and Michael Elliott were trial counsel for a talented hairstylist who suffered ongoing chronic pain after a motor vehicle accident. Prior to the accident, the plaintiff had begun the process of running her own hairdressing salon. She was also an active and caring mother and wife who delighted in quality time with her growing family. As a result of the […]

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RHE partner Anthony Leoni successfully persuades the BC Court of Appeal to dismiss Pfizer's appeal 05/09/2022
RHE partner Anthony Leoni successfully persuades the BC Court of Appeal to dismiss Pfizer’s appeal
05/09/2022
MacKinnon v. Pfizer Canada Inc., 2022 BCCA 151

RHE partner Anthony Leoni successfully persuades the BC Court of Appeal to dismiss Pfizer’s appeal

We are very pleased to announce that RHE partner Anthony Leoni successfully persuaded the BC Court of Appeal to dismiss Pfizer’s appeal of RHE’s successful certification of a defective birth control class proceeding.  You can read the full Court of Appeal reasons here.

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Consortium including RHE Lawyers obtain certification of issues relating to Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Allergan breast implants 03/28/2022
Consortium including RHE Lawyers obtain certification of issues relating to Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Allergan breast implants
03/28/2022
Kibalian v Allergan Inc., 2022 ONSC 1827

Consortium including RHE Lawyers obtain certification of issues relating to Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Allergan breast implants

On March 23, 2022, Justice Morgan of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice granted certification of common issues relating to the propensity of Allergan Biocell® implants to cause Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (“ALCL”). This means that the issues relating to ALCL are authorized to proceed to a common issues trial. The reasons for judgment of […]

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RHE Lawyers successful in the BC Court of Appeal in upholding cross-examination on affidavits of big tobacco witnesses 01/03/2022
RHE Lawyers successful in the BC Court of Appeal in upholding cross-examination on affidavits of big tobacco witnesses
01/03/2022
Stephens v. Altria Group, Inc., 2021 BCCA 396

RHE Lawyers successful in the BC Court of Appeal in upholding cross-examination on affidavits of big tobacco witnesses

RHE Lawyers Tony Leoni and Jesse Kendall are counsel for the Plaintiffs in a presumptive class action relating to the Defendants’ JUUL e-cigarette device, including an alleged conspiracy to deceptively market JUUL e-cigarettes, causing a nicotine use epidemic among youth.   One of the Defendants, Altria Group, Inc., brought a jurisdictional challenge to the jurisdiction of the […]

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RHE obtains over $2,800,000 arbitration award for father of two injured by drunk driver 08/24/2021
RHE obtains over $2,800,000 arbitration award for father of two injured by drunk driver
08/24/2021

RHE obtains over $2,800,000 arbitration award for father of two injured by drunk driver

RHE trial lawyers Jonathan Harbut and Silvana Herra were arbitration counsel resulting in an award of $2,806,509 for KD, a young father who suffered an excruciating back injury and anxiety after he was injured in a hit-and-run collision by a drunk driver of an uninsured vehicle.  KD was passionate about his very physical work prior […]

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RHE obtains over $1,175,000 for young man with chronic pain and psychological injuries 08/16/2021
RHE obtains over $1,175,000 for young man with chronic pain and psychological injuries
08/16/2021

RHE obtains over $1,175,000 for young man with chronic pain and psychological injuries

RHE trial lawyers Tony Leoni and Jesse Kendall were trial counsel resulting in an award of $1,175,000 in damages for Martin Kowalski, a young father, husband and computer consultant who struggled for several years following an accident in which the vehicle he was a passenger in was struck from behind. Mr. Kowalski tried for several […]

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RHE preserves trial award with continued victory against ICBC 08/10/2021
RHE preserves trial award with continued victory against ICBC
08/10/2021

RHE preserves trial award with continued victory against ICBC

In December of 2020, RHE trial lawyers Michael Elliott and Matthew Burtini obtained a $312,599 trial award for Kelly Rix—a mother and hardworking professional in the aviation industry who was injured in two motor vehicle accidents. As part of the trial award, the Court awarded $72,074 for future care – treatment that was to account […]

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RHE wins precedent for Humboldt Broncos - Stay of competing claims 07/30/2021
RHE wins precedent for Humboldt Broncos – Stay of competing claims
07/30/2021
QBG 789/20 Wasserman et al vs Govt of Sask et al

RHE wins precedent for Humboldt Broncos – Stay of competing claims

We are counsel for the presumptive class action arising out of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash of April 6, 2018. Over the last year we have worked diligently with all the lawyers and individual claimants who have other lawsuits (in Alberta and Saskatchewan) relating to this tragedy, finding common interest and purpose through cooperation. Unfortunately, […]

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RHE Successful in Obtaining Certification of Class Action Relating to Defective Alesse Birth Control 06/18/2021
RHE Successful in Obtaining Certification of Class Action Relating to Defective Alesse Birth Control
06/18/2021

RHE Successful in Obtaining Certification of Class Action Relating to Defective Alesse Birth Control

In Reasons for Judgment issued on June 7, 2021, Madam Justice Horsman granted certification of a national multi-jurisdictional class proceeding on behalf of all persons who were prescribed and ingested Alesse 21 or Alesse 28 between January 1, 2017 and April 30, 2019 (the “Class Period”). The Plaintiffs allege that Alesse, a contraceptive, was manufactured […]

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RHE obtains $383,000 for hardworking supermum, who developed a chronic pain condition after being hit by a car as a pedestrian 06/07/2021
RHE obtains $383,000 for hardworking supermum, who developed a chronic pain condition after being hit by a car as a pedestrian
06/07/2021

RHE obtains $383,000 for hardworking supermum, who developed a chronic pain condition after being hit by a car as a pedestrian

John Rice recovered $383,000 in damages after a two week trial for our hardworking client Kristen Krinhaug, a supermum who works with autistic children and who developed a chronic pain condition after being hit by a car as a pedestrian while ushering her two year old nephew off their townhouse common roadway. This was yet […]

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Another unfair low-ball offer from ICBC results in another win for RHE client 06/02/2021
Another unfair low-ball offer from ICBC results in another win for RHE client
06/02/2021

Another unfair low-ball offer from ICBC results in another win for RHE client

ICBC continues to make low-ball offers resulting in unnecessary trials.  RHE trial lawyers Tony Leoni and Ben Colangelo were counsel for Ingrid Libera in Libera v. Burgoyne, 2021 BCSC 1028. ICBC denied liability for an intersection accident despite evidence from an independent eyewitness confirming that the Defendant was at fault.  ICBC also retained, likely at […]

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Kyle-Moffat v Novex Insurance Company, 2020 BCSC 1757 - The Court provides an analysis of sequencing with competing abuse of process and certification motions. 05/12/2021
Kyle-Moffat v Novex Insurance Company, 2020 BCSC 1757 – The Court provides an analysis of sequencing with competing abuse of process and certification motions.
05/12/2021

Kyle-Moffat v Novex Insurance Company, 2020 BCSC 1757 – The Court provides an analysis of sequencing with competing abuse of process and certification motions.

RHE are counsel for individuals and businesses that were wrongly denied business interruption insurance coverage by Novex Insurance Company and Intact Insurance Company, as well as several other cases in B.C., Alberta and Ontario relating to denial of business interruption coverage.   Many other class action claims have been filed across the country. In Reasons for […]

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RHE obtains $358,000 for a young deserving artist, hairdresser, and business owner 04/29/2021
RHE obtains $358,000 for a young deserving artist, hairdresser, and business owner
04/29/2021

RHE obtains $358,000 for a young deserving artist, hairdresser, and business owner

Michael Elliott and Scott Morishita were counsel for Lisa Hau, a young artist, hairdresser, and business owner who was injured in a 2016 motor vehicle accident. Prior to the accident, Ms. Hau was a gifted hairdresser who had earned a reputation as a rising talent in her industry. Ms. Hau was entrepreneurial and had opened […]

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Court of Appeal Increases “Plainly Unreasonable” Jury Award 01/27/2021
Court of Appeal Increases “Plainly Unreasonable” Jury Award
01/27/2021

Court of Appeal Increases “Plainly Unreasonable” Jury Award

Civil juries can be a great service to our society in determining civil rights and liabilities, especially with respect to determinations of the standard of care.  Unfortunately, civil juries are often selected by ICBC in an attempt to reduce awards to persons suffering from chronic pain and other injuries that cannot be easily visualized.   The […]

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RHE obtains $312,599 trial award for resilient and hardworking 50-year-old mother and aviation professional 12/14/2020
RHE obtains $312,599 trial award for resilient and hardworking 50-year-old mother and aviation professional
12/14/2020

RHE obtains $312,599 trial award for resilient and hardworking 50-year-old mother and aviation professional

RHE trial lawyers Michael Elliott and Matthew Burtini were counsel for Kelly Rix, a mother and hardworking professional in the aviation industry who was injured in two motor vehicle accidents. She sustained soft tissue injuries and headaches, which had become chronic by the time of trial. The Court acknowledged that Ms. Rix is a resilient […]

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RHE obtains $354,000 award for young, hard-working restoration worker 09/30/2020
RHE obtains $354,000 award for young, hard-working restoration worker
09/30/2020

RHE obtains $354,000 award for young, hard-working restoration worker

RHE trial lawyer Silvana Herra was counsel for Ken Firman, a 31 year old supervisor at a restoration company who suffered from chronic neck and back pain after he was hit from behind and knocked off his motorcycle in 2015. Mr. Firman held a physically demanding job at the time of his accident.  It was […]

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RHE Obtains $500,000 Jury Award for Deserving Special Education Assistant 03/31/2020
RHE Obtains $500,000 Jury Award for Deserving Special Education Assistant
03/31/2020

RHE Obtains $500,000 Jury Award for Deserving Special Education Assistant

Michael Elliott and Ben Colangelo were trial counsel for Ms. Fiona Doyle, a 32 year old special education assistant who was injured in a March 2015 motor vehicle accident. Prior to the accident, Ms. Doyle was working full-time in her special education role as well as working additional hours outside of school as a behavioural […]

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RHE obtains $505,550 trial award for 22-year old student injured in 2 collisions 03/27/2020
RHE obtains $505,550 trial award for 22-year old student injured in 2 collisions
03/27/2020
Wong v. Campbell 2020 BCSC 243

RHE obtains $505,550 trial award for 22-year old student injured in 2 collisions

John Rice and Jesse Kendall had the distinct pleasure of acting for Parker Wong, a young man injured in two motor vehicle collisions, the first of which occurred when he was just 13 years old and which caused him to develop chronic post traumatic headaches and chronic pain which affected him in all aspects of […]

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RHE obtains $1.148 million award for pedestrian struck in a hit and run collision 01/05/2020
RHE obtains $1.148 million award for pedestrian struck in a hit and run collision
01/05/2020
O’Mara v. Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, 2019 BCSC 2222

RHE obtains $1.148 million award for pedestrian struck in a hit and run collision

Michael Elliott and Scott Morishita were trial counsel for Janis O’Mara, a 43 year old medical office coordinator, who was walking in a marked crosswalk when she was struck by a vehicle.  The vehicle that struck Ms. O’Mara fled the scene and the identity of the driver remains unknown.  The impact resulted in Ms. O’Mara […]

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RHE achieves $426,187 trial award for a self-employed tradesman with important analysis by the Court of business earnings for the purpose of assessing income loss 12/12/2019
RHE achieves $426,187 trial award for a self-employed tradesman with important analysis by the Court of business earnings for the purpose of assessing income loss
12/12/2019
Basra v. Masood, 2019 BCSC 2156

RHE achieves $426,187 trial award for a self-employed tradesman with important analysis by the Court of business earnings for the purpose of assessing income loss

RHE Trial Lawyer Tony Leoni was trial counsel for Damandip Basra, a 38 year old self-employed tile setter who sustained soft tissue injuries resulting in chronic pain and partial disability after a 2014 rear-end accident. Mr. Basra ran his own business as a sole proprietor.  On the advice of his accountant, he claimed deductions for […]

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Expert Limit Rule Overturned 10/30/2019
Expert Limit Rule Overturned
10/30/2019
Crowder v. British Columbia (Attorney General), 2019 BCSC 1824

Expert Limit Rule Overturned

We are very proud as co-counsel on behalf of RHE client Gregory Crowder and co-petitioner the Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia to have successfully challenged the constitutionality of an effort by the Attorney General of B.C. to (a) limit the number of experts used in court proceedings for even catastrophically injured British Columbians;  (b) […]

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RHE wins award of $594,372.77 in damages for client with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 09/18/2019
RHE wins award of $594,372.77 in damages for client with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
09/18/2019

RHE wins award of $594,372.77 in damages for client with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

RHE wins award of $594,327.77 in damages for 48-year-old man suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”). Trial Lawyers Jon Harbut and Tony Leoni were trial counsel for Mike Redmile, a 48-year old man who developed PTSD following a tragic highway accident.   The $180,000 that was awarded for pain and suffering is one of the highest […]

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$50,000 Awarded for Pain and Suffering for ongoing soft tissue injuries 09/16/2019
$50,000 Awarded for Pain and Suffering for ongoing soft tissue injuries
09/16/2019
Spence v. Yellow Cab Company Ltd., 2019 BCSC 1540

$50,000 Awarded for Pain and Suffering for ongoing soft tissue injuries

Jesse Kendall was trial counsel for a 45-year old man who sustained injuries while riding as a passenger in a taxicab in 2014. Despite ICBC’s view that the plaintiff’s injuries warranted a significantly lower award, the Supreme Court of British Columbia found that an award of $50,000 would fairly compensate him for his pain and […]

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$850,000 in damages to RHE client and NEW legal precedent limiting scope of ICBC investigations and surveillance 09/12/2019
$850,000 in damages to RHE client and NEW legal precedent limiting scope of ICBC investigations and surveillance
09/12/2019
Williams v. Sekhon, 2019 BCSC 1511

$850,000 in damages to RHE client and NEW legal precedent limiting scope of ICBC investigations and surveillance

On Monday September 9th, 2019 the BC Supreme Court delivered reasons from a June 2019 personal injury trial that John Rice and Tony Leoni prosecuted, awarding our young client over $850,000 in damages for the permanently partially disabling injuries he suffered in a car crash, including for right shoulder surgery and likely neck surgery in […]

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Another ICBC low-ball settlement offer forces another RHE case to trial for significant damages 07/30/2019
Another ICBC low-ball settlement offer forces another RHE case to trial for significant damages
07/30/2019
Juelfs v McCue, 2019 BCSC 1195

Another ICBC low-ball settlement offer forces another RHE case to trial for significant damages

RHE partner Jon Harbut  had the privilege of acting for Felicia Juelfs at trial, a 36 year old woman who suffered soft tissue injuries and chronic pain in her jaw, neck and back from a May 2014 car crash.  ICBC had care and conduct of the defense and forced this case to trial because of […]

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Another “no settlement” offer case from ICBC leads to $250,000 trial damages award to youth counsellor 07/25/2019
Another “no settlement” offer case from ICBC leads to $250,000 trial damages award to youth counsellor
07/25/2019
Jaehrlich v. Kuechler, 2019 BCSC 1126

Another “no settlement” offer case from ICBC leads to $250,000 trial damages award to youth counsellor

John Rice and Hector MacDonald were trial counsel for Angelika Jaehrlich, a 59 year old youth counsellor who was seriously injured as a backseat passenger in a taxi that was violently struck from the rear in a four-vehicle collision on Highway 99 near the Tsawwassen ferry terminal.  Angelika’s injuries included a concussion (defined as a […]

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$1.2M awarded to 37 year old window washer who suffered permanent partial disability from chronic pain and depression. 05/23/2019
$1.2M awarded to 37 year old window washer who suffered permanent partial disability from chronic pain and depression.
05/23/2019
Culver v. Skrypnyk, 2019 BCSC 807

$1.2M awarded to 37 year old window washer who suffered permanent partial disability from chronic pain and depression.

Jesse Kendall was trial counsel for Zachary Culver, a 37-year old window washer who was involved in two accidents a few years apart.  Mr. Culver suffered significant injuries to his low back, which over several years contributed to depression and chronic pain in his back and his legs. Mr. Culver was an extremely active young […]

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RHE recovers $552,000 for 34 year old father and general contractor after suffering leg fractures when the Defendant struck him on his motorcycle. 05/10/2019
RHE recovers $552,000 for 34 year old father and general contractor after suffering leg fractures when the Defendant struck him on his motorcycle.
05/10/2019
Scott v. Cheng 2019 BCSC 697

RHE recovers $552,000 for 34 year old father and general contractor after suffering leg fractures when the Defendant struck him on his motorcycle.

John Rice and Hector Macdonald had the pleasure of acting for Ryan Scott, a young father and general contractor who suffered severe orthopaedic injuries when the Defendant Cheng left a stop sign and failed to yield the right of way to Mr. Scott, causing a violent collision between her vehicle and Mr. Scott’s motorcycle. Our […]

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RHE achieves $2.13 million award for 25 year old pedestrian who suffered a broken femur and concussion ending his career as a chef. 04/05/2019
RHE achieves $2.13 million award for 25 year old pedestrian who suffered a broken femur and concussion ending his career as a chef.
04/05/2019
Zacher v. Prescesky 2019 BCSC 500

RHE achieves $2.13 million award for 25 year old pedestrian who suffered a broken femur and concussion ending his career as a chef.

Tony Leoni and Lawrence Bau were trial counsel for Alexander Zacher, a 25 year old line cook who was walking in a marked crosswalk when he was hit by a left turning vehicle.  The accident resulted in a right femur fracture, chronic pain, concussion, cognitive impairments, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. ICBC denied liability […]

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RHE wins award of $784,735 in damages for 46-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain and somatic symptom disorder. 11/06/2018
RHE wins award of $784,735 in damages for 46-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain and somatic symptom disorder.
11/06/2018
Brundige v. Bolton 2018 BCSC 1843

RHE wins award of $784,735 in damages for 46-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain and somatic symptom disorder.

RHE wins award of $784,735 in damages for 46-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain and somatic symptom disorder. Tony Leoni and Ben Colangelo were trial counsel for Brandy Brundige, a 46-year old woman who suffered disabling chronic pain after her vehicle was struck by a stolen SUV that was being pursued by police officers.  […]

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BC Court of Appeal - Judgment Upheld 07/17/2018
BC Court of Appeal – Judgment Upheld
07/17/2018
McKenzie v. Lloyd, 2018 BCCA 289

BC Court of Appeal – Judgment Upheld

ICBC appealed the trial judge’s award of $1,093,111 to our client, Tim McKenzie, who suffered a stroke 2 ½ weeks after an accident.  ICBC argued that the trial judge had misunderstood the expert evidence about the cause of the stroke, and did not consider ICBC’s argument that our client was not to be believed due […]

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RHE wins almost $3 million for brain injured hit & run victim, including largest ever $100,000 punitive damage award in Canada against a negligent driver. 10/16/2017
RHE wins almost $3 million for brain injured hit & run victim, including largest ever $100,000 punitive damage award in Canada against a negligent driver.
10/16/2017
Howell v. Machi, 2017 BCSC 1806

RHE wins almost $3 million for brain injured hit & run victim, including largest ever $100,000 punitive damage award in Canada against a negligent driver.

John Rice and Hector MacDonald were trial counsel for Veronica Howell, a young UBC student who was struck by a hit and run truck while crossing the street mid-block, but the Defendant drove into oncoming traffic and was driving the wrong way when he hit her.

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RHE Lawyers involved in precedent setting decision for accident involving a stolen vehicle. 09/13/2017
RHE Lawyers involved in precedent setting decision for accident involving a stolen vehicle.
09/13/2017
Provost v. Bolton, 2017 BCSC 1608

RHE Lawyers involved in precedent setting decision for accident involving a stolen vehicle.

JMR Trial Lawyers Tony Leoni and David Eleff were trial counsel for Brandy Brundige, who was stopped at a stop sign with her 5 year old son in the back of her vehicle, when she was struck at a high speed by a large truck driven by a thief.

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RHE wins $1.9 million in damages for 25-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain. 08/18/2017
RHE wins $1.9 million in damages for 25-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain.
08/18/2017
Pearson v. Savage, 2017 BCSC 1435

RHE wins $1.9 million in damages for 25-year-old woman suffering from post-traumatic chronic pain.

Jon Harbut and John Rice were trial counsel for Jessica Pearson a young woman who suffered life changing injuries in a violent head on car crash on the Sea to Sky Highway when she was only 21 years old. 

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RHE wins $1,093,111 in damages for a case that is the first of its kind in British Columbia to consider the issue of causation of a stroke occurring weeks after an accident. 09/29/2016
RHE wins $1,093,111 in damages for a case that is the first of its kind in British Columbia to consider the issue of causation of a stroke occurring weeks after an accident.
09/29/2016
McKenzie v. Lloyd, 2016 BCSC 1745

RHE wins $1,093,111 in damages for a case that is the first of its kind in British Columbia to consider the issue of causation of a stroke occurring weeks after an accident.

A new decision from the British Columbia Supreme Court has found that a stroke sustained by JMR’s client 18 days after a minor motor vehicle accident was the result of a vertebral artery dissection caused by the accident.  The case is the first of its kind in British Columbia which considers the issue of causation of a stroke occurring weeks after an accident.

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RHE wins $120, 000 for ongoing Botox Injections to treat chronic headaches, largest award in British Columbia’s history. 09/20/2016
RHE wins $120, 000 for ongoing Botox Injections to treat chronic headaches, largest award in British Columbia’s history.
09/20/2016
Picton v. Fredericks, 2016 BCSC 1470

RHE wins $120, 000 for ongoing Botox Injections to treat chronic headaches, largest award in British Columbia’s history.

Trial Lawyers Michael Elliott and Hector MacDonald acted for Allie Picton, a 33-year-old hair stylist, who suffered injuries to her neck, back, and shoulders, as well as ongoing headaches, as a result of a motor vehicle collision. Ms. Picton’s primary ongoing complaint at the time of trial was persistent headaches which interfered with her recreational, social, and vocational activities.

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RHE wins $1,190,563 in damages for a young member of our community suffering from chronic pain and impaired lifetime work capacity. 08/19/2016
RHE wins $1,190,563 in damages for a young member of our community suffering from chronic pain and impaired lifetime work capacity.
08/19/2016
Chow v. Goodman, 2016 BCSC 1486

RHE wins $1,190,563 in damages for a young member of our community suffering from chronic pain and impaired lifetime work capacity.

Trial Lawyers Jon Harbut and John Rice acted for Wing Kit (“Rick”) Chow, a 40-year-old accountant who suffered serious injuries leading to neck surgery from two rear-end motor vehicle collisions on November 20, 2009, on July 5, 2011.

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RHE defends injured victim in a 20-day Jury Trial. 08/10/2016
RHE defends injured victim in a 20-day Jury Trial.
08/10/2016
Norris v. Burgess, 2016 BCSC 1451

RHE defends injured victim in a 20-day Jury Trial.

John Rice and Jon Harbut acted for Denise Norris who suffered disabling injuries after being involved in a vehicle accident in 2010. Central to the trial was hours of covert surveillance from 2013 and 2014 that was taken on behalf of ICBC and used to dispute medical evidence of Norris’s declining health. This case highlights a first in B.C., where a full contingency fee was ordered as special costs for misconduct by a litigant.

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Young lawyer injured in a motor vehicle accident awarded $177,177 in damages. 07/12/2016
Young lawyer injured in a motor vehicle accident awarded $177,177 in damages.
07/12/2016
Frahm v. Laci, 2016 BCSC 1162

Young lawyer injured in a motor vehicle accident awarded $177,177 in damages.

Michael Elliott and Cody Wagner acted for a 36-year-old lawyer who suffered injury to her back and neck, as well as headaches, as a result of a significant motor vehicle collision. At the time of the collision the plaintiff worked in a busy litigation law firm.

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North Vancouver property owners and property manager held wholly liable for infant’s electrical burns. 06/15/2016
North Vancouver property owners and property manager held wholly liable for infant’s electrical burns.
06/15/2016
Boyes v. Wong, 2016 BCSC 1085

North Vancouver property owners and property manager held wholly liable for infant’s electrical burns.

Michael Elliott and John Rice acted for Cora Boyes who, in 2007, was 10 months old when she suffered severe electrical burns while a resident at a rental property in North Vancouver.

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RHE wins $889,650 for client injured labourer involved in a rear-end accident. 09/22/2015
RHE wins $889,650 for client injured labourer involved in a rear-end accident.
09/22/2015
Bellaisac v. Mara 2015 BCSC 1247

RHE wins $889,650 for client injured labourer involved in a rear-end accident.

Michael Elliott and Cody Wagner acted for John Bellaisac, a 35-year-old labourer who was injured as a passenger in a rear end accident. Mr. Bellaisac was a recent immigrant from Columbia. Since his arrival in Canada, Mr. Bellaisac worked as a physical labourer in demolition and asbestos removal.

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Court of Appeal remits award for future cost of care back to the trial judge for clarification, trial judge rejects ICBC’s argument and upholds initial award. 09/22/2015
Court of Appeal remits award for future cost of care back to the trial judge for clarification, trial judge rejects ICBC’s argument and upholds initial award.
09/22/2015
Johal v. Meyede 2015 BCSC 1070

Court of Appeal remits award for future cost of care back to the trial judge for clarification, trial judge rejects ICBC’s argument and upholds initial award.

The Court of Appeal remitted the award for future cost of care back to the trial judge for clarification of this issue. Michael Elliott and Cody Wagner appeared on behalf of Ms. Johal at the hearing for this matter.

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RHE represents 17 year-old involved in a Bicycle Accident. 04/20/2015
RHE represents 17 year-old involved in a Bicycle Accident.
04/20/2015
Matkin v. Hogg, 2015 BCSC 560

RHE represents 17 year-old involved in a Bicycle Accident.

John Rice and Cody Wagner acted for the Plaintiff, a 17 year old cyclist involved in a collision with the Defendant, a motorist insured by ICBC. The collision occurred after sunset during “advanced dusk”. The facts of what happened in the accident were controversial. Our client and the Defendant driver had vastly different accounts of what happened.

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Young engineer awarded damages after suffering permanent, partial disability as a result of a horrific single vehicle roll over collision. 01/28/2015
Young engineer awarded damages after suffering permanent, partial disability as a result of a horrific single vehicle roll over collision.
01/28/2015
Valino v. Chu, 2015 BCSC 114

Young engineer awarded damages after suffering permanent, partial disability as a result of a horrific single vehicle roll over collision.

In a December 2014 trial, Jon Harbut and John Rice were proud to act for a 26 year old diamond mining engineer named Mary Valino. Mary was the belted, front seat passenger in a horrific single vehicle roll over collision on October 10, 2010 near Grand Cache, Alberta. Mary was removed from the vehicle by emergency services and ultimately flown by helicopter ambulance to the hospital in Grand Prairie. Mary was a 22 year old mining graduate student at UBC when she was injured.

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BC Court of Appeal – Judgment Upheld. 01/07/2015
BC Court of Appeal – Judgment Upheld.
01/07/2015
Johal v. Meyede, 2014 BCCA 509

BC Court of Appeal – Judgment Upheld.

ICBC appealed the trial judge’s award of $611,000 for loss of capacity and $90,000 for loss of future care. John Rice and Mike Elliott argued the matter at the Court of Appeal with Cody Wagner providing instrumental help in preparing the matter for appeal.

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RHE wins $430,000 in damages for injured client involved in three motor vehicle accidents suffering from chronic pain and diminished ability to work. 09/08/2014
RHE wins $430,000 in damages for injured client involved in three motor vehicle accidents suffering from chronic pain and diminished ability to work.
09/08/2014
Rajan v. Hudon, 2014 BCSC 1678

RHE wins $430,000 in damages for injured client involved in three motor vehicle accidents suffering from chronic pain and diminished ability to work.

John Rice and Mike Elliott acted for Ashraf Rajan, an operating room nurse and married mother to two children who was injured in three motor vehicle accidents. The Plaintiff said the accidents, and especially the third accident, caused her significant injury, chronic pain, and a grossly diminished ability to continue working until retirement as a nurse.

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RHE wins $145,852 in damages for client involved in a low velocity accident. 07/07/2014
RHE wins $145,852 in damages for client involved in a low velocity accident.
07/07/2014
Brunelle v. Yoshida, 2014 BCSC 1006

RHE wins $145,852 in damages for client involved in a low velocity accident.

Ms. Brunelle had a long-standing prior injury to her left shoulder which was symptomatic, yet stable, at the time of the accident. As a result of the accident, Ms. Brunelle suffered soft tissue injury to her neck, back, and shoulders which resulted in persistent headaches, difficulty sleeping, and occasional depressive symptoms and low mood.

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34 year old transport mechanic awarded $323,170 in damages, including $220,000 for past and future loss of earning capacity, after suffering a shoulder injury as a result of two motor vehicle accidents. 05/14/2014
34 year old transport mechanic awarded $323,170 in damages, including $220,000 for past and future loss of earning capacity, after suffering a shoulder injury as a result of two motor vehicle accidents.
05/14/2014
Hong v. Wagner, 2014 BCSC 373

34 year old transport mechanic awarded $323,170 in damages, including $220,000 for past and future loss of earning capacity, after suffering a shoulder injury as a result of two motor vehicle accidents.

Jon Harbut and John Rice represented Christopher Hong at trial, a 34 year old commercial transport mechanic and commercial vehicle inspector. Chis was injured in two car accidents, but all of his damages arose out of the first crash, a terrible “roll over” accident that caused him to suffer serious injuries, especially to his right shoulder, which required surgery to the shoulder some two years after the accident.

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Home Owners Liability – Home owners held partially liable after visitor falls down dangerous stairwell. 04/13/2014
Home Owners Liability – Home owners held partially liable after visitor falls down dangerous stairwell.
04/13/2014
Doucette v. McDaniel 2014 BCSC 42

Home Owners Liability – Home owners held partially liable after visitor falls down dangerous stairwell.

Jon Harbut represented Mr. Doucette, a guest visiting a cabin that was undergoing some renovations. In the cabin there was a stairwell leading to the basement with no guardrail. Our client was walking backwards in the cabin to take a photograph and fell into the stairwell to the basement below suffering serious injuries including fractures.

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Young client suffering soft tissue injuries as a result of rear-end accident receives $795,570 in damages. 08/13/2013
Young client suffering soft tissue injuries as a result of rear-end accident receives $795,570 in damages.
08/13/2013
Johal v. Meyede, 2013 BCSC 2381

Young client suffering soft tissue injuries as a result of rear-end accident receives $795,570 in damages.

Michael Elliott and Cody Wagner acted for Lisa Johal, a 30 year old hotel front office manager. Ms. Johal was injured when her car was rear ended by the defendant. Prior to the accident, Ms. Johal had experienced minor pain, numbness, and tingling in her right arm. As a result of the accident, Ms. Johal suffered a permanent aggravation of these symptoms as well as new soft tissue injuries to her back as well as headaches.

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RHE represents client held 100% at fault, Defendant reapportioned 75% liability. 05/13/2013
RHE represents client held 100% at fault, Defendant reapportioned 75% liability.
05/13/2013
Hall v. Timms (23 March 2013), M116545 Vancouver (BCSC)

RHE represents client held 100% at fault, Defendant reapportioned 75% liability.

Jon Harbut and Michael Elliott acted for Mr. Hall. The only issue in this trial was who was at fault for a motor vehicle accident. The accident occurred at an intersection where Mr. Hall was turning left and Mr. Timms was proceeding straight through.

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RHE wins 54 year old man suffering from partial disability damages including $85,000 for future loss of income earning capacity. 11/13/2012
RHE wins 54 year old man suffering from partial disability damages including $85,000 for future loss of income earning capacity.
11/13/2012
Johnson v. Kitchener, 2012 BCSC 1796

RHE wins 54 year old man suffering from partial disability damages including $85,000 for future loss of income earning capacity.

John Rice and Hector MacDonald acted for Dean Johnson, a 54 year old truck driver injured in two car accidents. In the first accident Mr. Johnson was rear ended by a flat deck truck. We alleged on Dean’s behalf that he suffered permanent partial disability which would affect him for the rest of his life and impair his ability to work until retirement.

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RHE wins high-water award for client suffering from chronic pain. 10/13/2012
RHE wins high-water award for client suffering from chronic pain.
10/13/2012
Cantin v. Petersen, 2012 BCSC 549

RHE wins high-water award for client suffering from chronic pain.

Kevin Jarvis and Jon Harbut acted for Ms. Cantin who was injured in a car crash on June 10, 2004. Our law firm took her case over from other lawyers. We argued on Ms. Cantin’s behalf that she developed disabling and severe chronic pain because of the car accident.

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57 year old care aide awarded significant damages for wage loss, as a result of injuries she sustained as a passenger involved in motor vehicle accident. 08/13/2012
57 year old care aide awarded significant damages for wage loss, as a result of injuries she sustained as a passenger involved in motor vehicle accident.
08/13/2012
Sharifi v. Chaklader, 2012 BCSC 685

57 year old care aide awarded significant damages for wage loss, as a result of injuries she sustained as a passenger involved in motor vehicle accident.

Keith McGee and Michael Elliott acted for Ms. Sharifi.  Our client was a 57 year old care aid and assessment worker with the Ministry of Social Development. Ms. Sharifi was a passenger in a motor vehicle that struck a left turning vehicle.  At the time of the trial Ms. Sharifi was continuing to suffer from ongoing pain in her neck, back, and shoulders, as well as headaches, nausea, difficulty sleeping, and fatigue.

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The Court of Appeal unanimously dismisses ICBC’s appeal, cementing in British Columbia case law long-term yoga care as a reasonable treatment modality for chronic pain. 05/13/2012
The Court of Appeal unanimously dismisses ICBC’s appeal, cementing in British Columbia case law long-term yoga care as a reasonable treatment modality for chronic pain.
05/13/2012
Clark v. Kouba, 2012 BCSC 1607

The Court of Appeal unanimously dismisses ICBC’s appeal, cementing in British Columbia case law long-term yoga care as a reasonable treatment modality for chronic pain.

Jon Harbut and John Rice represented Gloria Clark, a working mother of two and avid marathon runner. The Plaintiff was rear-ended in a car crash on June 8, 2006. ICBC defended the claim. Ms. Clark alleged she suffered neck and back injuries that impacted all aspects of her life.

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Largest chronic pain award in British Columbia. 08/13/2011
Largest chronic pain award in British Columbia.
08/13/2011
Zen v. Readhead, 2011 BCSC 190

Largest chronic pain award in British Columbia.

Kevin Jarvis and John Rice acted for Mr. Zen. Our client was a 45 year old high level executive injured in a heavy car crash on April 1, 2005 when the Defendant Readhead ran a stop sign. ICBC was the insurer for the Defendant driver at fault. Our client developed significant chronic pain that affected his ability to run his family’s group of companies.

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Jury awards young woman damages for pain and suffering, loss of income earning capacity, income loss, and treatment expenses both past and future. 07/13/2011
Jury awards young woman damages for pain and suffering, loss of income earning capacity, income loss, and treatment expenses both past and future.
07/13/2011
Birthwhistle v. Ames et al, 2011

Jury awards young woman damages for pain and suffering, loss of income earning capacity, income loss, and treatment expenses both past and future.

Jon Harbut and John Rice acted for the Plaintiff, Crystal Birtwhistle, a young woman who was injured in two violent car crashes, the first of which occurred when she was a young girl in elementary school. ICBC defended the case and opted for a jury trial.

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Injured client awarded damages for chronic pain. 05/13/2011
Injured client awarded damages for chronic pain.
05/13/2011
Juraski v. Beek , 2011 BCSC 982

Injured client awarded damages for chronic pain.

Kevin Jarvis and Michael Elliott acted for Ms. Juraski. Our client was a 46 year old single working mother with three children. The Defendant Beek rear-ended Ms. Juraski. She developed chronic pain in her neck, shoulder and low back that affected all aspects of her life including work performance as a realtor.

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Young father suffering from chronic pain awarded damages including $25,000 for loss of future income earning capacity. 06/13/2010
Young father suffering from chronic pain awarded damages including $25,000 for loss of future income earning capacity.
06/13/2010
Cabral v. Brice, 2010 BCSC 197

Young father suffering from chronic pain awarded damages including $25,000 for loss of future income earning capacity.

Kevin Jarvis and Jon Harbut acted for Danny Cabral, a 32 year old young man injured in a rear-end car crash on March 31, 2006. We argued Mr. Cabral suffered chronic pain because of the accident.

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RHE wins working senior citizen an award for loss of income earning capacity. 05/13/2010
RHE wins working senior citizen an award for loss of income earning capacity.
05/13/2010
Elgood v. Ellison, 2010 BCSC 442

RHE wins working senior citizen an award for loss of income earning capacity.

John Rice acted for Bob Elgood, a 65 year old husband and father who, like many British Columbians, needed to work well into his seventies to support himself and his family. He worked at a bingo hall and did other odd jobs in the community like landscaping. Mr. Elgood was injured in a car accident on January 10, 2006. ICBC admitted liability for the accident.

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Jury awards one of the highest awards in British Columbia for chronic pain and diminished future earnings. 09/13/2008
Jury awards one of the highest awards in British Columbia for chronic pain and diminished future earnings.
09/13/2008
Carlson v. Daudet, 2008 Action No. M044197 (Vancouver Registry)

Jury awards one of the highest awards in British Columbia for chronic pain and diminished future earnings.

Kevin Jarvis and John Rice represented Scott Carlson for injuries he suffered in a rear end car crash on November 23, 2002. ICBC defended the claim and opted for a jury trial. The Plaintiff was 27 at the time of the accident. He was an aspiring investment advisor and stock broker with Canaccord Capital.

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RHE wins $1,294,279 in damages for pedestrian hit in parking lot, including $1,150,000 in past and future loss of capacity. 08/13/2008
RHE wins $1,294,279 in damages for pedestrian hit in parking lot, including $1,150,000 in past and future loss of capacity.
08/13/2008
Samuel v. Levi, 2008 BCSC 1447

RHE wins $1,294,279 in damages for pedestrian hit in parking lot, including $1,150,000 in past and future loss of capacity.

Keith McGee and John Rice acted for the Plaintiff. Ms. Samuel was a PhD student in chemistry at UBC when she was knocked over as a pedestrian in the parking lot at the University of British Columbia by the defendant driver.

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Injured young woman awarded damages for her pain and suffering and reimbursement of her treatment expenses. 07/13/2008
Injured young woman awarded damages for her pain and suffering and reimbursement of her treatment expenses.
07/13/2008
Cameron v. Savory, 2008 BCSC 1708

Injured young woman awarded damages for her pain and suffering and reimbursement of her treatment expenses.

Jon Harbut and Keith McGee acted for the Plaintiff in a claim for damages arising out of a car accident caused by the Defendants Savory and Kwong. Our client was a 26 year old massage therapist. She suffered mild soft tissue injuries.

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RHE wins $206,915 in damages for injured Mill Worker who suffered chronic pain as a result of a serious rear-end accident. 05/13/2008
RHE wins $206,915 in damages for injured Mill Worker who suffered chronic pain as a result of a serious rear-end accident.
05/13/2008
Gold v. Joe, 2008 BCSC 865

RHE wins $206,915 in damages for injured Mill Worker who suffered chronic pain as a result of a serious rear-end accident.

Kevin Jarvis and John Rice acted for Leonard Gold, a 56 year old mill worker who was injured in a heavy rear-end car crash. He developed chronic pain in his neck and back and painful post-traumatic headaches. We argued his ability to work until retirement was greatly impacted.

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RHE wins liability trial involving a fatal motor vehicle accident. 07/13/2007
RHE wins liability trial involving a fatal motor vehicle accident.
07/13/2007
Creutz v. Winther, 2007 BCSC 1463

RHE wins liability trial involving a fatal motor vehicle accident.

Keith McGee and John Rice were trial counsel for Gustav Creutz. The trial of this matter related only to which of two men was driving a vehicle on a back country road on October 6, 2000 which swerved off the road and engaged in a violent roll-over crash, killing Mr. Winther and leaving Mr. Creutz […]

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Court of Appeal upholds the decision to award 16 year-old girl $30,000 for loss of future earning capacity. 06/13/2007
Court of Appeal upholds the decision to award 16 year-old girl $30,000 for loss of future earning capacity.
06/13/2007
Sinnott v. Boggs, 2007 BCSC 267

Court of Appeal upholds the decision to award 16 year-old girl $30,000 for loss of future earning capacity.

Keith McGee and John Rice acted for Kasey Sinnott a girl who was 16 years old and in grade 11 when the van she was driving was hit from behind by a pick-up truck being driven by the Defendant. Kasey suffered a whiplash injury to her neck and shoulders. She missed a week of school after the accident and it impacted on her ability to play sports and work at part time jobs.

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Injured couple’s award for damages upheld by the Court of Appeal. 04/13/2007
Injured couple’s award for damages upheld by the Court of Appeal.
04/13/2007
Djukic v. Hahn, 2007 BCSC 203

Injured couple’s award for damages upheld by the Court of Appeal.

Kevin Jarvis and John Rice acted on behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Djukic. We were asked to take this case from another lawyer two months before trial. The clients were a husband and wife couple from Serbia who operated a successful deli business when both of them were injured in a car crash on June 15, 2000.

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Client injured in “low velocity impact” accident awarded $388,387 in damages. 05/13/2006
Client injured in “low velocity impact” accident awarded $388,387 in damages.
05/13/2006
Krzmaric v. Harada, 2006 BCSC 1421

Client injured in “low velocity impact” accident awarded $388,387 in damages.

Kevin Jarvis and John Rice acted for Ms. Krznaric a fitness and pilates instructor and mother of two children. The Plaintiff was hurt in what ICBC calls a “low velocity impact” crash on April 18, 2002. She developed chronic pain that affected all aspects of her life.

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Working mother awarded damages including income loss and loss of opportunity. 05/09/2006
Working mother awarded damages including income loss and loss of opportunity.
05/09/2006
Novakovic v. Wasylyshyn, 2006 BCSC 338

Working mother awarded damages including income loss and loss of opportunity.

Robert Burns and John Rice acted for the Plaintiff in a claim for damages arising out of two car crashes that occurred on March 31, 2001 and September 14, 2004. ICBC admitted fault for both of the Defendant drivers. The Plaintiff says the accidents caused pain and injury to her neck and back and contributed to depression.

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