Michael ElliottPartner
Mike is a partner at Rice Harbut Elliott LLP. He has devoted his career to fighting for the underdog.
His personal injury practice includes representing people who have suffered harm from motor vehicle accidents, unsafe premises, assaults, and medical or dental malpractice. His class action work focuses on individuals harmed by defective pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer products.
Mike is naturally stubborn and was raised to value hard work. He knew from a young age that he belonged in the courtroom—not just to argue, but to stand up for those who can’t always fight for themselves. He has built his career around challenging powerful interests and leveling the playing field between large corporations and everyday people. He now has nearly two decades of courtroom experience and the privilege of having acted for clients in dozens of trials which have secured precedent-setting decisions.
Outside the courtroom, Mike finds the most meaningful part of his work is getting to know his clients who come from all walks of life. He and his team place particular importance on guiding clients through what is often the most difficult time in their lives. He is a relentless advocate, but one always grounded in listening, learning, and litigating with integrity.
In 2024, Mike served as President of the Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia, an organization of over 1,600 litigation professionals, where he current sits as a board member. Since 2021, Mike has been annually selected by his legal peers for inclusion in the publication The Best Lawyers in Canada in the field of personal injury litigation. He is a regular speaker at legal conferences, continuing education seminars, and law schools.
Professional Activities
Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia
– President, 2024
– Board Member, 2021 to present
– Member, 2008 to present
Member, Law Society of British Columbia
Member, Canadian Bar Association
Member, American Association for Justice
Education
B.A., History, University of British Columbia (2004)
LL.B., University of New Brunswick (2007)
Place And Year Of Call
British Columbia (2008)
Volunteerism
Judge, Allard Law First Year Moot Court (2016 to present)
Youth Sport Coach (2019 to present)
Board Member, Working Gear Clothing Society (2009 to 2018)
Interests
Mike and his family live in his hometown of White Rock/South Surrey. When not at work, Mike’s true happiness comes from spending time with his beautiful wife and four children who remind him of what matters most. A former rugby player, he has taken up boxing with humbling results. His other interests include reading, following politics, polar bear swims, landscaping projects, coaching youth sports, and the great outdoors.