ArticleHow To Avoid Family Disputes: The Importance Of Having A Clear Will In BCFamily disputes over the estate of a loved one can add significant emotional and financial distress to what is already a challenging time. CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleNew Case For Retroactive Child Support: Michel v GraydonPayor parents, take note: even where a child has reached the age of majority, or become financially independent and is no longer considered a "child of the marriage", the door is not closed on child support obligations that may have accrued in the past. CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleFederal And BC Provincial Tax Measures For Economic Relief During COVID-19Both the federal and provincial governments have introduced various new measures to provide economic relief to Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.CanadaCoronavirus (COVID-19)Watson Goepel LLP
ArticleWorkplace Sexual Misconduct In British Columbia: Legal Duties, Investigations & The OPCC Systemic ProbeWorkplace sexual harassment and misconduct in British Columbia is under renewed scrutiny following a systemic investigation launched by the Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC).CanadaEmployment and HRWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleChild Support: The Supreme Court Of Canada's Guide To Retroactive Adjustments & The Forgiveness Of ArrearsIn a recent decision, Colucci v Colucci, 2021 SCC 24 ("Colucci"), the Supreme Court of Canada ("SCC") clarified the appropriate framework for applications made under s. 17 of the federal Divorce Act.CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleIntersection Of Aboriginal Rights Law And Private Tort Law: A New Development?This case presented the opportunity for a new development in aboriginal law.CanadaLitigation, Mediation & ArbitrationWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleIs It Too Late To Report Institutional Abuse? 5 Common Myths About Your Legal Rights In BCIf you experienced physical abuse or sexual abuse in an institution such as a school, church or religious institution, sports organization, foster care, or another organization, you may have questions about your legal rights—or wonder whether it’s too late to do anything about what happened.CanadaLitigation, Mediation & ArbitrationWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleUnderstanding E-Scooter Liabilities In Alberta: Insights From Our Personal Injury LawyerIn recent years, e-scooters have become more and more prevalent throughout Alberta. In 2018, Calgary and Edmonton were the first two cities to receive permission and permits from the Government of Alberta to conduct pilot...CanadaLitigation, Mediation & ArbitrationWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleApplication Of Historical Railway Agreements To Modern-Day Scenarios: Recent Federal Court Of Appeal Decisions Provide GuidanceLegal disputes often arise where construction or development projects are contemplated that affect a railway's right of way.CanadaTransportWatson Goepel LLP
ArticlePaying Contested Companies Without Bank AccountsIn 0972672 BC Ltd v Standard Group Projects Inc, 2022 BCSC 1995 and confirmed in Standard Group Projects Inc v 0972672 BC Ltd, 2023 BCCA 205, our client successfully argued that paying funds...CanadaCorporate/Commercial LawWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleAm I An Employee Or An Independent Contractor In Canada? Key Legal DifferencesThe answer is more important than most people realize. It can determine whether you are entitled to severance pay, legal protections, and compensation when your work ends.CanadaCorporate/Commercial LawWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleNon-Disclosure Agreements: Changing Landscapes In Abuse And Harassment CasesAn NDA is a Non-Disclosure Agreement, also referred to as a Confidentiality Agreement or "gag order." It is an agreement in which one party agrees not to speak to any number of facts...CanadaEmployment and HRWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleCan A Verbal Promise Override A Written Will?Discover whether a verbal promise can legally override a written will. Senior Associate Ryan Chew and Co-Managing Partner Janet explain the implications for estate planning.CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleEstate Planning For Blended Families In British Columbia: Protecting Your Spouse And ChildrenBlended families in British Columbia face unique estate planning challenges when balancing the financial security of a surviving spouse with the inheritance expectations of children from previous relationships. Without proper planning, BC's default intestacy rules may distribute assets in ways that contradict your intentions and strain family relationships. CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleSeparated In British Columbia? 5 Essential Legal Facts To Know About Your Rights After SeparationWhile every situation separation is different, understanding a few key legal principles early can help you avoid common mistakes and protect your rights. Below are five important legal facts to be aware of after separating in British Columbia.CanadaFamily and MatrimonialWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleThe New Criminal Interest Rate And Calculating APROn July 22, 2023, the Government of Canada released the Budget Implementation Act, 2023, No. 1. Among other things, the Budget Implementation Act amended section 347 of the Criminal Code...CanadaFinance and BankingWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleWhy Was My Insurance Claim Denied? Understanding Policy Warranties In British ColumbiaInsurance policies often contain policy warranties that policyholders must follow throughout the life of their coverage. Understanding these warranties is crucial, as failing to comply with them can result in denied claims or policy cancellation, even when the breach didn't directly cause the loss. CanadaLitigation, Mediation & ArbitrationWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleCan You Rebuild Your Building Or Business Somewhere Else? The Answer Is Yes, If You Have The Right CoverageProperty insurance policies often contain same site clauses that restrict replacement cost coverage to rebuilding at the exact original location. When zoning changes, land use restrictions, or lease complications make rebuilding impossible, property owners and tenants may face significant financial shortfalls unless they secure a same site deletion endorsement. CanadaInsuranceWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleNavigating Wildfire Insurance ClaimsAs wildfires become increasingly severe across Canada, understanding your insurance coverage and taking preventive measures can mean the difference between adequate compensation and devastating financial loss. Learn the critical steps to protect your property, avoid common claim pitfalls, and ensure your broker has properly covered you for full replacement costs. CanadaInsuranceWatson Goepel LLP
ArticleInjured In A Boating Accident In Alberta? Here’s What You Should Know About Your Legal RightsBoating accidents in Alberta fall under Canadian maritime law and negligence principles, creating unique legal complexities for injured parties. Understanding who may be held liable—from vessel operators to equipment manufacturers—and what compensation you may pursue requires navigating federal maritime legislation, safety regulations, and provincial personal injury law. CanadaLitigation, Mediation & ArbitrationWatson Goepel LLP