Dispute Resolution: Class Action (Defence)

McMillan is at the forefront of class actions in Canada, defending large and precedent-setting proceedings, including acting on the first class action trial in Ontario. We have also participated in many precedent-setting decisions, including in respect of the scope and standards for certifying competition class actions, those related to the ability of US courts to bind Canadian classes, class definitions and sub-classing, the test for certification, the scope and admissibility of expert evidence and cost awards. McMillan was the first firm in Canada to obtain a substantial cost award against a representative plaintiff in an Ontario class action.

We advise our clients through every stage, including early resolution options, defeating class treatment, seeking dismissal or summary judgements, and negotiating settlements; defending in the courts; managing discovery; creating strategies that mitigate risk across multiple business areas; and advising on the Canadian implications of suits originating in the US. Our lawyers have broad experience in major domestic, cross-border and international class actions. Our highly accomplished class action litigators have deep expertise in competition, fraud, product liability, consumer protection, securities, employment, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, automotive, intellectual property, environmental, and banking litigation. We help clients to defend class actions and manage impact on public reputation.