Civil Litigation Lawyers in Burnaby

Start with the remedy, not the anger

A lawsuit is a tool, not a destination. Before filing, we ask what result you actually need. Payment? Possession? An order stopping conduct? A declaration about ownership? A settlement that ends the business relationship? The remedy shapes the evidence, court and cost.

We also consider timing and collection. Winning a judgment may have little value if the defendant has no assets or money is moved before trial. Early advice can preserve evidence, identify limitation concerns and determine whether urgent relief is realistic.

Contract and commercial disputes

We represent individuals and companies in disputes over written and oral contracts, unpaid invoices, failed transactions, service agreements, purchase agreements, shareholder and partnership relationships, business sales and commercial leases. We examine the words of the agreement, the parties’ conduct, the loss claimed and the remedy available.

Real estate and property litigation

Real estate disputes can involve failed purchases, presale contracts, deposits, misrepresentation, ownership, resulting trusts, co-ownership, nuisance, trees, easements or claims against land. Depending on the facts, a party may seek damages, specific performance, a declaration of interest or a certificate of pending litigation. A CPL is not a general debt-collection tool; the claim must support an interest in land.

Construction and renovation disputes

We advise owners, contractors and subcontractors about payment, scope changes, delay, workmanship, termination and builders-lien issues. Construction cases depend heavily on the contract, invoices, change orders, messages, photographs and project timeline. Preserve those records before positions harden.

Debt recovery and judgment enforcement

A demand letter may resolve a straightforward debt. Other cases require a claim, summary process, trial or enforcement after judgment. We assess the debtor, available records, possible defences and collection options so that legal cost remains proportionate to the amount at stake.

Defamation and online reviews

A false statement can damage a person or business quickly, especially online. Defamation claims also engage freedom of expression and several defences. We advise potential plaintiffs and defendants about publication, meaning, truth, fair comment, responsible communication, damages and practical steps to limit harm.

Urgent orders, injunctions and asset preservation

Some cases cannot wait for trial. A party may need an injunction, a freezing order, preservation of evidence or another interim remedy. These orders carry demanding legal and evidentiary requirements. If money, property or evidence may disappear, contact counsel promptly and preserve every supporting record.

Small Claims Court and BC Supreme Court

The correct forum depends on the amount, remedy and subject matter. We advise on Civil Resolution Tribunal matters, Provincial Court Small Claims and BC Supreme Court litigation. The cheapest forum is not always the one with power to grant the remedy you need.

A proportionate litigation plan

1. Define the result and the amount truly at stake.

2. Check the contract, limitation issue, evidence and collectability.

3. Preserve documents, digital records, photographs and witness information.

4. Send a focused demand or propose a settlement process where useful.

5. Use court procedure strategically, not as punishment.

Civil Litigation Lawyers in Burnaby and Vancouver