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Building Businesses: Renu Urban Retreat Opens New Location

RenuSPAOn June 6, 2013, Michael Leaver and Kelly Sample were pleased to attend the Grand Opening of the Renu Urban Retreat. The original Renu Spa opened in 2009 and is located at 1432 Wellington Street W. in Wellington West Village. Renu Massage Therapy and Spa has established itself as one of the finest spas in Ottawa and its success has led to an ongoing expansion of the business. In 2013, Renu acquired and fully renovated a second spa location in the heart of downtown Ottawa. The Renu Urban Retreat opened at 195 Kent St. in the spring of 2013, featuring a full range of spa and massage services and a unique rooftop terrace. Kelly Santini LLP has had the pleasure of representing Renu from its inception in 2009, including on its recent acquisition of a second location. We extend our congratulations to Matthew, Don and Jay Garrett on all of their success with Renu. The new location looks fantastic.

Building Businesses: Valley Truck and Spring Celebrates Opening of New Mega Centre

Valley Truck and SpringOn May 31, 2013, Larry Kelly and Kelly Sample were pleased to attend the Grand Opening and 40th Anniversary Celebration for the newly expanded Pembroke Truck Centre and Valley Truck & Spring. Kelly Santini LLP has had the privilege of representing the company for many years, including work on its latest expansion project.

Bill and Doug Clouthier opened Valley Spring Service in 1972. The one bay garage specialized in suspension, for heavy trucks and trailers. Success from this one bay turned to 4 full-length truck and trailer bays. Bill’s sons, Todd and Brad, joined the business in 1979 and 1982, respectively, allowing Doug to retire in 1986. Thus, Bill Clouthier & Sons Ltd was born. Truck was added to Valley Spring Service in 1984, when the company became an International Associate Dealer. The one bay garage now grew to 10 bays, including engine mechanics, suspension specialists and a parts department. Further expansion was required in 1994, for offices for administration and a larger parts department. A second location was added in 1998, known as Pembroke Truck Centre to specialize in mechanical truck and trailer service, with a large parts department to serve customers. In 2004, this location had to be expanded. 12000 sq. ft. were added, featuring 6 full drive through bays for a complete truck and trailer. Pembroke Truck Centre expanded again in 2012 and 2013, with another 14000 sq. ft. of repair bays added. Valley Truck & Spring Service also moved to this location, creating a Truck Mega Centre.

A Do's and Don'ts Guide for Returning Injured & Disabled Employees to Work

Accommodating a disabled employee can be one of the most frustrating experiences for an employer and employee. But there are active steps that can be taken to improve the pace and effectiveness of the employee’s return to work. In this guide, employment lawyer J.P. Zubec and Christine McCool of TRAC Group Inc. provide a helpful guide to employers dealing with injured or disabled employees.

To download the guide, please click here.

Tim McCunn named leading lawyer for transactions in the Life Sciences sector

Business lawyer Tim McCunn has been named as a leading lawyer for transactional work in the Life Sciences sector in the Who's Who Legal special report on Canada. Nominees are selected based upon comprehensive, independent survey work with both general counsel and private practice lawyers worldwide.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Kelly Santini LLP Sponsors Invest Ottawa

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to announce it has joined Invest Ottawa's Entrepreneurship Centre as a supporting partner. Lawyers from the firm's business group will be taking an active role supporting Invest Ottawa's mission of helping Ottawa entrepreneurs make informed decisions about starting and growing their businesses.

Kelly Santini LLP Honoured By WICC

The Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade (WICC) have honoured Kelly Santini LLP with their Gold Flame award in recognition of the firm's support of their efforts to raise funds to fight cancer over the past three years. The award was presented to Kelly Santini LLP at the WICC gala fundraiser in Toronto on April 11th. Since its inception in 1996 WICC has raised over $3.5M for cancer research.

Kelly Santini LLP Welcomes Finance & Securities Lawyer Tim McCunn

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to welcome corporate lawyer Tim McCunn as a partner in the firm’s Business group. Tim’s practice is focused on corporate/commercial and securities law with particular emphasis on mergers and acquisitions and corporate finance for the technology and life sciences sectors. He has advised on over 500 transactions involving the financing of both technology and biotechnology companies across Canada acting as counsel to issuers and venture capital funds. A fluently bilingual lawyer, Tim has been recognized repeatedly in Canadian Legal Lexpert’s Directory in the area of Corporate Commercial Law; Corporate mid-market and Private Equity.

Sean Bawden Elected Trustee of County of Carleton Law Association

Congratulations to Sean Bawden who was recently elected to serve as a trustee of the County of Carleton Law Association (CCLA). The CCLA was formed in Ottawa in 1888 by a group of 60 lawyers, and is now the second largest law association in Ontario.

Arbitration Win in Shareholders Dispute Results in Expulsion from Professional Partnership

Rick Brooks and Mark Gallagher acted for two members of a highly successful professional partnership who sought the expulsion of a third partner on the basis of a breach of the partnership agreement that brought adverse publicity to the partnership. The matter was the subject of a two day arbitration hearing in Ottawa in December, 2012 with judgment being pronounced in January 2013. Rick and Mark’s clients were successful on every issue arbitrated, and recovered a significant sum in costs by agreement of the parties after exceeding their formal offer of settlement. The arbitrator’s decision allows the partnership to move on with their business and put to rest a lengthy period of turmoil for their office.

Just Published: 'Private Client Matters: The New Year Edition'

Each year Kelly Santini LLP helps a countless number of clients manage the legal aspects of their private lives. These clients turn to us for assistance with everything from buying a first home to estate planning or resolving an employment matter. To help our private clients stay informed about the issues that affect them we have created a new private client e-newsletter. In the first edition we address:

  • Residential Real Estate: Have Your Next Move Planned Ahead
  • Insurance Law: Are You Covered on the Road?
  • Tax & Trusts: Could Your Business Help You Save More This Year?
  • Estate Planning: Keeping Your Guardianship Up
  • Employment Law: Look Before You Leap


To view the newsletter please click here.

Kelly Santini Advises on Reverse Takeover of WESA Group Inc.

Kelly Santini LLP acted for long-standing client WESA Group Inc. in the completion of its recent reverse takeover transaction with Seprotech Systems Incorporated. The combined entity resulting from the transaction, now listed as BluMetric Environmental Inc., is expected to be a leading provider, internationally, of earth science and environmental engineering services, and wastewater and water treatment systems. The $11M transaction was led by business group lawyer Don Burke, with assistance from associate, Diem Nguyen. For further information on the transaction, please click here.

Canadian Law Blog Award for Sean Bawden

Congratulations to employment lawyer Sean Bawden whose blog was recently named 'Best New Blog' in the Canadian Law Blog Awards (aka the Clawbies). The judges commented that Sean's Employment Law Blog for the Suddenly Unemployed was "accessible and enjoyable, while winning hands-down 2012's 'Best Blog Name' award."

Community Matters

Throughout 2012 we were proud to play a part in a number of important initiatives that help support our community. Most recently, volunteers from Kelly Santini were on hand at the Ottawa Mission as part of the Law Society's 'Lawyers Feed the Hungry' program. In October, over three hundred people from the Ottawa business community joined us for the Special Olympics Festival Breakfast honouring our local athletes, coaches and volunteers. Now in its 8th year, this year's breakfast raised over $25,000 for Special Olympics programs in Eastern Ontario. Other community programs we were so pleased to support in 2012 included:


Our thanks go out to all the dedicated staff and volunteers at all these community associations who work tirelessly to make these events happen.

IT & Life Science Lawyer Bob Ford Joins Kelly Santini LLP

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to welcome corporate lawyer Robert Ford as a partner in the firm’s Business group. Bob's practice is specifically dedicated to servicing the particular needs of technology and life sciences companies and those investors that fund them. He provides advice to both senior and emerging technology and biotechnology companies, investment banks, private equity and venture capital investors in domestic and cross border equity and debt financings, mergers and acquisitions, technology/life sciences licensing transactions and corporate reorganizations. Bob has advised clients in a variety of commercial industries, including medical devices, semi-conductor, networking systems, hardware, software, web-based and e-businesses.

Lawrence Silber Awarded Advanced Certificate in Family Enterprise Advising

Congratulations to Lawrence Silber who was awarded the Advanced Certificate in Family Enterprise Advising with Distinction by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). STEP is the leading worldwide professional body for practitioners in the fields of trusts, estates and related issues. STEP members help families plan their long term financial future, facilitating good stewardship and financial planning across future generations.

Are Not-For-Profit Prepared for the New Federal Not-For-Profit Act?

In October 2011 new Federal Not-for-Profit legislation was passed and organizations affected were given three years to transition to the new requirements. Kelly Santini’s Business Group has launched a survey to determine if federally incorporated not-for-profit corporations are prepared for the new legislation, how long the conversion process is typically taking, what common pitfalls are being confronted and what lessons have been learnt thus far. A summary of the findings and recommendations will be shared with all interested participants and all responses are confidential. Please click here to participate in the survey.

Kelly Santini Client Bemac Featured in Canadian Business Journal

J.P. McAvoy recently advised the Frangione family on the 100% acquisition of Bemac Collisions Centres. You can read the feature write-up in the Canadian Business Journal by clicking here.

8th Annual Special Olympics Breakfast Raises $25K for Local Athletes

Kelly Santini's Don Burke (far right) presents the Mike McCool Sportsmanship Award with Christine McCool and Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson to Ada Chan (second from left). | Mark Gallagher of Kelly Santini dons his red laces for the annual 'Be a Fan' day on October 25th."You don't always get to choose the role you play, but you can choose how you play it". That was the message delivered by key note speaker Small Jo Small as she shared how she supported her teammates during the women's gold medal hockey game at the Winter Olympics. This year's Special Olympics fundraiser was supported by over 300 members of the Ottawa business community who attended the early morning breakfast at the Ottawa Convention Centre. They were joined by dozens of Ottawa area Special Olympic athletes, volunteers and coaches for the awards ceremony.

Kelly Santini's support of the Special Olympics continued on October 25th when staff members sported their red laces for the annual 'Be a Fan' campaign.

Cox Merritt & Co advised by Kelly Santini in sale to KPMG

Kelly Santini recently acted for the partners of Kanata based accountancy firm Cox Merritt & Co on the sale of their practice to KPMG. Kelly Sample and Andre Munroe acted for Cox Merritt & Co. To read the press release on acquisition, please click here.

Kelly Santini Adds to its Strength in Litigation

Sean BawdenMark GallagherWe are delighted to welcome two lawyers to the firm who bring with them considerable experience in employment and commercial litigation. Sean Bawden is a well-known Ottawa based employment law litigator with experience advising businesses and individuals in all aspects of employment law including discrimination claims, wrongful dismissal, WSIB claims, pay equity and human rights. He is the publisher of the widely read ‘Blog for the suddenly unemployed’. Mark Gallagher is an experienced litigator primarily advising clients in business and civil disputes. His broad practice includes complex commercial litigation, construction liens, debt claims, corporate and shareholder disputes, product liability and actions involving claims of fraud and breach of fiduciary duty. Prior to moving to Ottawa in 2012, Mark practiced in Vancouver where he regularly appeared before all levels of Court, and was involved in a variety of high profile trials.

Kelly Santini Engineers MBO

Kelly Santini LLP recently had the pleasure of representing the purchasers on the management buyout of Keller Engineering Associates.  Kelly Sample and André Munroe advised the management group on the transaction, working closely with the seller to ensure a seamless transition for the management team.  Keller Engineering Associates Inc. is a leading multi-disciplinary engineering and building science firm.  

$300K Arbitration Win For Traveller Denied Medical Coverage

Shawn O'Connor successfully represented a retired traveller after his insurer, Manulife Financial, denied his claim for the medical expenses he incurred after suffering a heart attack in Hawaii.  Despite receiving a clean bill of health from a cardiologist prior to his trip, Manulife alleged that Shawn's client had misrepresented his health in his insurance application.  After Kelly Santini was retained the insurer recanted that allegation, but still took the position that the claim was not covered because of two exclusion clauses in the policy. Shawn commenced arbitration proceedings and at the outset of the arbitration the insurer admitted that only one of the policy exclusions could apply. The arbitrator in the case agreed with Shawn that the insurer's interpretation of the wording of the policy was incorrect and that the claim totaling $292,539 should be paid. 

8th Annual Special Olympics Festival Breakfast – October 10th

Now in its 8th year, the Special Olympics Annual Festival Breakfast continues to be a not-to-be-missed event thanks to the great support of the Ottawa business community. Over the years, this support has resulted in over $140,000 being raised in support of our area athletes. Kelly Santini LLP is proud to present this annual recognition of our Special Olympic athletes, their committed coaches and volunteers, and we would be delighted if you could join us in supporting their love of sport, competition and inclusion. For table and sponsorship booking, please click here.

Kelly Santini Advises on $25M Loan Facility

Kelly Sample and Michael Leaver represented Discovery Air Inc. on its new $25M loan facility with CIBC. For full details, please see the Discovery Air's press release.

Three Articling Students Join Kelly Santini After Call to the Bar

Three Articling Students Join Kelly Santini After Call to the BarKelly Santini is delighted to announce that three of our articling students will be joining the firm on a permanent basis as newly qualified lawyers. Matt Landry and Lisa Kayaga were called to the Bar in June and are have joined the Business Group. They will be joined by Charlotte Porter when she is called to be Bar in September. Upon her call Charlotte will be joining the firm's Litigation Group.

Digging in for Lees Avenue Community Garden

It may have been one of the hottest days of the year, but that didn't stop volunteers from Kelly Santini who helped install a new garden in the Lees Avenue Community. The day was a fantastic success, despite the intense heat. In total there were 86 hard-working volunteers built and planted 13 garden beds (raised vegetable beds and perennial flower beds), mulched the surrounding area and paths, and installed seating areas. After a long, tiring day in the sun, the ribbon cutting ceremony was well attended by proud volunteers as well as community members who had witnessed the transformation from the nearby apartment buildings. Local elected officials also attending the ribbon cutting ceremony to show their support including Member of Federal Parliament Paul Dewar, Member of Provincial Parliament Yasir Naqvi, Mayor Jim Watson and City Councillor David Chernushenko. All speakers commended the project for instilling a sense of community pride and working bringing something fundamental and lasting to city land. To read more about the project, please click here. To see a few shots of our volunteers hard at work, please click here.

Kelly Santini LLP Advises GaN Systems Inc. on VC Funding

J.P. McAvoy acted for semi-conductor manufacturer GaN Systems Inc. on closing its second round of Venture Capital funding from Chrysalix Energy Venture Capital and RockPort Capital. GaN Systems Inc. develops semiconductors for clean technology. The advice provided by JP prepared GaN Systems Inc. for the funding and implemented the changes to the company’s structure reflecting the new cash infusion by its investors.

Pat Santini Receives Award for Excellence in Insurance Law

Pat Santini Award for ExcellenceOver 190 members of Ottawa's insurance and legal community gathered last night to honour Pat Santini, this year's recipient of the Ontario Bar Association's Award for Excellence in Insurance Law. In his keynote speech, Lawrence Kelly reflected on Pat's 30+ year career in insurance law and paid tribute to his devotion to his family and his numerous personal and professional accomplishments:

"I cannot think of a more deserving candidate given Pat’s excellence in his insurance practice, his contribution to the profession and his dedication to community service. With Pat as a senior partner, Kelly Santini has built one of the pre-imminent insurance practices in the region. There are many people with expertise in insurance law who never develop a practice of this magnitude. I would suggest to you that you don’t build this type of practice and retain the loyalty of major insurance companies for decades unless you bring a lot more than just expertise to the table. Pat conducts himself with professionalism and integrity at all times, and sets an excellent example for all lawyers in his approach to the practice of law. He has always been known for his forensic ability to analyze and dissect a case and put his evidence together. Another key attribute is his ability to understand and be respectful of the human side of the practice. Pat puts everyone at ease and sets a tone of civility that is the hallmark of all his appearances before the Court."

Pat was presented the award by Morris Chochla, Vice-President of the Ontario Bar Association and Aleksandra Zivanovic, Chair of the Ontario Bar Association Insurance Law Section.

Kelly Sample Welcomes the Class of 2012 at Carleton University

Kelly Sample was honoured to deliver the alumni welcome message to Carleton University's Sprott School of Business and Faculty of Engineering and Design graduating class at their convocation ceremony on June 8th. Kelly received her Bachelor of Commerce degree from Carleton in 1994 and has been named one of the University's 'Great Grads'. She remains an active volunteer at Carleton and has been a mentor with the school's Social Innovation Challenge.

Kelly Santini LLP Insurance Defence Group Rated as a Leading Firm

The Lexpert® 2012 Canadian Legal Directory has once again recognized Kelly Santini LLP as a Leading Firm in the field of Litigation (Commercial Insurance). Pat Santini was also singled out as a leader lawyer in the field.

Employment Group Secures Dismissal from Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario

Richard Sinclair successfully represented the Canadian Soccer Association in their defence of a complaint of discrimination on the basis of sex. In this case, the applicant complained that she was denied the opportunity to run for a seat on the Board of Directors of a district soccer association because of her sex. The CSA’s request for a Summary Hearing was granted by the Tribunal. Following the Summary Hearing, the Tribunal held that the application had no reasonable prospect of success and dismissed the complaint in its entirety.
Grigorakis v. Essex County Soccer Association, 2012 HRTO 906

Kelly Santini Advises Great Slave Helicopters Ltd on Acquisition of Northern Air Support

Kelly Santini's aviation group recently acted for Great Slave Lake Ltd on the financing and acquisition of Northern Air Support, a helicopter charter company with operations in British Columbia and Alberta. Great Slave Helicopters Ltd is a subsidiary of Discovery Air Inc. The Kelly Santini team was comprised of Kelly Sample, André Munroe and Michael Leaver. To read the press release from Discovery Air Inc. please click here.

Pat Santini Honoured by OBA with Award for Excellence in Insurance Law

We are delighted to announce that Pat Santini has been named the 2012 recipient of the Ontario Bar Association's Award for Excellence in Insurance Law.The Award was created to recognize and thank outstanding members of the Ontario Bar Association for their exceptional achievements, distinguished service and contributions in the following areas:

  • The development of insurance law through advocacy, teaching, writing or legislative reform;
  • Leadership in the profession and particularly of lawyers practicing insurance law;
  • Maintaining the highest standards of professional competence as well as the highest levels of honesty, integrity and civility;
  • Enhancement of the profession of law and the well being of the community

Pat will be honoured for his accomplishments by the OBA at a gala dinner in Ottawa on June 12th.  For ticket information, please contact Terrine Glover at the OBA on 416-869-1047 ext. 339.

Strike Three – Kelly Santini LLP Successfully Defends Can-Am League at Supreme Court

Judgment from the Supreme Court of Canada was released earlier today on the Canadian American Association of Professional Baseball matter which was heard on February 10, 2012. The unanimous decision dismissed the appeal and found in favour of the League. Pat Santini and Samantha Iturregui are very pleased with the outcome obtained on behalf of their client.

From Starting Out to Selling Up – New Blog Launched for Business Owners

Kelly Santini LLP's Business Group is pleased to welcome 2012 with the launch of a new business law blog – StartUp. BuildUp. SellUp. This blog has been created to provide business owners, investors, entrepreneurs and managers with helpful and insightful guidance on issues which could affect or help their business in the months and years to come.  Whether you are just setting out on a new business venture or beginning to think about a succession or exit strategy, we hope this blog will be a helpful resource for your business in 2012 and beyond. 

Business Law Webinar Program Off to Busy Start in 2012

The Business Group webinar program is off to a busy start in 2012.  We have three webinars scheduled to kick off the year.  They are:


For full details on each webinar and to register, please click on the links above.

Court of Appeal upholds ruling for Canadian Soccer Association

Kelly Santini LLP has successfully represented the Canadian Soccer Association before the Ontario Court of Appeal in a sponsorship dispute with Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. The Court of Appeal upheld the summary judgment ordered by the Ontario Superior Court requiring Hyundai to pay the CSA $175,000 in damages after the automaker backed out of its two year sponsorship deal. Kelly Santini's team was led by Pat Santini and Richard Sinclair. Read the Court of Appeal ruling and more on the case in Financial Post and the Globe and Mail.

Year of Community Support Comes to Busy End

December marks the end of another busy year of support for our community. We are pleased and privileged to be able to lend our support to so many organizations that help the less fortunate in our community. This month, members of the firm have donated their time to feed the hungry at the Ottawa Mission and donated toys for the Children's Aid Society gift program. Earlier in the autumn our Special Olympics festival breakfast raised over $25,000 for local athletes and our Movember participants joined forces with our friends at Johnny Farina's restaurant to raise $5800 for prostate cancer research. Other community organizations we have been pleased to support this autumn include:

Movember team raises $5800

The month of Movember came to a conclusion last night with the crowning of Mr Movember and the presentation of a cheque for $5800 to the Movember Foundation. Kelly Santini LLP was delighted to once again partner with our friends at Johnny Farina's for Movember. Congratulations to everyone who participating and thanks to everyone who supported the cause. Check out some photos of the 'staches and the wrap party here.

Kelly Santini Introduces On-line Payment Options

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to now offer clients convenient online banking services for invoice payments. The fast, easy and secure service is available from all major financial institutions. We're are pleased to be the first local law firm to offer this convenient service to our clients.

Business Group Webinar – Family Businesses and the need for Shareholder Agreements

Monday, Nov 28th from 12:15 – 1:00pm

The number of business and family related issues that can have a detrimental impact a family business are immense. Shareholder agreements can prevent many of the predictable but inevitable changes in family and business dynamics from having a negative impact on the business and provide an agreed mechanism for resolving disputes fairly when they do arise. Business Group partner Lawrence Silber will outline the essential elements of a shareholders' agreement for a family business that will help the business survive and thrive in the short and long term. Also in the presentation, Lawrence will share examples of how the shareholders' agreement can be created to meet the unique needs and preferences of any family business. Topics covered will include:

  1. Defining roles and responsibilities within the company
  2. Planned succession of the business from one generation to the next
  3. Mandatory mediation and exit procedure agreements when conflicts arise
  4. Avoiding conflict between family members active in the business and non-active family shareholders
  5. Restrictions on transferring shares
  6. Rules for selling the business by one shareholder or by all family members
  7. How to handle the death or disability of a shareholder
  8. How to handle marital breakdowns within the family business
  9. Agreements on how the business will be funded

To register, please click here.

Issues in international transactions tackled at USLAW conference

Kelly Sample and Andy Scott were recently part of an international panel which addressed 'Issues in International Commercial Transactions' at the recent USLAW conference in Chicago. Kelly Santini LLP is the first Canadian member of the USLAW Network, an international organization composed of 64 independent law firms with over 4,000 lawyers. Kelly, who is qualified to practice in both Ontario and New York and has advised clients on dozens of cross-border transactions, and Andy discussed a range of issues which impact international M&A including:

  • Civil and common law differences
  • Principles of equity
  • Pre-contractual liability
  • Choice of law and choice of forum
  • Laws that cannot be contracted around
  • Restrictive covenants
  • Dispute resolution

Joining Kelly and Andy on the panel were lawyers from USA, China and Italy. To view the slides from the presentation, please click here.

Kelly Santini LLP leads panel on alternative energy at national RIMS conference

Insurance litigation partner Mitchell Kitagawa lead the panel presentation on the 'Future Plans and Future Risks of Going Green' at the recent RIMS conference in Ottawa. Joining Mitch on the panel were:

  • Prof David Wright of the Telfer School of Business at the University of Ottawa
  • David Miller, Manager, Environmental Sustainability Branch, City of Ottawa
  • Gary Martin, Manager of Renewable Energy Products, Energy Options
  • Steven Beswick, Senior Vice President and National Power Practice Leader, Marsh Canada Limited

Commenting on the session, Mitch said "Our aim was to provide delegates with a view of the future direction of alternative energy from both a government policy and technology standpoint. It was a fascinating overview and Steven Beswick's insights on how the insurance industry is responding gave us all a lot to think about." The slides from the session can be viewed by clicking here.

Special Olympics 7th Annual Festival Breakfast: The more that come, the more that go!

Now in its 7th year, the Special Olympics Annual Festival Breakfast has quickly become a not-to-be-missed event thanks to the great support of the Ottawa business community. Over the years, this support has resulted in over $120,000 being raised in support of our area athletes. This year's breakfast is taking place on October 5th at the beautiful Ottawa Convention Centre.

This year, many of our local athletes are training hard to meet their goal of qualifying for the provincial championships being held in Kingston. Our goal this year is to raise the funds needed to ensure every athlete that qualifies receives the financial assistance needed to participate in this wonderful event.

Kelly Santini LLP is proud to present this annual recognition of our Special Olympic athletes, their coaches and volunteers, and we would be delighted if you could join us in honouring their dedication and achievements and to support their future endeavours. Please click here for full details on the sponsorship opportunities and to order tickets, and click here to see the ad.

Kelly Santini LLP Becomes First Canadian Member of USLAW Network

USLAWKelly Santini LLP is delighted to announce it has joined USLAW Network as it first Canadian member. USLAW Network is comprised of over 60 independent member firms covering 47 states, Canada and Latin America.

Commenting on their membership in USLAW, Kelly Santini's founding partner Larry Kelly said "Kelly Santini LLP is honoured to become USLAW Network's first Canadian member. USLAW Network member firms are of the highest calibre and we are extremely impressed with the scope and depth of its legal talent. Our affiliation will allow us to further support our client's cross border needs and to provide similar assistance to U.S. member firms when their clients are establishing or growing their Canadian operations and relationships. Our firm is very excited about this new opportunity."

Kelly Santini is an excellent addition to USLAW's portfolio of member firms," stated Roger M. Yaffe, USLAW Executive Director. "With the firm's assistance, USLAW plans to expand its growth throughout the provinces of Canada."

For further information on USLAW Network, please visit www.uslaw.org.

Gregory Miskie named to Canadian Bar Association Charities & Not-For-Profit Executive

Gregory MiskieCongratulations to first year associate Gregory Miskie on being named to the Canadian Bar Association's National Charities & Not-for-Profit Law section executive. Gregory has a long history of community support and his appointment is a well-earned achievement.

Sean Van Helden joins Litigation Group

Sean Van HeldenWe're delighted to welcome Sean Van Helden to the firm. Sean is an associate with the litigation group. His practice focuses on focus on insurance and commercial matters, primarily in the fields of product liability, property damages, motor vehicle liability, accident benefits including priority and loss transfer disputes, professional negligence, coverage and personal injury.

Students No More – Gregory Miskie and Michael Leaver Called to the Bar

Gregory Miskie Called to BarMichael Leaver Called to BarCongratulations to Gregory Miskie and Michael Leaver on being called to the Bar of Ontario after completing their articles with the firm. Since our founding over thirty years ago, we have been proud to play a role in the development of new lawyers. These two exceptional new lawyers have continued that great tradition.

Kelly Santini Rolls Up Their Sleeves for CE Centre Ground Breaking

On June 1st, Kelly Sample and Michael Leaver enjoyed a close up view of the ground breaking ceremony for Ottawa's new CE Centre. Located near Ottawa International Airport, the 220,00 square-foot trade show facility can host up 15,000 people and has 90 exhibitions booked to date. Kelly Santini LLP advised Shenkman Corporation, the lead developer of the project, on the negotiation and financing of the public private partnership.

Our New Mobile Web Site is Live – Find us whenever you needs us, wherever you are.

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to introduce a mobile version of our web site.  So you can find us whenever you need us, wherever you are.  The new site provides contact details and short bios for all our lawyers as well as an overview of all our services and of course easy to use maps for getting to our downtown or west end office.   You can also access the full content of our main site from the mobile site by selecting 'Go to Full Site' at the bottom of every page. Go to www.kellysantini.com from any smart phone and take a look!

Kelly Santini LLP Launches Survey on the Implications of Renewable Energy for Insurers

In recent years, more businesses and households have sought additional income through the installation of renewable energy equipment such as solar panels, geothermal heat or wind turbines at their homes, farms or places of work. The increased use of these technologies has brought about many new coverage issues for insurers. The Insurance Defence Group at Kelly Santini LLP has developed a research survey to help understand the range of claims being made with respect to renewable energy systems. Insurance adjusters and other members of the insurance sector are invited to participate in the on-line survey by clicking here. Survey results and other renewable energy issues affecting insurers will be unveiled at a seminar and webinar in June 2011.

J.P. McAvoy named to 'Top Forty Under 40'

J.P. McAvoyTop 40 Under 40Congratulations go out to J.P. McAvoy who has been named to the Ottawa Business Journal Forty Under Award for 2011. J.P. is partner in the firm's business group practicing corporate and commercial law. His accomplishment will be recognized at a gala dinner on June 16th.

RMC and Kelly Santini LLP Take RIMS 2011 on-line with Conference App

The Risk Management Counsel of Canada and member firm Kelly Santini LLP from host city Ottawa have teamed up to sponsor the official smart phone App for the annual Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) Canada Conference. This is the first time the conference will have an App which comes with a number features which will help delegates get the most out of the three day event. Features of the App include:

  • A searchable conference agenda allowing delegates to create and edit their schedule on the go
  • A map of the conference facility
  • Speaker bios
  • Exhibitor listings


Helping delegates make 'ConneXions'
The theme for this year's conference is Capital ConneXions and the Attendee Profile feature of the App will play an important role in helping delegates connect. If they choose, attendees can create detailed profiles on the App and search the entire listing to find the right people they need to meet. With direct links to social networking pages like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, all the contact information they need will be immediately available.

"We are extremely excited to be partnering with RIMS Canada to provide the App for the conference in Ottawa. When 1000 delegates are away from home, their smart phone becomes an essential life line. What better way to help make sure delegates get to the right sessions and meet the right people than to put all the information right in the palm of their hand."
– Steve Kelly, Partner at Kelly Santini LLP.

The conference is taking place in Ottawa, September 18-21, 2011.

New Articling Students Bring International Credentials

Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to welcome two new articling students this month, both whom bring international experience and qualifications to the firm. Lisa Kayaga completed her law degree in Uganda in 2006 and a Masters degree in law at Queen's University in 2007. She joined Kelly Santini LLP in 2008 as a law clerk while studying and completing her eight National Committee on Accreditation and Ontario Bar exams. Matt Landry completed his B.A. from Simon Fraser University in 2005 and law degree (JD) in Michigan 2010. He joined the firm in the summer of 2010 while studying and completing his four National Committee on Accreditation exams.

Employment Law 101 – Practical Advice to Help you Protect and Grow Your Business

For the owners of small and growing businesses, the area of employment law can be a constantly changing minefield. On the one hand, recruiting and developing new talent in your organization is critical for meeting the current and future needs of the business. On the other hand, any misstep along the way could result in a lengthy, costly and disruptive dispute with an employee, the Ministry of Labour, the Canada Revenue Agency or the Workers' Safety and Insurance Board. Understanding and complying with your obligations as an employer will help you alleviate these threats and let you focus on running your business.

The employment group at Kelly Santini is pleased to invite you to a breakfast seminar that will guide you through essential employment law issues you need to know. This seminar will focus on:

  • Mandatory employment standards including hours of work, overtime, vacation time and maternity and other leaves of absence.
  • Termination of employees– steps to take and considerations to be made
  • The essentials of employment contracts including non-compete clauses
  • The pros and cons of hiring contractors versus employees


Dates:
May 4th – Downtown Ottawa. Click here to register.
May 18th – Kanata. Click here to register.

Speakers:
J.P. Zubec
Richard Sinclair

Supporting Tomorrow's Entrepreneurs

Kelly Santini LLP is proud to be a sponsor of The Nicol Entrepreneurial Award again this year. The Nicol Award is a national program designed to generate and reward interest in entrepreneurship on the part of undergraduate students in any faculty or field of study at participating universities across Canada. Launched in 1997, this program now awards over $100,000 in prize money each year to individual students or student teams who submit winning plans for their entrepreneurial business ideas.

St Patrick's Home Celebrates Fund Raising Success

March 17th was even more special than usual this year for St Patrick's Home in Ottawa which celebrated the completion of a $10M fund raising campaign and the ceremonial ground breaking of their new building - a 5 storey, $55.4M facility with a total of 288 rooms. The fund raising campaign was chaired by Larry Kelly and St Patrick's Board of Directors is chaired by Don Burke. Congratulations to everyone involved. Read more in The Ottawa Citizen.

Pat Santini Admitted as a Fellow to the American College of Trial Lawyers

Pat SantiniPat Santini, a partner at Ottawa law firm Kelly Santini LLP has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America. The induction ceremony at which Pat became a Fellow took place recently before an audience of 700 attendees at the 2011 Spring Meeting of the College in San Antonio, Texas.

Founded in 1950, the College is composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada. Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only and only after careful investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality. Lawyers must have a minimum of fifteen years trial experience before they can be considered for Fellowship.

Minto Run for Reach

Our team is gearing up for the Minto Run for Reach on April 10th. Reach Canada's mission is to improve the quality of life for citizens with disabilities by offering lawyer referral and educational services at the community level. Hope you join us for the run in support of this great cause. Get all the details here.

J.P. McAvoy featured in OBJ article on the state of Venture Capital

Kelly Santini scores big for Canadian Soccer Association

Kelly Santini LLP has successfully represented the Canadian Soccer Association in a sponsorship dispute with Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. In the summary judgement, Hyundai was ordered to $175,000 in damages for breach of contract after the automaker backed out of a two-year sponsorship deal. Kelly Santini's team was led by Pat Santini and Richard Sinclair. Read more on the case in Financial Post and the Globe and Mail.

Kelly Santini sponsors Capitol City Dive Meet

On February 12 & 13, 2011 springboard divers from Quebec and Ontario between the ages of 6 and 18 attended the Capitol City Dive Meet at the Nepean Sportsplex. Kelly Santini LLP through the help of Allison Klymyshyn was the corporate sponsor for the event and continues on as corporate sponsor for the Nepean Ottawa Diving Club this year. The Nepean Ottawa Diving Club is a non-profit diving organization which has been providing platform and springboard training to divers since 1973 and operates under the mission of "Developing world class divers for Canada". Congratulations to all of the participants this past weekend! See some of the photos from the meet here.

Construction Lien Act Seminar

Litigation partner Shawn O'Connor is speaking at the Ottawa Construction Association seminar on April 15th. Get all the details here.

Great news for our team, and yours. Kelly Santini LLP Welcomes J.P. Zubec.

J.P. Zubec Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to welcome J.P. Zubec to the firm's Litigation Group. J.P.'s practice focuses on employment law for businesses and individuals. Since being called to the Bar of Ontario in 2003, he has built an impressive track record successfully representing clients before the Federal Court of Appeal, Divisional Court and Superior Court of Justice, the Canada Industrial Relations Board, Ontario Labour Relations Board and the Ministry of Labour. In addition, he also regularly represents clients in general litigation, including on personal injury claims and wills and estates disputes. As a former professional hockey referee, J.P. is no stranger to resolving complex and sensitive disputes between parties.

Seminar & Webinar – Ensuring a Cost Effective and Efficient Insurance Defence

Understanding and following the fundamentals of file preparation and court procedure can have a major impact on the outcome of a defence or subrogated action and the costs associated with the court proceeding. Kelly Santini LLP is pleased to invite insurance adjusters and other members of the insurance sector to participate in a seminar and webinar which will address the tools and knowledge essential to managing court actions in a cost effective and efficient manner.

Part I – Procedures and Steps in a Lawsuit
Part 1 of the seminar will review the procedures and steps of a lawsuit and provide an overview of the legal strategies behind the actions recommended by your defence team. The session will provide a review of actions in both civil court and in small claims court.

Part II – Preparing a File to Send to Counsel
In any insurance defence or subrogation action, preparing a thorough file and submitting it to your legal team at the appropriate time can have a dramatic impact on both the resolution of the case and the costs. The session will provide an overview of the various steps you can take early on in the adjusting of a claim to ensure a cost effective and efficient insurance defence or subrogated action.

To register for the seminar on February 15th, please click here.
To register for the webinar on March 16th, please click here.

The Ottawa Law Review Section 7 Symposium

Kelly Santini LLP is very pleased to support The Ottawa Law Review Section 7 Symposium Honouring the 25th Anniversary of Re B.C. Motor Vehicle Act. The Ottawa Law Review is a bilingual, student-run, academic legal journal, which has been recognized internationally for its excellence in publishing high quality peer reviewed articles. On February 24, 2011, in honour of the 25th anniversary of Re B.C. Motor Vehicle Act, [1985] 2 SCR 486, the Ottawa Law Review will host a symposium where former Chief Justice of Ontario, the Honourable Roy McMurtry, former Supreme Court of Canada judge, the Honourable Mr. Justice Frank Iacobucci, and leading professors of law, Nathalie Des Rosiers (attending as the executive director of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association), Kent Roach (attending from the University of Toronto Faculty of Law), Alan Young (attending from Osgoode Hall Law School, York University), David Paciocco, Adam Dodek, Martha Jackman,, and Marie-Eve Sylvestre will lecture about the past, present, and future understanding of section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Kelly Santini teams up with Children's Aid Society of Ottawa for holiday gift program

Kelly Santini LLP is proud to be supporting the important work of the Children's Aid Society this holiday season. This year, members of firm have volunteered to donate 50 gifts for the holiday gift program which helps make the holiday season a much happier time for many children and families in the Ottawa area. The Children's Aid Society of Ottawa (CAS) is a community organization legally mandated to protect children and youth from abuse and neglect.

J.P. McAvoy crowned Mr. Movember as fundraising efforts top $10,000

J.P. McAvoyCongratulations to all the team members from the Ottawa Athletic Club and Johnny Farina's who joined forces with Kelly Santini to raise funds for prostate cancer research. Together the team raised over $10,000. Read more about it in the Ottawa Citizen.

View our photos from the gala

Movember team grows and grows

Kelly Santini LLP's Movember team exceeded expectations this year with 14 members of staff joining forces with colleagues from Johnny Farina's and The Ottawa Athletic Club to raise funds for prostate cancer research. The fund raising will come to an end in style on November 30th when the Movember gala will be help to select 'Mr Movember'. More importantly, a cheque will be presented to the Prostate Association of Ottawa for more than $7500. To see full details on the team and to make a donation, please visit the Movember website.

Rick Brooks named President of the Ottawa Jazz Festival's Board of Directors

Rick BrooksCongratulations to Rick Brooks who yesterday was named President of the Ottawa Jazz Festival's Board of Directors. He also serves as the co-chair of the festival's programming committee. The annual Jazz festival began as a weekend of outdoor jazz in Major's Hill Park back in 1980 and has evolved into one of the National Capital Region's most highly anticipated musical events of the summer.

Business Law for Small Businesses – January 21, 2011, Pembroke, Ontario

Kelly Santini's managing partner Kelly Sample and Business group associate André Munroe are presenting a seminar this seminar for small businesses in Pembroke. The event is being hosted by Community Futures Development Corporation. More details to come.

Villa Marconi to honour Kelly family

Raising the Roof is Villa Marconi's annual Corporate Dinner that recognizes corporate, personal, and community excellence. The year, Villa Marconi will be honouring the Kelly family for their deep and unwavering contribution to our community. Pat Santini will be the guest speaker. In the past four years, this sold-out event has netted over $425,000 for Villa Marconi, becoming one of the largest fundraising corporate events in the community. This year's dinner takes place on November 2nd.

IMI certification for Steve Kelly

Steve KellyCongratulations to Steve Kelly who has recently been certified as a mediator by the International Mediation Institute (IMI). The IMI is a global public service initiative to drive transparency and high competency standards into mediation practice across all fields, worldwide. Steve is also a Charter Mediator with the ADR Institute of Canada and is one of the most sought after mediators in Eastern Ontario. He has been a mediator since 1992, assisting parties in a wide range of matters including commercial, bodily injury, employment, construction, and estates issues.

Rick Brooks bolsters Kelly Santini LLP’s services to businesses

Rick BrooksThe partners of Kelly Santini LLP are delighted to welcome Rick Brooks to the firm as a Partner.  Rick’s extensive experience in the areas of bankruptcy and insolvency and commercial litigation further enhances the firm’s established services for businesses.

Rick has been practicing in the areas of commercial/corporate litigation since being called to the Bar in 1979.  In that time he has established a particular reputation for his handling of bankruptcy and insolvency matters, debtor/creditor disputes and banking litigation on behalf of large financial institutions and businesses.  He also advises on the interpretation and enforcement of corporate and commercial agreements, as well as matters relating to construction, real property and personal property disputes.   Rick also handles general civil and serves as a mediator in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

Larry Kelly Named to Board of Sarona Frontier General Partner Inc.

Larry KellyThe Sarona Frontier General Partner Inc. Board of Directors is the controlling body for the Sarona Frontier Markets Fund I LP, a private equity fund of funds focussed on investing in emerging and developing country markets around the world. Sarona is an impact investment firm, seeking solid profits for its investors, along with positive social and environmental impact for the communities where it invests.

In announcing the appointment of Larry Kelly, J. Alex Hartzler, Chairman of the Board of Sarona Frontier General Partner Inc. commented "His understanding of financing, mergers and acquisitions and corporate governance are of significant benefit to the Sarona funds."

Michael D'Aloisio Named to Canadian Youth Business Foundation Loan Review Committee

Michael D'AlosioMichael D'Aloisio has been named to a Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF) loan review committee in Ottawa. CYBF is a national charity that provides youth, ages 18-34, who have a great business idea but are unable to access funds through traditional sources, with start-up financing, world-class mentoring and business resources to create and sustain their own successful business. For more information on CYBF, please click here.

Risk and Insurance Managers Society

Steve Kelly will be discussing 'Recent Legislative Changes Affecting the Insurance Industry' at the Risk and Insurance Managers Society (RIMS) breakfast meeting on November 17th.

Ottawa Time Raisers

Kelly Santini LLP is proud to be sponsoring the 3rd annual Timeraiser charity auction on November 13th at the National Gallery. This year's event aims to raise 5000 community service hours from young professionals.

Martini Madness

We are delighted to once again sponsor Martini Madness in support of the Chrohn's & Colitis Foundation of Canada. The fundraiser is taking place November 3rd at the Lago Bar at Dow's Lake.

Brain Injury Association of Ottawa Valley annual fundraising dinner

Sylvia Corthorn and Kelly Santini LLP are pleased to sponsor the fundraising dinner on October 14th, with guest speaker Alvin Law.

Legal Issues Concerning Small Businesses

On November 9th, Mike D'Aloisio is presenting at the OCRI Entrepreneurship Centre on 'legal issues concerning small businesses'.

Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade

Kelly Santini LLP is very proud to sponsoring WICC's first wine & cheese fundraiser in Ottawa on October 28th.

Ottawa Real Estate Board

Join Michael Abrams, Mike D'Aloisio and Lawrence Silber at this year's trade show on October 28th.

Special Olympics breakfast

Kelly Santini LLP is once again delighted to present the 6th annual Special Olympics Breakfast with guest Jim Ralph on October 20th at the Marriott in Ottawa.

Legal considerations when operating a small business

On September 17th, Kelly Santini LLP's Kelly Sample and André Munroe will be presenting at the Community Futures Development Corporation in Renfrew.

Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival

Good luck to Kelly Santini LLP "Tailgator's Dragons' at the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival on June 19th.

Called to the Bar

Valerie Westwick Called to BarDiem Nguyen Called to BarCongratulations go out to Valerie Westwick and Diem Nguyen, who both articled with Kelly Santini LLP, who were called to the Bar of Ontario on June 9th. Valerie is now an Associate in our Litigation group and Diem has joined the Business law group as an Associate. Kelly Santini LLP now has 23 lawyers practicing in seven core areas in our downtown Ottawa and Nepean offices.

Kelly Santini LLP Welcomes J.P. McAvoy to Business Law Group

JP McAvoy Join Kelly Santini LLP The partners of Kelly Santini LLP are pleased to announce that Jeffrey (J.P.) McAvoy has joined the firm as a Partner in the Business Law Group.

A dynamic lawyer and entrepreneur, J.P. acts for a diverse range of domestic and international clients on all types of commercial transactions, governance issues, re-organizations and related corporate work. He is also active in the local business community advising entrepreneurs and professionals on tax, trusts and estate planning issues.

Kelly Santini LLP Supports National Hockey Day at Playfair Park Ottawa

Hockey Day with Kelly Santini LLP


On January 30, 2010 a group of eager "shinny" hockey players converged on Playfair Park Ice Skating Rink to participate in activities for National Hockey Day in Canada. Through the efforts of partner Shawn O'Connor, Kelly Santini was able to help provide benches, scoreboard materials, and ribbons for both the day of festivities and future activities.

David Charles joins Kelly Santini LLP

David Charles Joins Kelly Santini LLPThe partners of Kelly Santini LLP are pleased to welcome well-known Ottawa business lawyer David Charles to the firm as a partner in its Business Law Group.

David brings with him over 30 years experience advising real estate developers, corporate counsel for federal and provincial corporations as well as banking and trust institutions, small and medium businesses, and non-profit and charitable organizations. In addition, David acts as counsel for many organizations operating within the health field where he provides advice relating to governance structure and policy formation.

New Offices for Kelly Santini LLP

On November 23rd, the downtown Ottawa office of Kelly Santini LLP moved into their new location at 160 Elgin Street. The move comes after years of steady growth for the firm and provides the facilities to meet the needs of clients today and in the years to come.

Commenting on the move, Managing Partner Kelly Sample said:
"In our 35 years as a firm, we've grown with our clients and our community. We are tremendously excited about this move not because of the success we've enjoyed, but because of the opportunities it allows us to pursue in the future."

In recent years the firm has welcomed a number of experienced lawyers to the firm, brought on-board several recent law school graduates and formed strategic partnerships with other law firms in Eastern Ontario. Today, Kelly SantiniLLP boasts 20 lawyers across nine practice areas in their downtown and west end Ottawa offices.