Childhood sexual abuse or assault can have far-reaching effects that are unique to each survivor. Survivors often experience a range of emotions, including shame, guilt, depression, and anger. For survivors who were abused by a family member, the anger can be directed toward parents or guardians who may have known about the abuse but did nothing. In such cases, survivors may want to include their parents or guardians in a civil claim.
This white paper from Hammerco Managing Partner Morgyn Chandler, “Considerations When Bringing Claims Against Family Members,” examines the causes of action that can be applied in such cases, the features that must be present for a successful claim, and how these cases have been treated in British Columbia courts. It also explores claims involving abuse by siblings, which can present particular considerations depending on the age of the children involved and whether the perpetrator was also a child at the time of the abuse.
The paper reviews recent decisions involving bystander family members and sibling perpetrators. The aim is to help lawyers draft pleadings and assess the likelihood of recovery from primary or secondary defendants.
Estate planning can be emotionally charged, especially when complex family dynamics are at play.
Hammerco Lawyers included in the 2025 Edition of The Best Lawyers in Canada™ for their top work in the legal profession and their exceptional commitment to advocating for their clients.
Estate matters can be emotionally charged and made more complex when it comes to the question of whether cultural norms and traditions can justify disinheriting one child over another.
Special considerations apply to Indigenous estates and wills made by Indigenous persons.