Businesses face wide-ranging issues as the world responds to the COVID‑19 pandemic. Here is the latest guidance from Torys.
The COVID-19 crisis and related social distancing measures continue to transform business and workplace realities.
Our latest guidance discusses the risks of legal liability that businesses might encounter in the COVID-19 era, focusing on: contractual liability, including for non-performance and in respect of consumers; tort risk (civil liability in Québec) for exposing customers and/or employees to the virus; liability risks that arise from employees working from home; and class action risk.
Beyond their impact on business, social distancing measures have affected court processes, suspending their operations in many cases. This in turn is both expanding the availability of virtual hearings and encouraging parties to resolve their disputes through alternative means.
Our litigation report covers changes to court services, filing deadlines, and limitation periods to commence civil claims across Ontario, Québec, Alberta, British Columbia, and in the federal courts.
Emergency procedures in recognition of social distancing are also being adopted in the United States, with a patchwork of jurisdiction-specific measures implemented to restrict courthouse access and suspend limitation periods.
As parties look advance ongoing disputes, we explore the benefits arbitration may offer as a complete or partial solution in this current environment.
Read all our COVID-19 guidance for organizations on torys.com.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
