Dirty Diesel: The Challenge of Isolating Compensable Losses in a Motion for Certification
In 2015, the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States (EPA) made waves when it determined that millions of Volkswagen “clean diesel” cars sold worldwide were cheating government emissions tests. By using something called a “defeat device” in their diesel engines, these cars were capable of changing their performance upon detecting that they were being tested, thereby improving test results. In reality, these cars emitted pollutants at levels 25 to 40 times higher than the legal limit. In Mackinnon v. Volkswagen Group Canada, Inc ., 2021 ONSC 5941, Justice Edward Belobaba of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice denied certification ... [more] Full article
Directors Fined Personally in FlightHub DRIP Pricing Settlement
In our Competition Law Year In Review 2019, we reported on Canada’s Competition Bureau’s interim consent agreement with FlightHub prohibiting it from using misleading marketing practices on its websites. On ... [more] Full article
Bogus trial offer scheme lands business $15 million fine
A Canadian Competition Bureau investigation concluded that Revive You Media operated a subscription trap scam. It provided the false impression on its websites that consumers were ordering free trials without ... [more] Full article
Facebook pays $9 million fine for allowing sharing of personal data with 3rd party apps
Following a record-breaking $5 billion (US) penalty imposed by the US Federal Trade Commission in July 2019, Facebook agreed to pay a $9 million (Canadian) penalty to settle allegations that ... [more] Full article
Fines & Settlements Contributors
Michael Binetti
Michael Binetti, a partner of the firm, brings a proven litigation background plus extensive experience in arguing both trials and appeals. He has demonstrated his strategic legal capability and expertise in wide-ranging areas of litigation. Michael’s peers and clients have commented that Michael is an “excellent and creative lawyer,” “finds unique solutions to complex problems,” and that “Michael gets it and knows how to win.”
Ardita Sinojmeri
Ardita joins Affleck Greene McMurtry LLP as an Associate Lawyer after completing her articles with the firm. Her growing practice encompasses a broad range of litigation matters including securities litigation, insurance defence, employment disputes, and shareholder disputes. Ardita earned her Juris Doctor from Western University’s Faculty of Law. Prior to joining the firm, she participated in a number of initiatives aimed at helping individuals and businesses struggling through COVID-19. Ardita looks forward to putting her legal, business, and community engagement skills to use in all the firm’s practice areas.
