Google: a Tale of Two Continents
It is the best of times and the worst of times for Google. Its internet search engine has become a meme; its mobile operating system, Android, now powers 80.7% of the world’s smartphones. But Google’s very success brings unwelcome scrutiny from antitrust authorities. In free market North America, Google easily resolved concerns of Canadian and US competition authorities over its search engine and advertising practices by changing certain exclusionary contractual terms. The revolutionary fervour of European authorities was not so easily quenched. The European Commission alleges in two proceedings that Google abused its dominant position in relation to its comparison shopping service ... [more] Full article
The Steam Clears in Bureau’s Investigation of Direct Energy
The latest development in the Ontario water heater rental saga, the Competition Bureau has announced that it has reached an agreement with Direct Energy Marketing Limited that will both penalize ... [more] Full article
Rogers-NHL Broadcasting Agreement Not Off-Side
The exclusive national broadcasting agreement between Rogers Communications Inc. (Rogers) and the National Hockey League (NHL) raises no competition concerns at this time, the Competition Bureau has announced. The 12-year, ... [more] Full article
Not out of hot water: Direct Energy’s exit does not end abuse case
The exit of a respondent in an abuse of dominance case does not mean the case cannot continue, the Competition Tribunal held recently. In 2012, the Commissioner of Competition launched ... [more] Full article
Abuse of Dominance 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.”
David N. Vaillancourt
David's practice expertise focuses on all matters of Commercial and Civil Litigation, Competition and Administrative Law. David has acted for clients in a wide range of disputes, including shareholder and partnership disputes, securities litigation, class action defence, proceedings under the Competition Act, employment law disputes, contract disputes, breach of confidence/intellectual property disputes, fidelity bond claims, and professional negligence claims. David has appeared before all levels of court in Ontario, including the Court of Appeal for Ontario, and has also appeared before the Competition Tribunal and the Federal Court of Appeal. David has appeared as lead counsel in numerous trials, hearings, and motions. David has been successful in numerous adversarial proceedings, and also has successfully negotiated the resolution of dozens of cases.
