FAQs

Q: How should I go about retaining Harris & Brun?

A: The best way to retain our firm is to phone the paralegal or assistant of the Harris & Brun lawyer you wish to retain. A retainer only occurs after your lawyer has discussed your case with you, has been fully informed about the facts of the case, and has agreed to act for you. Do not send any documents, whether by e-mail, fax or mail, unless and until Harris & Brun have agreed to act for you. Please see our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for further information.

Q: Can a firm that acts regularly for “both sides” (i.e., plaintiffs and insurance companies) effectively represent me in my case?

A: The past 25 years have seen a polarization between the plaintiff’s bar and the defence bar in the Province of British Columbia. Harris & Brun prides itself in being an exception to this rule. Our combination of skill, professionalism, tenacity and civility has allowed us to forge relationships on both sides.

At Harris & Brun we believe that working for plaintiffs makes us better defence lawyers, and working for insurance companies makes us better plaintiffs’ lawyers.

As hard-fought as any particular case might be, the vast majority of all cases are eventually settled out of court. At Harris & Brun, the regard in which we are held by counsel and representatives of both sides, allows us to obtain effective settlements on behalf of our clients during negotiation and mediation.

Q: How important is trial skill in a civil litigation lawyer?

A: Very important! Although most cases are settled out of court, the ability of your lawyer to make an effective settlement agreement will depend in part upon the esteem in which your lawyer is held by his or her opposing counsel and party.

At Harris & Brun, our lawyers have been fighting in court for injured accident victims and insurance companies for decades. We have an excellent track record in Supreme Court trials, involving both judge and jury, and appellate hearings in the Court of Appeal. Partner Robert Brun argued and won a case in the Supreme Court of Canada in 1981 shortly after his call to the bar in 1978. Partner Lyle Harris appeared as counsel during a commission of inquiry into a wrongful conviction for murder in Manitoba; the recommendations of the commission included for compensation for the wrongly convicted victim of $2.66 million.

Although an out-of-court settlement is usually in the best interests of all parties, Harris & Brun lawyers will not hesitate to take a case to court if they think the potential settlement is unfair.

Q: Why should I choose a small firm, as opposed to a bigger firm for my case?

A: At Harris & Brun, we are a boutique firm of six lawyers and approximately nine paralegals as well as legal secretaries, clerks, an accountant and an office manager. We believe that we are able to offer a breadth of excellence and experience at a reasonable price. Whether your case is an ordinary case or an extremely complex case, we will be able to match our expertise and level of experience to you!