O’Connor v Sivacoe Estate
Terry O'Connor
Law Firm / Organization
Whitelaw Twining (WT BCA LLP)
Lawyer(s)

Cory Ryan

Patrick V. Cherak, Personal Representative of the Estate of Orlande Wayne Sivacoe, Deceased
Law Firm / Organization
Carscallen LLP
Lawyer(s)

Paul E. Reid

Background:

  • Company: D.D. Technology, Inc. (DDT US), incorporated in Washington.
  • Shares: Orlande Sivacoe issued 500 shares; Terry O'Connor received 500 shares but did not pay for them.
  • Rescission Agreement (2015): Terry agreed to rescind his shares; disputes resolved in Skagit County, Washington.
  • Florida Action: Lawsuit involving DDT US properties in Florida, settled by Sivacoe's estate representatives.

Claims:

  • Plaintiff: Ownership of 50% of DDT US shares despite the Rescission Agreement; alleges negligence by Patrick in the Florida Action settlement.
  • Defendant: Argues Alberta court lacks jurisdiction; seeks to strike claims under Alberta Rules of Court, rule 3.68.

Court's Decision:

  1. Florida Action Claims:
    • Not "plain and obvious" the claim fails; thus, not struck.
    • Terry should reconsider based on admitted facts.
  2. Ownership of DDT US Shares:
    • Jurisdiction: Accepted, but court questions exercising it.
    • Forum Selection Clause: Enforceable, favoring Washington jurisdiction.
    • Plaintiff's Burden: Terry failed to show strong reasons against the clause.

Conclusion:

  • Florida Action Claims: Application to strike dismissed.
  • Ownership Claims: Struck due to enforceable forum selection clause.
  • Costs: Each party bears its own costs due to divided success. There was no specific monetary award or damages granted in this decision.
Court of King's Bench of Alberta
2310 00189
Corporate & commercial law
Defendant