Veeken v. British Columbia
Paul Veeken
Law Firm / Organization
Self Represented
His Majesty the King
Law Firm / Organization
Department of Justice Canada
Lawyer(s)

Rory D. Makosz

His Majesty the King in right of the Province of British Columbia
Attorney General of Canada
Law Firm / Organization
Department of Justice Canada
Lawyer(s)

Rory D. Makosz

BC Minister of Public Safety
Law Firm / Organization
Department of Justice Canada
Lawyer(s)

Rory D. Makosz

Solicitor General
Law Firm / Organization
Department of Justice Canada
Lawyer(s)

Rory D. Makosz

Lance Bernard
Law Firm / Organization
Guild Yule LLP
Lawyer(s)

Louis J. Zivot

Heather Hughes

Background Facts: Paul Veeken was previously convicted of sexual interference, but successfully appealed the conviction, leading to a stay of proceedings on January 11, 2022. Following this, he filed a civil claim seeking damages against several parties, including the trial judge, Crown prosecutors, correctional staff, and the RCMP, for actions taken during and after his criminal trial.

Legal Arguments/Issues: The appeal arose from the dismissal of Mr. Veeken’s claims, which were grouped into three categories:

  1. Claims Related to Criminal Proceedings: Veeken challenged his prior conviction, alleging defamation, loss of privacy, unlawful detention, and negligence by various justice system actors. These claims were struck down as they disclosed no cause of action and were bound to fail.
  2. Charter of Rights Violations: He alleged violations of his rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The court dismissed these claims as too broad and vague, failing to identify specific state actors responsible.
  3. Assault and Custody Conditions: Veeken claimed he was assaulted and faced inhumane conditions while in custody. This claim was struck due to the expiry of the limitation period, but the court allowed this issue to proceed to trial due to its complexity.

Outcome: The court summarily dismissed most of Veeken’s appeal, except for the assault and custody conditions claim, which was allowed to proceed. The case was referred to the Registrar for case management. No specific award or costs were mentioned for the successful party.

Court of Appeals for British Columbia
CA49192
Civil litigation
Respondent