Respondent
Petitioner
Background:
Andres Amado G. Ruiz filed a petition against the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, also referred to as the Roman Catholic Church in Canada, seeking the abolition of the Church and the seizure of its assets due to allegations of child molestation by its members. The petition also included claims for personal compensation and matters related to Mr. Ruiz's immigration status.
Legal Issues:
Key legal issues included the scope of the Court's jurisdiction, whether the petition disclosed a valid legal claim, and whether seizure and forfeiture of property could be ordered based on alleged criminal activities by the Church. Mr. Ruiz cited section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Criminal Code, and other statutes, but the Court found no legal basis for these claims.
Court's Analysis:
The Court determined it lacked jurisdiction over several claims, especially regarding Mr. Ruiz's immigration status. It also ruled that the petition failed to disclose a claim that could be brought by petition under Rule 2-1(2) of the Supreme Court Civil Rules. Additionally, the assets targeted were not clearly owned by the named respondent.
Outcome:
The Court struck the petition and dismissed the proceeding. No costs were awarded, as neither party sought them, and each party bore their own costs.
Court
Supreme Court of British ColumbiaCase Number
S247391Practice Area
Civil litigationAmount
Winner
RespondentTrial Start Date
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