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22 www.canadianlawyermag.com TOP PERSONAL INJURY BOUTIQUES 2026 "That removed doubt about what he could or couldn't do." With the impact established and supported by objective evidence, the insurer accepted the claim. The matter resolved for a multimillion-dollar amount. Bergeron Clifford LLP A disciplined litigation approach is matched by close, ongoing involvement in the clients' recovery. Feedback highlights a team that prepares files with care, communicates consistently, and remains engaged beyond the legal process, including supporting reha- bilitation where needed. What CL voters said: • "They have the client's best interest at heart and put their money where their mouth is, funding necessary services when declined by the insurer or when other funding is not available, such as paying for case management on a non- catastrophic file without optional bene- fits, because that is what is needed to get rehab off the ground." When trial is the only path forward Intake and early case assessment From the outset, Bergeron Clifford under- stood both the strength of the claim and the resistance it would face. The case arose from what should have been a routine outpatient procedure that resulted in immediate injury and long-term consequences. "We knew this case would be fought strenuously by the CMPA … but we believed in the case," says partner Warren WhiteKnight. The client experienced chronic pain, func- tional limitations, and loss of employment, ultimately relocating to manage the financial impact. The consequences extended across all aspects of her life and her family. The central issue at intake was not whether the injury could be proven, but whether the firm was prepared to carry the case through a fully contested process. Building the case The evidentiary strategy was built for trial WHAT VOTERS VALUE MOST IN PERSONAL INJURY FIRMS from the start. It included expert evidence on standard of care, causation, economic loss, and medical impac t, suppor ted by close work with treating physicians and specialists. "The most decisive evidence was that of her specialists who saw her in the immediate af termath of the injur y," WhiteKnight says. T h o s e e a r l y c l i n i c a l o b s e r vat i o n s became central to establishing both causa- tion and the extent of the harm. Prepara- tion was continuous and structured to withstand a full defence. Negotiation and resolution There were no negotiations. "The defence never offered a penny," WhiteKnight says. With no settlement position advanced, the firm proceeded on the basis that the case would be decided at trial. Strategy was not shaped by the prospect of resolu- tion but by the need to present the case in full. "The only thing to do is put your head down and work hard and prepare your case for trial, without fear." After 10 years of litigation, the matter was resolved at trial, with a result just under $2 million. The outcome turned on the strength of the evidence and the ability to present a case that the court accepted as both cred- ible and grounded in common sense. "The playing field has tilted in favour of insurers vis-à-vis who gains the benefit of delay" Edward Bergeron, Bergeron Clifford LLP SPECIAL REPORT Client-first approach • "They treat you like a person, not a file." Communication that clients can understand • "They explained everything from A to Z, making sure that we were informed every step of the way." Compassion and human connection • "They treated me with respect, kindness, and compassion; the team is always available whenever you have any questions." Going beyond legal representation • "Support beyond legal advice, including helping connect clients with medical care or rehabilitation resources." Responsiveness and accessibility • "Quick responses to any questions and always available to review and ask questions." Results that matter • "They consistently deliver outstanding results while providing exceptional client service." Trial readiness and litigation strength • "The firm actually goes to trial and fights for clients." Persistence and refusal to back down • "They never give up." • "Never stopped fighting for my mom's case." Integrity and ethical standards • "Honest, straightforward. They have the best interests of their client at heart." Attention to detail and preparation • "Meticulous in their attention to detail; files are complete."