Andrew Kavanagh

Andrew's legal expertise spans an impressive array of civil litigation and dispute resolution, emphasizing intricate corporate and commercial issues. In his practice, he adeptly navigates clients through the murky waters of both domestic and international arbitration, tackling contractual disagreements, construction-related litigation, class action lawsuits, and conflicts over real estate. His clientele is diverse, stretching across sectors such as mining, construction, banking, and pharmaceuticals, showcasing his versatility in addressing industry-specific legal challenges.

Moreover, Andrew dedicates a portion of his practice to pro bono work, offering his legal prowess to non-profit organizations in need of guidance. His commitment to serving the community is evident in his willingness to represent those who might not otherwise have access to legal support.

In the courtroom and beyond, Andrew has successfully represented clients at every judicial level within British Columbia, as well as in front of both domestic and international arbitration panels. His journey with Blakes began in 2016 as a summer student, followed by a significant clerkship where he served six justices of the Supreme Court of British Columbia. This experience enriched his understanding of the legal system, setting a solid foundation for his subsequent return to Blakes and the completion of his legal training.

Among his notable cases, Andrew has defended a major energy infrastructure project against a staggering C$500-million ICC arbitration claim. He's also represented a luxury hotel chain in a complex international arbitration under a hotel management agreement and supported Lyft in overcoming a legal challenge that threatened its operations in British Columbia. Further demonstrating his legal acumen, Andrew played a pivotal role in a dispute concerning the sale of mining assets in Mongolia, which was adjudicated under LCIA arbitration rules.

Andrew's involvement in landmark cases extends to his participation as an intervenor in the Supreme Court of Canada on behalf of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the notable Uber v. Heller case. His experience also includes assisting Carillion Canada in navigating claims related to the construction of a high-voltage transmission line amid corporate restructuring.

His professional affiliations with the Canadian Bar Association, the Vancouver Bar Association, and The Advocates' Society highlight his active engagement with the legal community. Andrew's commitment to justice and excellence in legal practice is further evidenced by his regular contribution to Access Pro Bono, where he provides invaluable legal services to those in need.

Andrew's educational background includes a JD from the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, where he graduated in 2017, and a Bachelor of Commerce (With Distinction) from the University of Alberta, earned in 2013. His admission to the British Columbia Bar in 2019 marked the beginning of his professional journey in law, where he continues to make significant contributions to the field through his practice in arbitration, class actions, commercial litigation, construction dispute resolution, and broader litigation and dispute resolution areas.