Davida Shiff

Davida's legal expertise shines brightly in the realm of litigation and dispute resolution, where she has made significant strides. Her legal journey has seen her advocating before prestigious courts such as the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and the Nova Scotia Supreme Court, alongside appearances at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal and various administrative tribunals. This wide-ranging courtroom experience underlines her adaptability and skill across different legal landscapes.

In her practice, Davida has tackled a variety of challenging cases. She played a pivotal role in representing Deloitte in a landmark class action that revolved around the misclassification of employees and alleged breach of contract. Her adept handling of complex legal arguments and her strategic approach to litigation were instrumental in navigating this high-profile case.

Another notable instance of Davida's legal acumen was her representation of a Canadian insurance company in a critical appeal. The case, which unfolded before the Ontario Court of Appeal, centered on the nuanced application of limitation periods in the denial of disability benefits. Davida's thorough understanding of insurance law and her persuasive courtroom presence were key factors in addressing this intricate legal issue.

Her expertise also extends to international litigation, as demonstrated in her defense of a foreign national bank. The case, which was initially brought before the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia and later appealed to the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal, raised complex issues of forum non conveniens and state immunity. Davida's strategic legal insights and her ability to maneuver through the intricacies of international law were evident throughout the proceedings.

Davida's involvement in the restructuring proceedings of the Essar group of companies further showcases her versatility as a litigator. Her work on this case, which spanned jurisdictions under the CCAA and Chapter 15 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, highlights her capacity to handle complex commercial disputes and her comprehensive understanding of corporate restructuring.

Her contributions to the legal field have not gone unnoticed. Davida's recognition as a "One to Watch" in corporate and commercial litigation by Best Lawyers in Canada for 2024 is a testament to her rising stature and the impact of her work.

Beyond her courtroom achievements, Davida is deeply committed to the legal community. Her pro bono work for CARFAC on copyright and trademark issues reflects her dedication to supporting artists and the creative community. Her active membership in The Advocates’ Society and her involvement with UJA’s Joshua Institute for Jewish Communal Leadership illustrate her commitment to professional development and community service.

Davida's educational background, with a JD cum laude from Harvard Law School and a BA summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania, provides a solid foundation for her legal practice. Her admission to the Ontario Bar in 2016 marked the beginning of a promising legal career that continues to flourish. Through her diverse legal engagements, Davida has demonstrated not only her legal prowess but also her commitment to justice and community service.