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2h ago

Steven Galloway’s Defamation Trial Opens in Vancouver

The case will probe the line between public accusations and legal remedies for reputational harm as the accuser does not testify.

People walk past large letters spelling out UBC at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver on Nov. 22, 2015. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
The Law Courts building, which is home to B.C. Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, is seen in Vancouver, on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Overview

  • The trial began Monday in B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver with four defendants remaining: Mandi Gray, Dana Kagis, Glynnis Kirchmeier and the accuser known as A. B.
  • A. B. will not give evidence and her lawyer told the court he will not rely on the defences of truth or fair comment, citing reasons related to her welfare.
  • Several earlier defendants have settled and issued public apologies, including former student Chelsea Rooney who said she regretted her role in spreading the allegations.
  • Steven Galloway is scheduled to testify this week and the trial is expected to run about 20 days.
  • The case follows UBC’s 2016 firing of Galloway and an independent review that found the assault allegation could not be established on a balance of probabilities and it could shape how courts balance free expression with a person’s right to defend their reputation.