Team

Rajinder Sahota

Raj is a strategic and respected litigator with a reputation for tackling difficult cases with precision and resolve. He has played a leading role in some of British Columbia’s most significant class action lawsuits, helping achieve justice for large groups of individuals harmed by corporate or institutional wrongdoing. He brings this same focus and tenacity to every case, no matter the size, and he’s known for building strong, trust-based relationships with his clients.

When not working, Rajinder enjoys spending time with family and staying involved in the community he serves. He’s particularly interested in issues of social justice, both locally and abroad, and often provides pro-bono legal services to progressive, local organizations striving to bring about positive social change.

Education

Master of Laws (LL.M.) – London School of Economics

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Victoria

Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) – University of Victoria

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia​

Sonny Sidhu

Since being called to the bar in 2010, Sonny has been a dedicated lawyer, exclusively representing plaintiffs in personal injury claims. His lifelong interest in the mind and human behaviour led him to earn a degree in psychology from SFU before pursuing his legal studies at UBC Law, where he honed his skills in advocacy, trial procedure, and dispute resolution. This unique background, coupled with his drive and focus, makes him a skilled negotiator and a fierce advocate for clients facing life’s toughest challenges.

Sonny has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and judgments, tirelessly fighting for individuals and families who have been wronged. Whether negotiating or in the courtroom, he is relentless in his pursuit of the best possible outcome for his clients.

Outside of law, Sonny has a deep enthusiasm for fitness and health. Soccer, a passion he’s had since childhood, remains a central part of his life, along with yoga, meditation, and regular workouts that help him stay balanced, focused, and disciplined. He’s also an avid reader, constantly exploring new books and ideas. His love for reading extends beyond legal texts; he immerses himself in a wide range of subjects—from psychology and philosophy to personal development and science—always seeking to broaden his perspective and deepen his understanding of the world. This lifelong pursuit of knowledge fuels both his personal growth and professional drive.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of British Columba

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – Simon Fraser University

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia​

Patrick Dudding

Patrick is a fierce and committed advocate who thrives on representing individuals in complex, high-stakes cases. With a strong focus on leveling the playing field, he dedicates his practice to fighting for the underdog and achieving meaningful outcomes for his clients.

Before joining Avize, Patrick built a strong foundation in both criminal defense in Toronto and insurance defense in Vancouver. His return to Victoria was driven by a desire to serve the community he calls home—helping everyday British Columbians navigate the legal system and access justice.

Patrick brings a strategic edge to every file. He combines deep legal insight with innovative use of technology, a proven track record in challenging cases, and a relentless work ethic that consistently pushes past obstacles.

Outside the courtroom, Patrick is an avid hiker, runner, and film enthusiast who makes the most of the West Coast lifestyle.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Toronto​

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – University of British Columbia​

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia​

Emanuela Bocancea

Thoughtful and tenacious, Emanuela takes pride in guiding clients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. She brings a client-first approach to her practice, combining compassion with sharp legal reasoning to deliver results that matter.

Before joining Avize, Emanuela gained experience across a wide range of legal areas, including personal injury, insurance litigation, and civil disputes. Her diverse background gives her a broad perspective and a practical edge—skills she uses to solve problems creatively and efficiently.

Outside of work, Emanuela enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Victoria

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Archaeology

Master of Arts (M.A.) – Classical Archaeology

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – University of Alberta

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia

Keith Schille

Keith is a passionate, empathetic, and ambitious advocate who never loses sight of what his job is really about: protecting and promoting the wellbeing of his clients. Adopting a pragmatic, individualized approach to each case, he is equally comfortable fighting towards a swift and effective resolution of his clients’ issues through negotiation as he is bringing his clients’ claims to the courts of British Columbia, whether in front of a judge or jury.

Although Keith’s work with Avize spans multiple practice areas, his focus on helping everyday people find justice never waivers. Whether you’ve been denied long-term disability benefits you’re rightfully owed, suffered injury through someone else’s negligence or attacks, or been wrongfully left out of a will, Keith’s calm and compassionate approach will leave you feeling empowered by our justice system—not lost in it.

Outside the office, Keith can usually be found enjoying Vancouver Island’s many hikes and hidden camping spots or soaking up live music with his friends and family.  

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Victoria

Bachelor of Arts (B.A) – University of Manitoba

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia

Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia

Danielle Truant

Danielle thrives under pressure and is a relentless advocate for her clients. Never one to back down from a challenge, Danielle brings her intense competitiveness, concentrated focus, and unyielding work ethic to each case she handles. Danielle is a dedicated ally that her clients can trust and depend on in their time of need.

Before becoming a lawyer, Danielle worked for a municipality where her unwillingness to allow injustices to stand and her track record of repeatedly challenging policies and practices that were unfair led to her election as her union’s youngest Chief Shop Steward. This experience solidified Danielle’s desire to dedicate her life to standing up for those who need help by confronting issues head-on, on their behalf.

Danielle’s life outside the office is centred around her family and athletics. Rooted in her lifelong love of sport and competition, Danielle is an avid runner, cyclist, and swimmer and competes in triathlons on and off the Island whenever her schedule allows. When not chasing down Strava segments and PRs, you can find Danielle with her husband and family—usually doing something outside and reveling in the beauty that Vancouver Island has to offer.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Victoria

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – University of the Fraser Valley

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia​

Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia

Brady Johnson

Brady has dedicated his career to helping everyday people exercise their legal rights and overcome the power imbalances they face when dealing with powerful entities such as insurance companies. He’s known for a zealous, detail-oriented approach and doesn’t shy away from the courtroom, if necessary to advance his clients’ interests.

Before attending law school and later joining Avize in 2020, Brady spent a number of years working as a commodity trader for Canada’s largest grain company, where he developed strong negotiation and analytical skills. Because of this experience, Brady’s team members often involve him in matters involving significant economic complexity.

Beyond work, Brady spends as much time as possible cycling, running, and hiking—much of which he enjoys with his family in the Cowichan Valley, where they live.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) – University of Victoria

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) – Brigham Young University

Professional Memberships and Appointments

The Law Society of British Columbia​

Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia

Deborah Acheson

Sean Sweeney

Natalie Foley