Pate Estate v. Galway-Cavendish and Harvey (Townships)
Wrongful Dismissal: $550k Punitive Damages for Withheld Evidence
Summary
This wrongful dismissal case involved a municipal employer who terminated the plaintiff and accused them of criminal misconduct while withholding exculpatory evidence. The court found the employer's conduct to be intentional, morally repugnant, and reprehensible, justifying an increase in punitive damages to $550,000 to punish the employer and deter similar conduct by government entities.
Outcome
Award increased to $550,000 in punitive damages
Award
$550,000 in punitive damages
Key Factors
- wrongful dismissal
- punitive damages
- withholding exculpatory evidence
- municipal employer
- reprehensible conduct
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Ontario Severance is an educational tool. If you are facing a serious employment law matter, consult with a qualified employment lawyer in Ontario.