Conflict of laws, or private international law as it is sometimes called, takes on greater importance with each passing year. Globalization is eroding borders in commercial transactions and family relationships, yet much law remains highly territorial. Stephen Pitel and Nicholas Rafferty have written a highly readable and thoughtful treatise that explains and analyzes the rules of the conflict of laws in force in common law Canada in a clear and concise manner. Understanding the conflict of laws allows lawyers, judges, scholars, and students to better address any legal situation that crosses borders, whether international or interprovincial.

For the second edition, the chapter on jurisdiction has been rewritten in light of the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Club Resorts Ltd v Van Breda (2012) and the evolving jurisprudence under the Court Jurisdiction and Proceedings Transfer Act. In addition, a new chapter on matrimonial property division has been added. All chapters have been updated to reflect new decisions, legislative changes, and recent scholarship.