Jim Vigmond: A Legacy of Advocacy at One of Canada’s Top Personal Injury Law Firms in 2025

A Legacy of Advocacy

Celebrating a Distinguished Career Marked by Exceptional Advocacy and Outstanding Trial Results That Continues to Inspire Excellence at One Of Canada’s Top Personal Injury Law Firms.

One name stands out when you think of Canada’s top personal injury law firms: Jim Vigmond. As a founding partner of Oatley Vigmond, Jim has spent over four decades shaping the landscape of personal injury law in Canada. Now, gracing the cover of Canadian Lawyer, we reflect on a career defined by compassion, innovation, and landmark trial victories.

A Career Built on Compassion and Excellence

Jim began his legal journey in 1983, driven by a passion for personal injury litigation. His commitment to justice never wavered from his early days, as he joined and soon became a partner at Carroll, Heyd, Vigmond and eventually co-founded Oatley Vigmond.

One of his most influential cases came in 2007 when he secured a $12.5 million verdict, the largest in Canadian history for a spinal cord injury, on behalf of Ryan Morrison, a young man rendered paraplegic in a car accident. This spinal cord injury case not only set a legal precedent but also exemplified Jim’s dedication to achieving life-changing outcomes for his clients.

A Culture of Leadership and Innovation

Jim, alongside co-founder Roger Oatley, built Oatley Vigmond on five core values: compassion, integrity, innovation, excellence, and leadership. These values are not just words but the foundation of the firm’s approach to every case.

Unlike many firms, Oatley Vigmond prioritizes client recovery from day one. The firm pioneered a unique model by integrating experienced insurance adjusters as Accident Benefits Specialists, ensuring clients receive the treatment they need after catastrophic injuries.

Mentorship and the Next Generation

Jim’s legacy is not only in the courtroom but also in the culture he helped create. He and Roger Oatley were committed to mentoring the next generation of trial lawyers. Today, partners like Brian Cameron, Robert Durante, Adam Little, and Troy Lehman carry that torch, achieving record-setting verdicts and teaching the next wave of legal talent.

Troy Lehman, for example, joined the firm after facing off against Roger in court, impressed by the firm’s innovative use of demonstrative evidence and trial strategy. Troy now contributes to the field through his work on Addressing the Jury: Achieving Fair Verdicts in Personal Injury Cases, co-authored with Roger Oatley, Canada’s leading text on jury advocacy.

Voices of Gratitude: What Clients Say About Jim Vigmond

Throughout his career, Jim has been more than a lawyer; he’s been a lifeline for individuals and families navigating the aftermath of devastating car accidents, brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. His clients’ words speak volumes about the impact he’s had:

“Jim, you came into my life when I was at a very low point, and you gave me hope and faith again. You and your team became my strength to continue dealing with this very stressful case. My family and I will be forever grateful and thankful. You were all very professional, sincere, kind and patient. You always made me feel like I was a person and we were all fighting in this together. Thank you for not giving up on me! Thank you for restoring my faith in this system. Oatley Vigmond is the BEST!”

– Lee Ann H.

 “Jim Vigmond and his team at Oatley Vigmond were professional as well as very caring and compassionate. Nobody wants to ever be in a position to have to use personal injury lawyers, but when they are needed, you want the best… and I was fortunate to have them. We have become very close over the last three and a half years. We treat them as family. I have never seen a team work so hard as Jim’s team did. We are just glad we had them on our side!”

– Ryan Morrison

A Lasting Impact

As Jim steps into retirement, he does so with the confidence that the firm he helped build will continue to thrive. His passion for philanthropy, belief in giving back, and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on the legal community.

Jim’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and profound impact. His legacy lives on in every case Oatley Vigmond takes on, every client they support, and every young lawyer they inspire.