David D. Risling, K.C.

David Risling is an experienced litigator with a talent for negotiating and finding creative resolutions for his clients. He is a member of the Executive Committee at McLennan Ross, and focuses his practice on insurance, education, and labour and employment.

With deep knowledge of the insurance industry, David represents and advises insurers on a variety of insurance matters, including coverage, liability, and quantum issues. He handles files involving personal injury, negligence law, professional liability, product liability, breach of contract, and property matters. He has also defended employers for the intentional torts of employees and in constitutional challenges.

David is clear with his opinions to ensure his clients thoroughly understand his recommendations and know their options. He takes the time to explain the challenges they face and what is happening at every step. His clients include large insurers operating inside and outside Alberta, as well as claims personnel of large self-insured corporations.

In addition, David is a strong advocate for corporations and institutions in various commercial disputes including contractual disputes and insurance coverage issues and assists school districts in education law matters. In the area of employment and labour law, he assists employers in cases of terminations and related arbitrations due to misconduct as well as human rights issues such as sexual and racial discrimination.

With a diverse litigation practice, David finds resolutions for his clients both in and outside of the court system. He has appeared before the Supreme Court of Canada, the Alberta Court of Appeal, Queen's Bench and Provincial Court and has been involved in several trials, including a lengthy jury trial. His experience also covers alternative dispute resolution methods, with many successful Judicial Dispute Resolutions, mediations, and arbitrations.

Approachable and down-to-earth, David spends time at the beginning of a file making sure his clients are comfortable and feel confident they can call him anytime with questions or to provide information. He strives to achieve this comfort level so information is always flowing, and communication is solid. His focus is on getting the best resolution at the most logical time in the process because David’s ultimate goal is always a happy client.