Vivian E. Rachlis

Vivian (she/her) brings a unique combination of interpersonal skills, empathy and persistence to the Firm’s workplace investigation and other neutral work. Vivian skillfully engages with witnesses and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and assesses complex situations, while maintaining a constant focus on the boundaries essential to neutral work. Vivian has also been relied on by regulators and regulatory tribunals for advice relating to their complaints and investigations processes. She has expertise in dealing with the unique challenges occurring in the health sector.

Vivian has practiced law for 37 years. In her previous roles as an advocate serving clients in multiple sectors, and as a senior lawyer within a large public entity, Vivian’s clients appreciated her specialized knowledge and professionalism when undergoing high conflict, multi-stakeholder processes. Vivian also brings her lengthy experience as a labour and employment lawyer, often advising institutions and employers about their respectful and other workplace obligations, to her current role.

Vivian has been nationally recognized by inclusion in the Health Care Law category from 2014 to current editions of Best Lawyers®.

Vivian has been actively involved with the community and has committed herself to her profession, as an instructor, committee member and tribunal member. She is a member of the Manitoba Law Society’s Admissions and Education Committee; Admissions and Education Appeals and Trust Safety Appeals Sub-Committees; and the President’s Special Committee on Health and Wellness. Vivian also serves on the United Way of Winnipeg’s Executive and Board of Trustees, and chairs the United Way’s Community Investment Committee.

 

Rebecca M. Thomson

Rebecca (she/her) is an associate lawyer with Rachlis Neville LLP and assists with all aspects of workplace, institutional and regulatory investigations. Rebecca applies strong project management principles to all of the Firm’s investigations, which promotes efficiency and timeliness. Prior to joining Rachlis Neville LLP, Rebecca practised with another Winnipeg firm, specializing in corporate and commercial law.

Before going to law school, Rebecca obtained a bachelor’s degree in History of Art from the University of Winnipeg, where she was awarded the Gold Medal in her program. She obtained a law degree from Robson Hall Faculty of Law. Upon her Call to the Manitoba Bar, she was awarded the A. Montague Israels, Q.C. Prize.

Rebecca is deeply committed to the community and to Manitoba, and volunteers with a number of organizations including United Way Winnipeg and the Winnipeg Art Gallery.