Proceedings that seek to relitigate the same factual events across multiple jurisdictions, even against different individual defendants, constitute an abuse of process where the essential claim relates to the same conduct. A vexatious litigant declaration in general terms is appropriate where a narrowly crafted order would be impractical to administer. Where proceedings are an abuse of process, the court may refuse leave to discontinue and instead permanently stay the proceedings to maintain control over its own processes. Solicitor and client costs (rather than indemnity costs) are the appropriate order where proceedings are found to be an abuse of process and a vexatious litigant declaration is made.
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