Question 1

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, you have 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit under the Limitations Act, 2002. However, claims against municipalities require written notice within 10 days. For minors, the 2-year period doesn't start until they turn 18. Don't wait—contact a lawyer immediately to protect your rights.

Question 2

How much is my personal injury case worth?

Accepted Answer

Personal injury settlements in Ontario vary widely based on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Minor injuries may settle for $10,000-$50,000, moderate injuries $50,000-$150,000, serious injuries $150,000-$500,000, and catastrophic injuries over $1 million. Ontario has a "deductible" that reduces pain and suffering awards under $138,000 by approximately $43,000.

Question 3

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

After a car accident: 1) Ensure safety and call 911 if anyone is injured, 2) Document everything with photos, 3) Exchange information with other drivers, 4) Get witness contact details, 5) Report to police if damage exceeds $2,000, 6) Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, 7) Contact your insurance company, and 8) Consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement.

Question 4

Do I need a lawyer for a personal injury claim?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, having an experienced personal injury lawyer typically increases settlements by 2-3 times compared to handling claims alone. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency—you pay nothing unless you win. Free consultations help you understand your rights.

Question 5

What is Ontario's no-fault insurance system?

Accepted Answer

Ontario's "no-fault" system means you claim certain benefits (Statutory Accident Benefits) from your OWN insurance company regardless of who caused the accident. This includes income replacement, medical benefits, and attendant care. You can STILL sue the at-fault driver for additional compensation if your injuries meet the threshold for "permanent serious impairment."

Question 6

What if I was hit by an uninsured driver?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, your own insurance policy includes mandatory "Uninsured Automobile Coverage" that protects you when the at-fault driver is uninsured, underinsured, or flees the scene (hit-and-run). This coverage provides up to $200,000 for your injuries. Report hit-and-runs to police within 24 hours and contact your own insurance company to file a claim.

Question 7

How long does a personal injury case take to settle?

Accepted Answer

Minor injury cases with clear liability often settle within 6-12 months. Moderate cases typically take 1-2 years. Complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability can take 2-4 years or longer. Don't settle too quickly—early offers from insurance companies are usually far below fair value.

Question 8

Do I need a lawyer to buy a house in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, having a real estate lawyer is strongly recommended and practically essential in Ontario. Your lawyer reviews the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, conducts title searches, arranges title insurance, handles the mortgage closing, registers the deed, and ensures a smooth transfer of ownership. Most lenders require a lawyer to close the mortgage.

Question 9

What are typical real estate lawyer fees in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Real estate lawyer fees in Toronto typically range from $800-$1,500 for standard residential transactions (purchases or sales). This usually includes title searches, preparation of documents, registration fees, and closing. Additional costs may apply for complex transactions, commercial properties, or rush closings. Always get a detailed quote upfront.

Question 10

What is title insurance and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Title insurance protects against losses from title defects, fraud, survey issues, and other problems discovered after you purchase property. While not legally required, most lenders mandate it, and it provides protection unavailable through other means. A one-time premium (typically $250-$500 for residential) covers you as long as you own the property.

Question 11

What happens on closing day for a home purchase?

Accepted Answer

On closing day, your lawyer: registers the transfer of deed, pays the seller the balance of funds, registers your mortgage, pays land transfer taxes, and gives you the keys. You should have your down payment and closing costs in the lawyer's trust account 1-2 days before closing. Your lawyer will provide a detailed statement of adjustments.

Question 12

How long does a divorce take in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

An uncontested divorce in Ontario typically takes 4-6 months from filing to final order. Contested divorces involving disputes over property, custody, or support can take 1-3 years or longer. You must be separated for at least 1 year to file for divorce on grounds of separation (the most common grounds in Canada).

Question 13

How is child custody determined in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Ontario courts determine custody based on the "best interests of the child," considering factors like: the child's emotional ties and relationships, each parent's ability to provide care, the child's views (depending on age), stability of living arrangements, and each parent's willingness to facilitate the child's relationship with the other parent. Courts generally favor arrangements that maintain both parents' involvement.

Question 14

How is spousal support calculated in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Spousal support in Ontario is calculated using the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG), which consider: length of marriage, income disparity between spouses, presence of children, and the recipient's ability to become self-sufficient. The formula produces a range of amounts and durations. For longer marriages (20+ years), support may be indefinite.

Question 15

What is a separation agreement and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A separation agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines how separating couples will handle property division, debts, spousal support, child custody, and child support. While not legally required, a separation agreement provides certainty, avoids costly litigation, and can be incorporated into your divorce. Both parties should have independent legal advice.

Question 16

What is Express Entry and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Express Entry is Canada's main immigration system for skilled workers. You create an online profile and receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on age, education, language ability, and work experience. Candidates with the highest scores receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. Most draws require CRS scores of 450-500+.

Question 17

How long does the family sponsorship process take?

Accepted Answer

Spouse/partner sponsorship typically takes 12-18 months for applications processed outside Canada. Parent and grandparent sponsorship can take 24-36 months due to high demand and limited spaces. The Super Visa offers a faster alternative for parents/grandparents, allowing visits of up to 5 years per entry.

Question 18

Can I work in Canada while my PR application is processing?

Accepted Answer

If you're inside Canada and have submitted a complete permanent residence application, you may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP), which allows you to work for any employer. You need a valid work permit that will expire within 4 months, or expired status but maintained implied status. Contact an immigration lawyer for eligibility.

Question 19

What happens if my immigration application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your application is refused, you typically have options: request reconsideration (limited circumstances), file for judicial review at Federal Court within 15-60 days depending on location, address the issues and reapply, or explore alternative immigration pathways. An immigration lawyer can advise on the best course of action.

Question 20

What happens if I die without a will in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

If you die without a will ("intestate") in Ontario, your estate is distributed according to the Succession Law Reform Act. Your spouse receives the first $350,000, with the remainder split between spouse and children. Without a spouse, assets go to children, then parents, then siblings, etc. The court appoints an estate administrator, and the process is more expensive and time-consuming.

Question 21

How much does it cost to make a will in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Simple wills from a lawyer typically cost $300-$500 per person. More complex wills involving trusts, business assets, or blended families may cost $1,000-$2,500+. Online will services are cheaper but may not address Ontario-specific requirements or complex situations. Always include Powers of Attorney (typically $200-$400) for property and personal care.

Question 22

What is probate and how long does it take in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Probate is the court process that validates a will and authorizes the executor to administer the estate. In Ontario, you must apply for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee. Processing takes 2-6 months depending on court backlogs. Probate fees are 1.5% of estate value over $50,000. Some assets (joint accounts, beneficiary designations) bypass probate.

Question 23

What is a Power of Attorney and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A Power of Attorney (POA) authorizes someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Ontario has two types: POA for Property (financial decisions) and POA for Personal Care (health/living decisions). Without POAs, your family must apply to court for guardianship—an expensive, lengthy process. Everyone over 18 should have both.

Question 24

How much does a lawyer cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Legal fees vary by practice area. Personal injury lawyers typically work on contingency (no upfront cost, 25-33% of settlement). Real estate transactions are usually fixed fee ($800-$1,500). Family lawyers charge hourly ($250-$500/hour) or flat fees for uncontested matters. Many lawyers offer free initial consultations—always ask about fee structures upfront.

Question 25

What areas does Kanevsky Law Office serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve clients throughout the Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Oshawa, and surrounding areas. Our office is located at 4580 Dufferin Street, North York. We offer virtual consultations for clients who cannot visit in person.

Question 26

How do I schedule a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

Schedule a free consultation by calling us at 416-252-9937, emailing olga.lawyer@gmail.com, or filling out the contact form on our website. We respond to inquiries within 24 hours during business hours. Free consultations are available for personal injury cases and most other practice areas.

Question 27

What should I bring to my first meeting with a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Bring all relevant documents: accident reports, medical records, insurance information, contracts, correspondence, photos, and a timeline of events. Bring a list of questions and be prepared to discuss your situation honestly. For personal injury cases, bring information about lost wages, medical expenses, and how injuries have affected your daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Personal Injury Questions

Real Estate Law Questions

Family Law Questions

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Wills & Estates Questions

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