Frequently Asked Questions

In most situations, there are very strict time limits in which claims must be issued or notices served. It is wise to consult a lawyer immediately after an accident or insurance denial to ensure that time frames are not missed.

Canadian law today is very specialized. It is integral to the success of your case that you consult with a lawyer who has the proper knowledge and experience in dealing with the field of your inquiry. Clients should be very wary of lawyers who are known as “dabblers”—these lawyers will usually handle anything that comes through the door. Competent general practitioners will always refer matters beyond their scope of practice to firms specializing in the area that you require expertise. The dedicated team of lawyers at Singer Kwinter are specialized in dealing with serious personal injuries, disability, property loss and insurance claims.

Although you are not required to hire a lawyer when dealing with an insurance company, you will be at a severe disadvantage if you choose to go without one. Insurance companies retain professional adjusters that work in the company’s best interests; while they may claim that they want to assist you, the bottom line is that they are hired to save the insurance company money. In the case of an injury, you could not know the true value of your claim without proper legal advice. Retaining a lawyer can result in a substantially higher settlement for you. The lawyers at Singer Kwinter are here for you, dedicated to obtaining the full compensation that you deserve.

Hiring a lawyer does not mean your case will go to trial. A highly competent lawyer will work hard to settle all cases outside of the courtroom. At Singer Kwinter, we are ready to take your case to trial, if necessary, to achieve the best possible outcome. We have taken cases all the way to the Superior Court of Canada.

Any one of our lawyers who are experts in the area of your specific claim will handle your case. In addition to the lawyers handling your claim, we maintain a large staff of professional legal assistants and law clerks that are there to assist you with your case.

No. The lawyer handling your case must have your authority before accepting any final settlement. The lawyer can suggest a settlement figure to the insurance company’s representative, however, it is you who has the final say.

Our compassion towards our clients, as well as our proven track record in the courtroom, makes us one of the most highly regarded personal injury firms in Ontario. With this is mind, the lawyers at Singer Kwinter will advise you as to the fairness of the settlement offer.

You have the option of speaking to the lawyer who is handling your case or their assistants. Depending on the complexity of the question, the assistant or law clerk should be able to provide most of the information you need.

At Singer Kwinter, our fee arrangement means that you will pay no legal fees until your case has been won or settled. At the free initial consultation, a lawyer will request information from you in order to determine whether they wish to proceed with your case. They will then explain to you what your case will entail. If you have any questions during your initial consultation or interview please do not hesitate to ask.

These are the most common and frequently asked questions. Unfortunately, neither can be answered during the initial stages of a claim. As the claim develops and more information becomes available, your lawyer may be able to provide you with an estimate as to the amount of compensation recoverable, and the time period in which your claim will be resolved.

At Singer Kwinter, we offer a free consultation. After that, our retainers are available on a contingency fee or on an hourly rate, depending on the nature of the matter. Our contingency rate will not exceed 33% plus HST. Our fee structure ensures that you have equal access to the justice system, regardless of your financial situation. View the Contingency fees: What you need to know guide from the Law Society of Ontario.

Yes. Singer Kwinter takes great care to provide services that are sensitive to our clients’ disabilities. View our Accessible Customer Service Plan in accordance with the AODA.

Punitive damages are usually awarded if a party acted in an outrageous, vindictive, and/or high-handed manner that shocks the conscious of the court. They are meant not only to punish but also to deter the defendant, insurance company and others from acting in a similar manner.