Under Ontario law, lawyers cannot overcharge clients.
However, some lawyers do ...a lot.
Fortunately, the law grants clients
30 days from the date of their bill to have it assessed (audited) by the court to determine if the bill is fair or if it should be reduced. Through this assessment process, some clients receive a refund/reduction of their bill. Some clients receive a very large refund/reduction of their bill. Some clients receive no refund/reduction. Either way, all clients have the right to have their legal bills examined by a court officer (called an Assessment Officer), and this is binding on the lawyer.
At Benmor Assessment Advocates, we provide our clients with expert legal advice,
planning, advocacy and representation in the Assessment Court of the Superior Court of Justice throughout
the Province of Ontario.
If you believe you were overcharged by your lawyer, you only have 30 days from the date of your bill to get help.
Book a Bill Review & Strategy Session (by Zoom) to get started.
SCHEDULE YOUR SESSIONHow Do I Know If I’m Entitled to a Refund?
You may be entitled to a refund or reduction of your legal bill if you can prove any one or more of the following facts:
Your lawyer spent an excessive amount of time on your case or documents
Your case was not that complex for the amount you were charged
Your lawyer did not exercise a high degree of responsibility in your case
Your lawyer charged an excessive amount compared to the monetary value of your case
Your case did not demand extraordinary legal work
Your case did not require a high level of legal competence or skill
The results achieved by your lawyer in your case did not justify the amount you were charged
Your lawyer knew you could not afford the amount you were charged
Your lawyer did not provide you with an advance estimate of the amount you would be charged and you could not have expected that bill
How It Works
Get Your Money Back in 3 Simple Steps
Step 1
Book a Bill Review & Strategy Session (by Zoom)
Mr. Benmor will hear your concerns regarding overcharges, read your Retainer Agreement, review your bills, assess the stage of your case, measure the outcomes achieved versus the amount you were billed and provide you with a recommendation for an Assessment of your bills.
Step 2
Court Order for the Bills to be Assessed
Mr. Benmor can obtain a Court Order for the Assessment of your bills (ample advance time required before expiry of 30 day deadline).
Step 3
Pre-Assessment Hearing, Document Brief, and Legal Representation
Mr. Benmor can prepare your Document Brief and attend your Pre-Assessment Hearing. He can also attend your Assessment Hearing and cross-examine your lawyer and their staff and marshal your evidence to attempt to obtain an order for a reduction of your bill or refund.
Ontario Court of Appeal judgment in Cohen v. Kealey
A client named Suzanne Cohen needed a lawyer,
after she separated from her husband. So she retained a lawyer
to represent her.
The lawyer negotiated her divorce settlement, prepared her Separation Agreement and obtained her divorce.
The client was concerned about the fees
that her lawyer charged her because she says that the lawyer told her that her case would cost between $10,000 to $50,000.
The lawyer billed her $60,089.
This case established the legal test for the Assessment of lawyer bills.
The client’s bill
was reduced to $30,777 – a 50% reduction, plus the lawyer was ordered to pay the client her costs for the Assessment.
See what clients have to say about Steven Benmor
Steven Benmor is incredibly prepared, rational, and honest. His straight forward approach and strategic thinking helped me navigate a traumatic period with clarity and confidence. He tells it like it is, which I found invaluable.
Steven Benmor's professionalism and expertise were instrumental during a challenging time. His handling of my complex situation was outstanding, saving me both time and money.
Steven Benmor’s team was incredibly supportive during a stressful period. His empathetic approach and effective communication made a huge difference, allowing me to feel at ease and focus on moving forward.
Steven Benmor and his team went above and beyond, providing not only exceptional legal support but also emotional support throughout the process. Their collaboration with other professionals ensured a smooth resolution.
Steven Benmor's strategic acumen and dedication were evident throughout my case. His ability to navigate complex situations with precision and his genuine care for his clients make him an outstanding choice.
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Steven Benmor's exceptional skills and genuine care for his clients' success are remarkable. His thoughtful and supportive approach ensures clients are well-guided and cared for through difficult times.
"Steven Benmor’s dedication and support are truly commendable. His expertise and willingness to go the extra mile for his clients make him an exceptional choice.
Steven Benmor’s handling of my complex situation was outstanding, saving me both time and money.