How to sue a company in Ontario?
Asked by: Deron Predovic | Last update: January 7, 2026Score: 4.6/5 (27 votes)
You can start a civil case by preparing and filing a statement of claim that describes the facts and legal reasons you are entitled to compensation. This is called an action. You can also start a civil case by preparing and filing a Notice of Application that describes the order you want the court or judge to make.
How much does it cost to sue someone in Ontario?
Typically in a civil lawsuit, it can cost $1,500-$5,000 to initiate an action and have a lawyer deliver a Statement of Claim. Responding to the opposing side's documents and conducting examinations for discovery will likely involve another $3,500-$5,000.
Can I sue a company in Canada?
Legal Basis
Suing a company in Canada can be a: Civil claim or action: for breach of contract, damages, personal injuries, or for other civil remedies. Criminal case: for any of its violations against Canada's Criminal Code.
How do you file a lawsuit against a company?
To sue a company, you must file legal paperwork in the appropriate jurisdiction, which could be the court in the county where you reside or the county where the company does business. In addition, filing a complaint requires that you also pay a fee to purchase an index number for the case.
Is it worth it to sue a company?
You need to answer three fundamental -- and fairly obvious -- questions as part of deciding whether it's worthwhile to bring a lawsuit to court: Do I have a good case? Am I comfortable with the idea of a compromise settlement or going to mediation? Assuming a lawsuit is my best or only option, can I collect if I win?
HOW TO SUE A COMPANY OR AN INDIVIDUAL? Watch this before you file a lawsuit.⚖️
When should you sue a company?
Common bases for suing a company include breach of contract, negligence, product liability, employment discrimination, and fraud. Be sure to have all relevant documents and evidence to support your claim.
How much is a lawyer to sue a company?
Hourly rates vary based on the lawyer's experience but rates are typically between $200 to $600 per hour.
What are the 5 steps to initiate a lawsuit?
- Step 1: File a Complaint. Plaintiff files a complaint and summons with the local county court. ...
- Step 2: Answer Complaint. ...
- Step 3: Discovery. ...
- Step 4: Failing to Respond to Discovery. ...
- Step 5: Conclusion of Lawsuit.
How do you tell a company you will sue them?
A letter of intent to sue is used to notify an individual or business that legal action may be taken against them if the demands included in the letter are not met.
Will a collection agency sue for $5000?
Unpaid, credit card balances between $5,000 to $10,000 increase the likelihood of legal action by creditors or collection agencies. While agencies typically pursue the full amount owed, debt buyers may accept reduced payments.
What is the most you can sue for in Canada?
Is there a limit on the amount I can sue for? In the Alberta Court of Justice Civil Division you can sue for an amount up to $100,000 plus interest and costs. This is the Court's monetary jurisdiction.
How do I file a complaint against a company in Canada?
Most provinces and territories also have laws that protect consumers from unfair or deceptive business practices. To learn more or to file a complaint against a business, contact a provincial or territorial consumer affairs office or a Better Business Bureau near you.
How long does a civil lawsuit take in Ontario?
How long does a typical civil litigation case take in Ontario? Every civil case is unique. Most civil litigation cases in Ontario go to trial within two to five years, but contacting a lawyer early can speed up the process.
What happens if you lose a lawsuit and can't pay Canada?
Normally you have 30 days to pay. You'll be charged interest if you don't pay within this time limit. Worse still, your salary or property could be seized.
Is it worth going to Small Claims Court for $500?
Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.
How much can you sue for emotional distress in Ontario?
Are there caps on damages for emotional distress claims in Ontario? No, there are no caps on damages for emotional distress claims in Ontario. However, the court will consider the nature and extent of the distress when determining damages.
Why would you sue a company?
Lawsuits commonly arise against companies when: Suppliers or consumers believe that the company has breached a contract. Shareholders believe the company misled the public about the company's financial situation. Companies or individuals claim your organization has infringed upon their intellectual property rights.
Should I tell my job I'm suing them?
Communicate politely with HR and management and check with your lawyer before discussing the lawsuit with anyone. Not everyone you work with will know about your lawsuit, nor should they. And remember that filing a lawsuit is not a lawful reason for an employer to fire its employee.
How long does it take to sue a company?
It doesn't take much time to file a lawsuit. In many cases, the parties are able to negotiate a settlement in the weeks and months after the lawsuit is filed. However, if your case moves towards trial, it could take a year or longer to go to court or otherwise resolve the case.
Is suing someone worth it?
Before filing a lawsuit, prospective litigants should consider what they want from a case. Civil courts can only give you money or return property. A judgment cannot fix an underlying family problem or neighborhood feud. Lawsuits cost time and money, even if you get court costs awarded with a judgment in your favor.
How to sue a company without a lawyer?
In some circumstances, you file a petition or a motion. The court has several complaint forms that you may use in drafting your complaint. The forms are available online and at the Pro Se Intake Unit. You may also write your own complaint without using a court form.
What are the first steps of suing?
In official Church procedures there are three steps to sainthood: a candidate becomes "Venerable," then "Blessed" and then "Saint." Venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized formally by the pope as having lived a heroically virtuous life or offered their life.
How much should I sue for emotional distress?
Generally, these claims are worth $30,000-$50,000. The second type of emotional distress claim is one that is worth more than $50,000 up to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the factual circumstances.
Is suing a company expensive?
On average, a lawsuit costs approximately $10,000 for a simple suit. However, numerous factors can influence the cost of your lawsuit.
How to prove you were not served properly?
Surveillance: You can provide surveillance footage showing you were not served at the alleged date or that the service was improper. Mail Records: If there's no mail delivered to you or if you haven't signed the receipt. It can indicate improper service.