Searching for a debtor's assets and advising on the best enforcement steps for a judgment.
A writ of seizure and sale in Ontario stays in force for six years and can be renewed; the lawyer explains the timing of each step. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral
What is included
Reviews the judgment and searches for the debtor's assets and income
Files writs of seizure and sale and garnishment notices
Examines the debtor under oath about their finances
Seeks charging orders or an order to sell land where appropriate
Registers or enforces judgments from outside Ontario, or Ontario judgments elsewhere
What is not included
Court fees, transcripts, reports from accountants or other professionals, and other disbursements
Any costs a court orders you to pay the other side
An appeal or steps to enforce a judgment, unless the lawyer agrees to them in writing
Work by NEO Legal Services: NEO is a paralegal firm and only makes the referral
Who this service is for
Creditors holding an unpaid court judgment
Parties with a judgment from another province or country
Information to have ready
1A copy of the judgment or order
2Any information about the debtor's employer, bank accounts or property
3Payments received so far
How a referral works
1Tell us in a few words what the matter is about, and who else is involved, so we can check for a conflict of interest.
2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
4You pay the lawyer's fee to the lawyer. Any referral fee comes out of it, is disclosed to you in writing, and never increases what you pay.
A typical Ontario fee for this service is $1,500–$5,000, plus HST. The lawyer quotes the actual fee before any work starts. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.
What is the difference between Small Claims Court and the Superior Court?+
Small Claims Court hears money claims up to $50,000 with simpler procedures. Larger claims, injunctions and many other remedies go to the Superior Court of Justice.
Can I be ordered to pay the other side's legal costs?+
Yes. In the Superior Court the successful party is often awarded part of its legal costs. The lawyer explains how offers to settle can affect costs.
Is mediation required?+
Under the current rules, mandatory mediation applies to most civil actions in Toronto, Ottawa and Windsor, and mediation is often worth considering elsewhere. Ontario's civil court rules are being reformed, so the lawyer confirms which steps apply to your case.
Can a lawyer help with only part of my case?+
Some lawyers offer limited scope help, such as drafting a pleading or arguing one motion. The lawyer confirms in writing which parts they will do.
General information only, not legal advice. NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Important limitations
No outcome can be guaranteed; the court decides contested issues
You may have to pay part of the other side's costs if you are unsuccessful
Limitation periods and court deadlines keep running while you choose a lawyer