Personal InjuryLawyer referralCourt approval of a settlement

Court approval of a settlement for a person under disability

The court application required to approve a settlement for an incapable adult.

Timing depends on the court's schedule and any review by the Children's Lawyer or the Public Guardian and Trustee. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral

What is included

  • Reviews the proposed settlement and the supporting medical and financial evidence
  • Prepares the motion or application for court approval under the Rules of Civil Procedure
  • Works with the Children's Lawyer or the Public Guardian and Trustee where they are involved
  • Arranges for the money to be paid into court or managed as the court directs

What is not included

  • Medical reports, records and other disbursements, unless the lawyer's retainer says otherwise
  • Appeals or separate claims, unless the lawyer agrees to them in writing
  • Any costs award against you, unless the lawyer's retainer covers it
  • Work by NEO Legal Services: NEO is a paralegal firm and only makes the referral

Who this service is for

  • Litigation guardians settling a claim for a child
  • Families settling a claim for an adult who cannot manage their own affairs

Information to have ready

  1. 1The settlement offer or minutes of settlement
  2. 2Medical reports on the injured person's condition and outlook
  3. 3Details of the litigation guardian

How a referral works

  1. 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.
  2. 2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
  3. 3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
  4. 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.

NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm, not a law firm. Every step of a referral, and your rights

Frequently asked questions

What does the lawyer charge?

A typical Ontario fee for this service is $2,500–$7,500, plus HST. The lawyer quotes the actual fee before any work starts. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.

What are accident benefits?

In Ontario, people hurt in a vehicle collision can usually claim no-fault accident benefits from an auto insurer, such as medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits. For accidents on or after July 1, 2026, other benefits, such as income replacement, may depend on the optional coverage on the policy. A separate lawsuit against an at-fault driver may also be possible.

Should I talk to the other side's insurer?

Be careful about giving recorded statements or signing releases before speaking to a lawyer. Report the incident to your own insurer promptly, as your policy requires.

Will my case go to trial?

Many injury claims settle before trial, but some do not. The lawyer explains the options, and the decision whether to accept a settlement is yours.

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 settlement amount or result can be guaranteed
  • Missing a limitation period or notice deadline can end a claim
  • Keep following your doctors' advice and keep records of treatment and expenses
Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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