A claim for injury caused by negligent dental or oral surgery treatment.
The basic limitation period is usually two years from when you knew, or ought to have known, about the claim (often the date of the injury), and some claims need written notice much sooner, so contact a lawyer as soon as you can. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral
What is included
Obtains and reviews the complete medical records
Retains independent doctors to review the care given and what caused the harm
Explains the process and the particular challenges of medical negligence claims
Starts and runs the lawsuit against the doctors, hospital or other providers
Assists with a complaint to a regulatory college where appropriate
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
Patients harmed during medical, dental or hospital care
Families of a patient who died or was seriously injured
Parents of a child injured at birth
Information to have ready
1Names of the doctors, hospitals and clinics involved
2Dates of treatment and what you were told
3Any records, test results or letters you already have
4Information about your health before and after
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.
The lawyer usually charges a percentage of what is recovered, agreed in writing before any work starts. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.
Why do medical negligence claims need independent medical opinions?+
The court usually needs evidence from qualified doctors about the standard of care, whether it was met and whether a breach caused the harm. The lawyer arranges these reviews.
Is a complaint to a regulatory college the same as a lawsuit?+
No. A college complaint looks at the professional's conduct and does not award compensation. A lawsuit seeks compensation for your losses, and the two can proceed separately.
Will my case go to trial?+
Many 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