Freedom of information appeal to the Information and Privacy Commissioner
Appealing a refusal or a fee for access to government records under FIPPA or MFIPPA.
What is included
- Reviews the government decision or action and the rules behind it
- Explains which tribunal, review body or court can hear the matter
- Prepares the appeal, application or written submissions
- Represents you at the hearing or in court
- Advises on deadlines and next steps after a decision
What is not included
- Filing fees, transcripts and other disbursements
- Further appeals or other proceedings not covered by the lawyer's written retainer
- Independent medical or other reports
Who this service is for
- People challenging a government decision
- Businesses dealing with regulators or public bodies
- Requesters refused access to government records
Information to have ready
- 1The decision, order or letter you want to challenge
- 2All correspondence with the government body
- 3Documents you submitted earlier
- 4A short timeline of events
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.
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 $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.
Can I appeal a freedom of information decision?
Usually yes. Under Ontario's access laws you can generally appeal to the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario within 30 days of the decision.
Can a government decision be challenged?
Often yes, through an internal review, an appeal to a tribunal or judicial review in court. Which route applies depends on the law the decision was made under.
What if I missed the deadline?
Some tribunals and courts can extend a deadline in limited cases, but it is never certain. Get advice as soon as possible.
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
- Tribunals and courts can only decide the issues the law gives them
- Deadlines to appeal or apply keep running during a referral
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