Historical institutional abuse claim
A claim against a school, church, care home or institution for past abuse of a child or resident.
What is included
- Listens to your account at your pace and explains your options in confidence
- Explains how a civil claim differs from a criminal case
- Gathers records and identifies everyone who may be responsible, including institutions
- Starts and runs the claim, seeking to protect your privacy where possible
- Negotiates a settlement or takes the claim to trial
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
- Survivors of sexual assault or abuse, including abuse that happened long ago
- Survivors of abuse in a school, faith community or other institution
- People harmed by an assault
Information to have ready
- 1Whatever you are comfortable sharing about what happened and when
- 2Names of the people or institutions involved
- 3Any police, medical or counselling records you are willing to share
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?
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.
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
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