Administrative & Constitutional LawLawyer referralHuman rights applications

Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario application (applicant)

Preparing and filing a human rights application about discrimination in employment, housing, services or other protected areas.

An HRTO application is generally due within one year of the last incident; federal complaints usually go to the Canadian Human Rights Commission first, also generally within one year. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral

What is included

  • Reviews what happened and whether it relates to a protected ground and area
  • Drafts the application or response and supporting documents
  • Represents you at mediation and the hearing
  • Negotiates settlement terms
  • Explains the remedies the tribunal can order

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 who faced discrimination or harassment at work, in housing or in services
  • Employers, landlords and service providers responding to an application
  • Employees and customers of federally regulated organizations

Information to have ready

  1. 1Dates and details of each incident
  2. 2Names of witnesses
  3. 3Emails, texts, policies and other documents
  4. 4Any application or response already filed

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–$8,000, plus HST. The lawyer quotes the actual fee before any work starts. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.

Can a licensed paralegal handle a Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario case?

Yes. Licensed paralegals may represent parties at the HRTO. Ask NEO whether your matter is one it can handle directly or whether a lawyer is the better fit.

Which tribunal hears my claim, the HRTO or the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal?

The HRTO hears claims under Ontario's Human Rights Code. Federally regulated workplaces and services, such as banks, airlines and the federal government, fall under the Canadian Human Rights Act instead.

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
Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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