Hiring a Lawyer

Many people use free supports when completing their Claim. Claims Helpers and Class Counsel can answer questions, explain the Settlement Agreement, and help complete the Claim Form at no cost. You may also choose to work with a lawyer if that feels more comfortable for you.

A lawyer can help explain the Settlement Agreement, complete the Claim Form, gather documents, and speak with the Claims Administrator for you. Only a practising lawyer in good standing in a Canadian province or territory can be paid under the Settlement. “Good standing” means the lawyer is licensed and allowed to practise law.

If you hire a lawyer, Canada will pay the lawyer up to 5% of your compensation amount, plus applicable taxes. In some situations, the Court may approve another 5%. These amounts do not reduce your compensation. If a lawyer asks for more than these amounts, this is outside the Settlement and would be between you and the lawyer as part of a retainer agreement.

You receive your compensation directly. Lawyers do not handle or receive your compensation payment. Lawyers are paid separately after the Claims Administrator receives the required documents, including a valid retainer agreement and the completed Individual Legal Counsel Payment Request Form.

You may speak with more than one lawyer before deciding who you want to work with. You can only work with one lawyer at a time. The Claims Administrator may refuse to pay a lawyer if they mislead you, act unprofessionally, or do not meet the requirements of the Individual Legal Fees Protocol.