Insurance Agents and Brokers Defence Lawyer

Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

If you are an insurance broker or agent facing a complaint to the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) or allegations of non-compliance with the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario Act, Insurance Act, or RIBO’s Code of Conduct and By-Laws, you need experienced legal representation to protect your career and reputation.

At Aouchiche Law Firm (ALF), we defend insurance brokers in RIBO investigations and hearings before the Discipline Committee. We also represent insurance agents facing enforcement proceedings by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) before the Financial Services Tribunal. Complaints and allegations of professional misconduct can be overwhelming and damaging. Entrusting ALF with your case ensures you’ll have a skilled advocate by your side to guide you through the process and work relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome.

Navigating RIBO Complaints and Investigations

RIBO’s Complaints and Investigation Department oversees the conduct and financial practices of Ontario’s insurance brokers.

When a complaint is filed, RIBO’s Consumer Complaints Officer conducts a preliminary investigation. At this stage, some matters may be resolved informally, but serious allegations often escalate to formal investigations involving evidence collection and reporting to the Complaints Committee. Complaints arising from audits or “spot checks” are also referred to this committee.

At ALF, we assist insurance brokers at every stage of a RIBO complaint, working with you to ensure your competence and integrity are clearly demonstrated. Early legal intervention is critical in protecting your reputation, license, and livelihood.

Complaints Committee & Disciplinary Hearings

The Complaints Committee decides whether to resolve a matter or refer it to the Discipline Committee for formal hearings. ALF provides expert legal guidance in crafting persuasive submissions to help avoid escalation to a disciplinary hearing.

If your case proceeds to the Discipline Committee, the stakes are high. Possible sanctions include:

  • Reprimands.

  • Additional education or financial reporting requirements.

  • Fines.

  • License restrictions, suspension, or revocation.

Disciplinary hearings involve witness testimony, cross-examination, and legal submissions. Our team has decades of experience in professional tribunals and is skilled in presenting evidence, asking targeted questions, and adapting to the nuances of each case to achieve the best results.

FSRA Enforcement and Financial Services Tribunal Hearings

If the FSRA issues a notice of non-compliance, you must request a hearing before the Financial Services Tribunal to dispute the allegations. ALF can help you evaluate whether to pursue a hearing and represent you throughout the process.

Tribunal hearings require meticulous preparation and involve witness examination, evidence presentation, and oral submissions. Our lawyers have extensive expertise in these proceedings and are committed to protecting your license and financial well-being.

Judicial Reviews and Appeals

Decisions by the RIBO Discipline Committee or the Financial Services Tribunal can be appealed to the Divisional Court of Ontario. Judicial reviews involve a detailed examination of the lower tribunal’s record, legal argumentation, and advocacy before a panel of judges.

At ALF, our lawyers have extensive experience in judicial reviews and appeals. We will identify procedural errors or flawed decisions, prepare compelling submissions, and pursue every avenue to defend your reputation and career.

Comprehensive Services for Insurance Brokers and Agents

We assist insurance brokers and agents with a wide range of regulatory and professional matters, including:

  • Responding to complaints and investigations by RIBO or FSRA.

  • Representing clients in hearings before the RIBO Discipline Committee, Qualification and Registration Committee, or the Financial Services Tribunal.

  • Appealing decisions to the Divisional Court.

  • Advising on compliance with the Registered Insurance Brokers Act and other legislation.

  • Assisting with registration applications and audits.

  • Representing clients in criminal or quasi-criminal proceedings under the Criminal Code or Provincial Offences Act.

  • Providing guidance on professional practice issues, including record-keeping, privacy, and confidentiality.

Why Choose ALF?

  • Proven Results: We have a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes for regulated professionals.

  • Respected Advocacy: Our written and oral advocacy is highly regarded across tribunals and courts.

  • Competitive Fees: We provide top-tier representation at reasonable rates.

Contact Us Today

If you are  an insurance agent or broker facing a complaint or investigation, it’s crucial to act quickly. By working with an experienced defense lawyer from the outset, you can protect your practice, reputation, and livelihood.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Whether in-person, by phone, or virtually, the ALF team is here to guide you through this challenging process with expertise and dedication.