Defence Lawyer

Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

If a complaint has been filed against you with the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), it’s crucial to seek assistance from an experienced and skilled professional discipline lawyer. ALF specializes in defending lawyers throughout investigations and disciplinary proceedings at the LSO. Facing allegations of professional misconduct from a client, colleague, employee, or another member of the profession can be stressful, frustrating, and time-consuming. By entrusting ALF with your case, you gain an experienced advocate who will guide you through the entire complaint and discipline process. We understand the profound impact that such allegations can have on your reputation, career, and financial situation. Our team works relentlessly to ensure that complaints are dismissed and allegations are found to be without merit, protecting your livelihood and future.

Navigating LSO Investigations and Audits

The LSO’s Complaints and Compliance department first assesses whether the LSO has jurisdiction over the matter. If it does, the department will decide whether the matter can be resolved early or needs to be referred to further investigation.

In cases involving more serious allegations, the matter may be referred to the Investigation Services for further investigation. ALF defence lawyers have extensive experience guiding lawyers through the investigatory stage and assisting with LSO audits. Early involvement of legal counsel is crucial to ensuring that your reputation, license, and livelihood remain intact. Whether you are undergoing an audit or a formal investigation, we work closely with you to ensure all relevant information that demonstrates your competence and integrity is presented to the investigator, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.

When a complaint is filed, you have a professional obligation to respond promptly to all communications from the LSO and to cooperate fully with the investigation. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to additional disciplinary proceedings under the LSO’s Summary Hearing Process.

Submissions to the LSO's Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC)

ALF assists lawyers in making compelling submissions to the Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC), which screens complaints and may authorize disciplinary proceedings or seek an informal resolution. The PAC may refer the complaint to the Hearing Panel for a full hearing or opt for a less formal resolution.

At this stage, it is essential to consult with an experienced lawyer. If the PAC decides to authorize a hearing and a Notice of Application (NOA) is issued, the matter becomes public, and the details of the allegations are made known. This can result in serious reputational and financial damage. ALF lawyers are skilled in drafting persuasive submissions to the PAC, often leading to the dismissal of complaints. Acting early can save you valuable time, protect your reputation, and preserve your financial well-being.

Defending Lawyers at Hearings Before the Hearing Division

If a case progresses to a hearing before the Hearing Division, you will face a formal process involving witness testimony, cross-examination, evidence presentation, and legal submissions. Our team has decades of experience handling these proceedings, having represented numerous clients in tribunals and courtrooms across Ontario.

Strategic and effective cross-examination of prosecution witnesses is key to challenging professional misconduct charges. ALF defence lawyers are adept at preparing thoroughly and executing targeted, skillful questioning that may lead to the dismissal of allegations. Our goal is to ensure that you receive a fair hearing and the best possible outcome.

Appealing Unfair Decisions Before the Appeal Division

If the Hearing Division renders an unfavorable decision, lawyers have the right to appeal to the LSO Appeal Division. The appeal process involves reviewing the record of the proceedings, preparing written legal arguments, and presenting oral arguments before a panel.

At ALF, we have the experience and expertise to carefully analyze the record, identify errors, and develop persuasive arguments for a successful appeal. Our team brings a wealth of experience in written advocacy, having prepared submissions for various Ontario tribunals, the Divisional Court, the Court of Appeal for Ontario, and the Supreme Court of Canada. We ensure that your case is fully prepared for a powerful appeal presentation.

Appealing to the Divisional Court

If the Appeal Division does not set aside a decision from the Hearing Panel, lawyers can seek a judicial review before the Divisional Court of Ontario. This process includes reviewing the record, crafting legal arguments, and presenting them before a panel of Ontario Superior Court judges.

ALF defence lawyers have significant experience arguing cases at the Divisional Court, and we will pursue all available avenues to protect your reputation, legal license, and financial well-being.

Additional Regulatory Issues Lawyers May Face

Beyond the LSO complaint process, ALF also assists lawyers with other regulatory matters, including practice issues, advertising concerns, billing disputes, and licensing issues such as navigating license suspensions, revocations, and license reinstatements.

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.

If you are a lawyer facing a complaint, practice issue, or licensing matter, 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.

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