Frequently asked
questions.

LTB hearing timelines vary significantly. Non-urgent applications (such as L1 rent arrears) are typically scheduled several months out. Urgent applications — like those involving safety or illegal lockouts — can be heard within days. Once scheduled, block hearings typically last one to three hours per file depending on complexity.

No. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, a landlord cannot evict a tenant without obtaining an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board and having it enforced by a Sheriff. Self-help evictions — changing locks, removing belongings, or shutting off utilities — are illegal and can result in significant penalties against the landlord.

You are not required to have representation at the LTB. However, having an experienced advocate significantly improves outcomes — particularly for complex matters, large arrears amounts, or cases involving credibility issues. At minimum, a consultation before your hearing can help you understand your rights and prepare effectively.

If you miss a hearing, the LTB Member may proceed in your absence and grant the other party's order without hearing your side. You may be able to request a review of the order, but there are strict timelines and you'll need to show good reason for the absence. It's much better to attend — or to reschedule in advance if there's a conflict.

As of 2020, Ontario's Small Claims Court limit is $35,000, not including interest and costs. If your claim exceeds this amount, you can either reduce it to $35,000 and waive the excess, or file in a higher court (Superior Court of Justice).

Small Claims matters typically take 6–18 months from filing to trial, depending on the courthouse and complexity. Many matters settle at the mandatory Settlement Conference. If the defendant doesn't file a Defence, you may be able to obtain a default judgment more quickly.

In addition to the principal amount, you may be able to claim pre-judgment interest, court filing fees, service costs, and representation costs (limited to 15% of the amount claimed). You cannot claim compensation for your own time spent on the matter.

In many cases, yes. A conviction — even on a minor HTA offence — can result in demerit points and insurance premium increases that far exceed the original fine. An experienced representative can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge, or have the ticket withdrawn entirely based on procedural or evidentiary issues.

Generally, you must indicate your intention to dispute within 15 days of receiving the offence notice (traffic ticket). Missing this deadline can result in a conviction being entered against you. If you've missed the deadline, contact us — there may be options to reopen the matter depending on the circumstances.

Our fees vary by matter type, complexity, and whether we're doing a one-time appearance or full file management. We always provide a clear fee quote before you commit to anything. Initial consultations are always free.

Yes. We serve the full Greater Toronto Area including Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Ajax, Pickering, Scarborough, Oshawa, and surrounding communities within 100 km of Toronto.

Yes. Most LTB and HRTO hearings are currently conducted by videoconference. We represent clients at virtual hearings and help prepare you for the technology and format involved. We also appear in person at Small Claims and POA court proceedings.