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A wrongful death lawyer in Toronto represents the surviving family members and the estate of a person who has died due to another party's negligence or wrongful conduct. Under Ontario's Family Law Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. F.3), qualifying family members — including spouses, children, parents, and siblings — can claim compensation for loss of financial support, loss of care, guidance and companionship, and funeral expenses. The estate may also bring a claim for damages the deceased would have been entitled to, including pain and suffering experienced before death.

By Olga Kanevsky, LL.B, LL.M — Principal Lawyer, Kanevsky Law Office. Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (Member #51731A) since 2001. Contact us at 416-252-9937 or Send Email.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Car Accidents

Fatal collisions from negligent driving

Medical Malpractice

Fatal errors in medical care

Workplace Accidents

Fatal industrial and construction accidents

Product Defects

Deaths from dangerous products

Nursing Home Neglect

Fatalities from inadequate care

Premises Liability

Fatal falls and property dangers

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Ontario

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim

Ontario law allows two types of claims after a wrongful death. The estate can sue for damages the deceased could have claimed if they survived. Additionally, under the Family Law Act, qualifying family members can bring dependency claims for their own losses.

  • Spouses (including common-law partners)
  • Children and grandchildren
  • Parents and grandparents
  • Siblings of the deceased

Compensation Available to Families

Wrongful death claims can provide significant compensation to help families cope with their devastating loss:

  • Loss of financial support (dependency claims based on deceased's income)
  • Loss of care, guidance, and companionship
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death
  • Lost earnings the deceased would have made over their lifetime
  • Estate administration costs

Proving a Wrongful Death Claim

We must establish that the defendant owed a duty of care to the deceased, breached that duty through negligence or wrongful conduct, and that this breach caused the death. We then document the financial and emotional losses suffered by surviving family members to secure maximum compensation.

Our Compassionate Approach

We understand this is an incredibly difficult time. Our lawyers provide patient, sensitive representation — we handle all legal matters so you can focus on grieving and healing. We communicate regularly, respect your timeline, and never pressure you to make decisions before you're ready.

How We Handle Your Case

1

Free Consultation

We review your case details, assess your injuries, and explain your legal options at no cost.

2

Investigation

We gather evidence, medical records, and expert opinions to build the strongest possible case.

3

Negotiation

We handle all communication with insurance companies and negotiate aggressively for fair compensation.

4

Resolution

Most cases settle, but we're fully prepared to take your case to trial if insurers won't pay fairly.

Wrongful Death FAQs

Olga Kanevsky, LL.B, LL.M — Personal Injury Lawyer Toronto

About the Author

Olga Kanevsky, LL.B, LL.M

Olga Kanevsky is the principal lawyer at Kanevsky Law Office, specializing exclusively in personal injury law. With over 20 years of experience and $50 million recovered for clients, she is recognized as one of Toronto's leading personal injury advocates. Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (Member #51731A) since 2001. She serves clients in English, Russian, and Ukrainian.

LSO Member #51731ACBA MemberOBA Member

Lost a Loved One to Negligence? We're Here to Help

Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on your family. Contact our Toronto wrongful death lawyers for a free, compassionate consultation. We'll pursue every avenue of justice for your family.

Email: Send Email | Phone: 416-252-9937 | 4580 Dufferin St, Suite 309, North York, ON