Arbitrator assesses and reduces applicant's claimed legal and accounting expenses following a successful benefits arbitration.
The applicant sought expenses following an arbitration decision that awarded her income replacement benefits.
The insurer disputed the amounts claimed for legal fees and accountants' services as excessive.
The arbitrator assessed the legal fees based on a reasonable ratio of preparation time to hearing time, allowing 24 hours at $125 per hour for the original bill.
The supplementary legal bill was reduced as excessive.
The arbitrator also reduced the claimed disbursements for two accounting firms, noting that one accountant did not testify and part of their report dealt with matters not in dispute.
The applicant was awarded a total of $6,427.07 in expenses.
OFSCDRSOntario Financial Services Commission - Dispute Resolution ServicesAug 25, 2000
