Initial File Review (ON)

Summary

This practice note is intended to provide defence counsel with tips and other useful information as to how to conduct an "Initial File Review". Defence lawyers need to pay attention to various live and potential issues such as, coverage disputes, liability, the severity of the plaintiff's injuries, etc., to properly prepare their case for trial or a potential settlement. While counsel's opinion of the file (regarding potential risk) may not remain the same throughout the course of the litigation, insurers will often request that counsel provide an initial opinion on issues that could arise throughout in the plaintiff's lawsuit.