James K. Fireman

HBA, LL.B.

National Practice Leader

Practice Areas

Disability Insurance Law, Personal Injury Law

Location

Calgary, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver

Experience

James K. Fireman stands as a pillar of strength and expertise in the realm of personal injury and disability law. As the National Practice Leader of Samfiru Tumarkin LLP’s Disability & Personal Injury Law practice group, James has made it his mission to champion the rights of clients across Canada, including Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. His dedication and strategic prowess have earned him a sterling reputation as a fierce, compassionate, and creative advocate.

James’ legal acumen shines through his handling of complex personal injury and disability cases. He has successfully represented clients at many levels of court, and his notable cases have drawn media attention, underscoring his ability to secure justice for his clients against formidable odds.

James’s clients consistently praise his professionalism, empathy, and steadfast support. His client reviews speak volumes about his dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for those he represents.

Beyond his legal practice, James contributes to the legal community through his writings and as a lead instructor for the Intensive Trial Advocacy Workshop at Osgoode Hall in Toronto. He is a sought-after speaker at legal conferences, where he shares his insights and experiences with fellow legal professionals.

Outside of work, James is a devoted husband and father of two. He enjoys playing and watching baseball and staying informed about American politics. His commitment to family and community mirrors his dedication to his clients, making him a well-rounded and relatable advocate. Contact James today to ensure your rights are protected and to secure the justice you need to move forward with confidence.

Education

James earned his law degree from Queen’s University, building on a strong academic foundation established with a Business Administration degree from the prestigious Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario.

Notable Cases

Victory for Sandra Bullock: Disability Benefits Reinstated

One of James’s notable victories involved Sandra Bullock, whose long-term disability benefits were unjustly terminated by Sun Life. With James’s relentless advocacy, Sandra’s benefits were reinstated, and her case highlighted the critical role of legal intervention in challenging insurance denials. This victory not only restored Sandra’s financial stability but also underscored the importance of holding insurance companies accountable.

Abused Teacher Wins LTD Legal Fight

In another significant case, James represented Julie Austin, a dedicated Barrie teacher who suffered a severe brain injury due to a violent incident at school. Despite Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan’s attempts to discredit her claim, James’s strategic actions secured over $100,000 in compensation for Julie. This case, followed by Global News, illuminated the broader issues of workplace violence and the need for robust support systems for educators.

Memberships & Affiliation

James is an active member of several professional organizations, including:

  • The Ontario Trial Lawyers Association
  • The Canadian Bar Association
  • The Ontario Bar Association

Television & Radio Hosting

The Disability Law Show on TV

James is co-host of the Disablity Law Show (Formerly In Your Corner), the TV show that the insurance industry doesn’t want you to watch! The program is Canada’s only TV show on long-term disability rights that provides viewers on Global TV and CTV in Ontario, BC and Alberta with the inside edge on how to defend their rights when their long-term disability claim is denied or cut off.

Watch episodes of the Disability Law Show


The Disability Law Show on Radio

James hosts the Disability Law Show every Saturday at 1 p.m. on Newstalk 1010 in Toronto. He provides listeners with clarity on their rights following the denial of a long-term disability claim.

Listen to episodes of the Disability Law Show

Articles & Blogs

2023

  • Denied long-term disability for diabetes? 3 things you must do – Global News
  • Denied long-term disability for back pain? 3 things you must do – Global News
  • Denied long-term disability for heart disease? 3 things you need to do – Global News

2022

2021

  • The insurer cut off his benefits. Then his lawyer reviewed his medical assessment – Global News
  • Making sense of long-term disability benefits: Law firm joins Parkinson’s support group – Global News

2020

More from James K. Fireman

Discover more about your long-term disability rights with James.

Blog

Disability/Personal Injury November 19th, 2018

Sun Life denies mother’s claim due to disabled son: $5M lawsuit

By James K. Fireman

Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has filed a $5.3M lawsuit in Ontario Superior Court alleging that insurance provider Sun Life Financial callously cut off…

Read Article
View Blog

Disability Law Show

Disability Law Show - TV December 6th, 2019

Disability Law Show TV – S2 E6

By Sivan Tumarkin

The Top 5 Myths About Long-term Disability and what you should do if your insurer says you've reached your 2-year cutoff. Find…

View Episode
View Disability Law Show

Blog

Disability/Personal Injury March 12th, 2016

Long-term Disability: 5 Common Myths

By Sivan Tumarkin

Here are 5 myths that clients believe to be true when they come to us in regards to their long-term disability claim…

Read Article
View Blog

See What James's Clients Are Saying

James Fireman was incredible to work with! He was so passionate about my case and worked diligently, making all the right moves. He got my insurance company to overturn their decision to deny my LTD claim. Thank you for your efforts.
Julie Austin Barrie Teacher, featured on Global News
  • 5 / 5
Review from
I was stunned after receiving a letter advising that my LTD benefits were being terminated. A friend suggested Samfiru Tumarkin LLP. This was the best thing I could have done. James Fireman made me feel comfortable and settlement came quickly. Thank you so very much.
Sandra Bullock Featured on Global News
  • 5 / 5
Review from
When my LTD was cut off I thought I had lost everything in my life. Then I met with James Fireman. He always answered my questions and made sure I fully understood all details. When he told me the amount he had settled my case for, I was speechless. My family and I thank you with all our hearts.
Derek P.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
James Fireman and Samfiru Tumarkin LLP took all my worries and made it theirs. My claim was settled very quietly and quickly, and I was very impressed. I’m very happy and impressed with the support I received from James throughout the whole process.
Anita C.
  • 5 / 5
Review from
After my initial consultation with James Fireman I instinctively knew I was at the right place. The whole process was very easy going, and he supported me through this stressful time in my life. I felt like I was in the best hands possible.
Galina L.
  • 5 / 5
Review from

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