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.
Interviews & Media
2023
- Addressing Dog Attack Cases – 640 Toronto
2022
- What can those with COVID-19 vaccine related injuries expect from VISP? – 640 Toronto
- Disability lawyer James Fireman on vaccine injury compensation – National Post
2021
- James K. Fireman on surveillance and disability claims – 640 Toronto
- Disability Lawyer on COVID-19 Long-hauler claims in B.C. – 980 CKNW
2020
- $30M Lawsuit launched against sperm bank – CBC News
- COVID-19: Fireman on refunding cancelled school trips – Global News
2019
- Abused Barrie teacher wins legal fight after long-term disability cut off – Global News
- Sun Life reinstates long-term disability coverage after legal action – Global News
2018
- Sun Life Financial denies disability coverage for Sandra Bullock – Global News
- Ontario Teacher Assaulted at Work Fights Back – Global News
2017
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
- 3 reasons you shouldn’t appeal a denied long-term disability claim – Global News
- Long-term Disability Claims for Executives and Professionals
- Do I need a positive PCR test for COVID-19 to get disability benefits?
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
- Can you make a long-term disability claim to get out of a toxic work environment? – Global News
- Long-term Disability Claims and a Toxic Work Environment
- COVID-19, Layoffs and Long-term Disability Claims
More from James K. Fireman
Discover more about your long-term disability rights with James.Blog
Sun Life denies mother’s claim due to disabled son: $5M lawsuit
Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has filed a $5.3M lawsuit in Ontario Superior Court alleging that insurance provider Sun Life Financial callously cut off…
Disability Law Show
Disability Law Show TV – S2 E6
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…
Blog
Long-term Disability: 5 Common Myths
Here are 5 myths that clients believe to be true when they come to us in regards to their long-term disability claim…