Ottawa’s Trusted Disability Lawyers – No Fees Unless We Win
Sivan Tumarkin is a leading disability lawyer representing clients in Ottawa and across Ontario. As co-founding partner of Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and head of the firm’s Disability Law Practice, Sivan has helped thousands of individuals secure compensation from insurance companies after being denied long-term or short-term disability benefits. He also hosts The Disability Law Show on Global and CTV.
If your disability benefits have been denied, delayed, or cut off, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to handle it alone.
Our team understands the emotional and financial stress caused by a denied claim. We’re here to lift that burden with clear guidance, compassionate support, and results-driven legal strategies.
You’ve worked hard. When you can’t work due to illness or injury, you deserve the best support – not roadblocks. Whether your insurer says you’re “not totally disabled,” questions your evidence, or pressures you to return to work too early, our lawyers know how to respond – and get compensation from your insurance company.
No upfront fees. No risk. Just proven legal help from Canada’s most positively reviewed disability law firm, with over 2,000 five-star reviews.
Watch Now: Top 3 Reasons to Hire a Disability Lawyer
Do You Qualify for Disability Benefits?
If a medical condition or injury prevents you from doing your job, you may be eligible for benefits through:
- Short-term disability (STD) coverage from an employer plan
- Long-term disability (LTD) benefits under a group or private policy
- CPP Disability for eligible applicants who meet the federal government’s criteria
Even when your doctor confirms you can’t work, insurers often deny legitimate claims, citing vague or unfair reasons. That’s where we come in.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
⛔ We do not handle WSIB, ODSP, or Ontario Works claims or denials.
Common Reasons Claims Are Denied
Insurance companies often deny legitimate claims using vague or unfair justifications. Here are some of the most common reasons our clients in Ottawa hear:
They claim you can still work in some capacity, even if your doctor disagrees.
They argue your medical file doesn’t prove you can’t work.
Minor paperwork issues are used to justify a full denial.
They say you didn’t follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.
Photos or video clips are taken out of context to “prove” you’re not disabled.
The insurer’s doctor reviews your file and disagrees – without ever seeing you.
🚨 Don’t Appeal! Before you file an appeal with your insurance company, speak to us. Most internal appeals fail – and they can delay your right to pursue legal action. Learn more: Why you shouldn’t file an appeal without legal advice.
Taking on Ottawa’s Largest Insurers – Your David vs. Goliath Moment
When you’re denied disability benefits, it can feel like you’re up against a massive, unmovable system. But you’re not alone.
At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve successfully challenged the biggest insurance companies in Ottawa – and across Canada – on behalf of our clients. We know how these companies operate, the tactics they use, and what it takes to turn a denial into approval.
Our Ottawa disability lawyers have gone up against:
How much do disability lawyers charge in Ottawa?
We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. Our fees only apply if we successfully recover compensation for you.
Can I apply for both short-term and long-term disability?
Yes. Most disability plans start with short-term disability (STD) benefits. If your condition lasts longer than a few months, you may transition to long-term disability (LTD) – though you’ll need to meet specific medical and policy criteria. Learn more about the difference between STD and LTD.
Can I be fired while on disability leave in Ottawa?
You can’t be fired because you’re on disability leave. However, your employer may terminate your employment for unrelated reasons, such as restructuring. If this happens, you may be entitled to severance pay – as much as 24 months’ pay – and additional human rights compensation.
What if my benefits are cut off after 2 years?
Most LTD policies shift their definition of disability at the two-year mark—requiring you to prove you can’t work in any occupation, not just your own. If your benefits were cut off at this stage, it is still possible to challenge the decision and get proper compensation.
How long do LTD benefits last in Ottawa?
If your claim is approved and your condition remains disabling, LTD benefits can last up to age 65 under most policies in Ottawa. Read more about this in our Long-term Disability Claims in Ontario Guide.
Do I need a lawyer before appealing my denied disability claim?
Yes. While it may seem easier to appeal directly through your insurer, most internal appeals fail – and can use up the limited time you have to file a legal claim. It’s best to speak with a disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP first to protect your rights.
Why Choose Samfiru Tumarkin LLP
At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve built our reputation on results and trust. Here’s why thousands across Ottawa and Ontario have chosen us to handle their disability claims:
Most Positively Reviewed Disability Law Firm in Canada
With over 2,000 five-star reviews, our clients consistently praise our compassion, communication, and results.
Millions Recovered For Clients
We’ve secured millions in settlements and benefits for people who were denied or cut off from their LTD and STD claims.
Thousands Helped in Ottawa and Beyond
Our Ottawa disability lawyers have supported individuals from across the city and surrounding communities through every stage of the claims process.
No Fees Unless We Win
With our contingency fee option, there’s no financial risk to you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.
Success Stories: Real Results for Our Clients
What Our Clients Say⭐See All Reviews⭐
How We Can Help You Win Your Disability Claim
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Challenging Denials & Cut-offs
We act quickly to dispute the insurer’s decision - without wasting time on internal appeals that rarely work.
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Strengthening Your Case
We gather medical evidence, work with your doctors, and present a complete, compelling file.
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Handling the Insurance Company
We take over all communication with the insurer - so you don’t have to deal with the stress or pressure.
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Pursuing Benefits You Deserve
Our goal is simple: recover the compensation you’re legally owed, as quickly and effectively as possible.
Types of Claims We Handle
We support clients across Ottawa with a wide range of disability-related legal matters, beyond just LTD denials.
Short-term Disability Claims
CPP Disability Benefits
Disability Tax Credit
Terminations Due To Illness
Forced Return to Work
INDEPENDENT MEDICAL EXAMS
Life Insurance Lawyer Ottawa
Mortgage Disability Insurance
Critical Illness Insurance
WRONGFUL DISMISSAL CLAIMS
Personal Injury Claims
Severance Pay Lawyer Ottawa
Employment Lawyer Ottawa
Helpful Free Resources
You have disability rights in Ottawa. Find out how to enforce them through our helpful resources, including FAQs, various Ontario TV and radio programs, and our blog.
Pocket Disability Lawyer
Find out if your LTD denial is illegal - in under two minutes.
Use Pocket Disability LawyerDisability Law Livestreams
Join our live Q&As and ask an LTD lawyer your questions, in real time.
Watch the Latest LivestreamDisability Law Show
3 Common mistakes to avoid when applying for LTD | Disability Law Show TV – S7 E06
3 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN APPLYING FOR LTD on Season 7 Episode 06 of the Disability Law Show with Disability Lawyer…
Blog
Appeal Win: Pipefitter awarded CPPD benefits with retroactive pay
Samfiru Tumarkin LLP successfully secured Canada Pension Plan Disability benefits for a 50-year-old pipefitter after his claim was denied.
Disability Law Show
What to know about a disability lawyer’s role in LTD claims | Disability Law Show TV – S7 E05
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT A DISABILITY LAWYER'S ROLE IN LTD CLAIMS on Season 7 Episode 05 of the Disability Law Show with…
Serving Ottawa & Surrounding Areas
If you live in the National Capital Region and have been denied disability benefits, we’re here to help—no matter where you’re located.
- Kanata
- Nepean
- Barrhaven
- Orleans
- Gloucester
- Vanier
- Centretown
- The Glebe
- Alta Vista
- South Keys
- Riverside South
- Stittsville
- Rockcliffe Park
- Cumberland
🌐 Need help outside of Ottawa? Visit our Disability Lawyer Ontario page for legal support across the province.
Where to Find Us
Location
Samfiru Tumarkin LLP
116 Albert Street, Suite 300
Ottawa, ON K1P 5G3
Get Directions
What Happens When You Contact Us
We know reaching out to a law firm can feel overwhelming. Here’s what you can expect when you connect with our Ottawa disability law team:
📞 Step 1: Free Consultation
You’ll speak with a member of our legal team – at no cost – about your situation and next steps.
📋 Step 2: We Review Your Claim
We’ll review your denial letter, medical records, and policy details to assess the strength of your case.
📣 Step 3: Clear Legal Advice
You’ll receive straightforward guidance, tailored to your specific circumstances. No jargon. No pressure.
📁 Step 4: We Handle the Process
From that point forward, we take over the paperwork and communications with the insurance company.
🔄 Step 5: Regular Updates
You’re never left wondering what’s happening. We keep you informed and involved – every step of the way.
Your Ottawa Disability Law Team
When your benefits are denied, the lawyer you choose matters. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our Ottawa-based disability lawyers have the experience, compassion, and legal expertise to guide you through every step of the claims process.
Meet Your Team
