Disability Lawyers


Disability Lawyers for Long-Term and Short-Term Disability Claims


Facing an injury or illness is overwhelming. When you’re also required to deal with a disability insurance company, the process can feel even more daunting—especially if your condition affects your ability to manage everyday tasks or earn an income.

Disability insurers often rely on complex policy language, medical reviews, and strict timelines to deny or delay benefits. Meanwhile, you may be coping with serious health challenges and financial strain.

At Kotak Law, we help level the playing field. Our experienced disability lawyers focus on securing fair outcomes for people whose long-term disability (LTD) or short-term disability (STD) claims have been denied, terminated, or delayed. We understand how insurers assess claims, and we know how to protect your rights.

Disability law is not a side practice for us—it is our primary focus. We represent clients across Ontario, Alberta, and throughout Canada, helping them challenge unfair insurer decisions and pursue the benefits they paid for.

Your Trusted Partners in Disability Law

Kotak Law is a trusted name in disability litigation, known for leadership, experience, and professional excellence.

Nainesh Kotak and Rajiv Haté are both recognized by Lexpert as leading lawyers in long-term disability law—an honour based on peer review by lawyers across Canada.

  • Kotak is a Past Chair of the Long-Term Disability Section of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association (OTLA)
  • Haté is the current Vice-Chair of the same OTLA section

These leadership roles reflect deep experience and an ongoing commitment to advancing fairness and best practices in disability law.

A Dedicated Law Firm for Disability Claims

Disability insurance claims are legally and medically complex. They often involve:

  • Extensive medical records and specialist reports
  • Conflicting insurer medical opinions
  • Functional and vocational assessments
  • Policy definitions such as own occupation” and any occupation”

Because Kotak Law focuses specifically on disability claims, we are able to anticipate insurer strategies and build strong, evidence-based cases from the outset.

We regularly represent clients in matters involving:

  • Long-term disability (LTD) denials and terminations
  • Short-term disability (STD) disputes
  • Mental health disability claims, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and burnout
  • Chronic pain, neurological, autoimmune, and invisible illnesses
  • Disability appeals, mediations, and court actions against insurers

Our team also includes experienced lawyers Kaity Yang and Avinaash (Avi) Laljie, who bring strong litigation skills, attention to detail, and clear communication to every file.

Experience Dealing With Disability Insurance Companies

Our lawyers deal with major Canadian disability insurers on a daily basis. We understand how claims are assessed, reviewed, and challenged—and where insurers’ decisions often fall short.

We frequently see claims denied or terminated after years of benefit payments, particularly when insurers reassess files under any occupation” definitions.

Our experience allows us to:

  • Identify weaknesses in insurer medical or vocational opinions
  • Ensure treating physicians’ evidence is properly presented
  • Push back against unreasonable surveillance or paper-only reviews
  • Advance claims through negotiation, mediation, or litigation when necessary

Insurance companies know Kotak Law as a firm that prepares disability cases thoroughly and pursues them seriously.

Compassionate, Client-First Representation

Many people who contact a disability lawyer feel frustrated, ignored, or overwhelmed by the claims process. At Kotak Law, communication and compassion are central to how we practise.

Clients can expect:

  • Clear, plain-language explanations of their disability benefits and rights
  • Regular updates and timely responses
  • Honest advice about timelines, risks, and realistic outcomes
  • Direct access to experienced disability lawyers

We approach every case with empathy and respect, recognizing the real impact disability has on individuals and families.

No Upfront Legal Fees for Disability Claims

Financial stress should not prevent access to legal help. Kotak Law typically handles disability claims on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

  • No upfront legal fees in most cases
  • Legal fees are generally payable only if compensation is recovered

We explain all fee arrangements clearly before you proceed, so you can focus on your health while we focus on your claim.

Disability Lawyer FAQs

What does a disability lawyer do?

A disability lawyer helps individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury obtain disability income benefits. This includes reviewing insurance policies, gathering medical and vocational evidence, communicating with insurers, and challenging unfair denials or terminations through appeal, mediation, or litigation.

When should I contact a disability lawyer?

You should consider speaking with a disability lawyer if your LTD or STD claim has been denied, terminated, or delayed, or if you need assistance completing disability forms. Early legal advice can help avoid mistakes that may weaken your claim.

Can a disability lawyer assist with mental health claims?

Yes. Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and burnout can qualify for disability benefits if they prevent you from working. These claims are often closely scrutinized by insurers, and Kotak Law has extensive experience advancing them.

How much do disability lawyers charge?

Most disability claims at Kotak Law are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are typically no upfront legal fees. Fees are usually payable only if compensation is recovered.

How long does a disability claim take?

Timelines vary depending on medical complexity, insurer position, and whether litigation is required. Some claims resolve through negotiation or mediation, while others take longer. A disability lawyer can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Insurer-Specific Disability FAQs

What should I do if my disability claim is denied by Manulife?

Manulife may deny claims based on disputes over medical evidence or policy definitions. You should review the denial letter, request your claim file, and ensure your medical evidence clearly supports your disability. Kotak Law has extensive experience handling Manulife LTD and STD claims.

How do I appeal a disability denial by Sun Life?

Sun Life often relies on internal medical or paper reviews. A denial does not necessarily mean the decision is correct. A disability lawyer can review whether Sun Life applied the correct policy definition and whether the evidence supports its conclusions.

What if Canada Life denies my LTD claim?

Canada Life may deny claims by asserting that a person can perform any occupation.” These decisions can often be challenged with proper medical and vocational evidence. Kotak Law regularly assists clients with Canada Life LTD denials.

How do I challenge a disability denial from Desjardins Insurance?

Desjardins may deny claims due to alleged insufficient medical support. You may have options to request reconsideration or pursue legal remedies. A disability lawyer can help assess your next steps.

What if RBC Insurance denies or terminates my disability benefits?

RBC Insurance may rely on insurer-retained medical consultants or policy interpretations. Legal advice can help determine whether the denial or termination is reasonable and how best to respond.

Community Leadership and Advocacy

Kotak Law’s commitment extends beyond individual claims. Our lawyers are actively involved in professional leadership, mental health advocacy, and community organizations, helping improve access to justice for people living with illness or injury.

Speak With a Disability Lawyer

If your long-term disability or short-term disability claim has been denied, delayed, or terminated—or if you are unsure of your rights—speaking with an experienced disability lawyer can make a meaningful difference.

Contact Kotak Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward clarity and justice.

 

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Email: info@kotaklaw.com

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Disability Claims
Disability Claims

Disability insurance companies may offer an internal appeal process and often it is waste of time. Insurer’s rarely change their decision through this appeal. A more effective solution is to have a disability lawyer commence a law suit against the insurance company. At Kotak Law we will issue your claim quickly and move your case forward towards a settlement. Remember you are not alone. We can help.

How long you are entitled to receive long term disability benefits depends on the wording of the insurance policy. Most policies provide for disability payments up to age 65 if you meet the definition of total disability. Some policies have shorter benefit periods and a few provide for payments beyond age 65.

Coverage for disability is governed by the insurance policy. In general long term disability policies will provide for payment for any type of illness or sickness that prevents you for performing the essential tasks of your employment and for payment after two years if you are prevented from performing any employment that you are suited to by way of education, training or experience. Some covered ailments include depression, anxiety, chronic pain, heart disease, cancer, fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, organ failure, strokes, inflammatory disorders and neurological impairments.

Insurance companies often deny short term disability claims. Some reasons insurance companies give are:

  • There is insufficient medical evidence.
  • Video surveillance shows you doing things you said you couldn’t do.
  • Your social media posts show you as active and not showing signs of depression.

At Kotak Law we help clients who have been denied short term disability. We can help. Call us for a free consultation.

A disability lawyer represents people whose disability benefits have been denied or cut off by an insurance company. They will gather medical evidence to establish that a claimant meets the definition of total disability as set out in the insurance contract. They will commence a claim against the disability insurer and obtain a settlement or court order with the instructions of the client.

At Kotak Law our practice focuses on helping clients receive disability benefits when their ability to work has been impaired by anxiety and depression. We obtain records and reports from doctors who have provided treatment and we present evidence in support of the claim in order to secure a just compensation award.

At Kotak Law we only get paid when we settle your case. Fees are calculated as a percentage of what is recovered plus disbursements. There are no hidden fees and everything is clearly set out in a written retainer.

  • I had an exceptional experience working with Kotak Law Firm. From the moment I reached out, their team was professional, responsive, and attentive to my needs. They took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided clear, sound legal advice at every step. Their expertise and dedication were evident, and I always felt confident in their ability to handle my legal matters. The personalized service and attention to detail were second to none. I highly recommend Kotak Law Firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation!

    Rishi Seeram Avatar Rishi Seeram
    April 18, 2025

    I am writing this with the intention of helping someone who really needs some help to fight the insurance industry for his/her disability claim. I had to help someone close to me get legal help wrt LTD and/or CPPD claim. While searching and reviewing many lawyers in town and their initial consultation/responses, I came across Kotak law led by Nainesh. In my experience in the past, most lawyers over promise and under deliver. However, my experience with Kotak law was completely different. They are competent, humble and very emphatic to your specific issue. Their fees are also transparent and more competitive than other lawyers. They analyzed the scenario and gave us complete breakdown of how they are going to approach the matter and timelines. Everything took place in the manner they explained in a timely fashion. I am grateful for their service. My advice to anyone needing LTD or CPPD related legal help, set aside your skepticism, go to Kotak law, have confidence and belief in them. They are good and competent people and want people like that on your side in a time of need .........

    Rashed S Avatar Rashed S
    March 18, 2025

    Extremely happy with the services provided by Avinaash Laljie! I could not have asked for better representation, he went above and beyond to ensure I was informed the whole time and provided me with excellent resolution.

    kt Avatar kt
    March 18, 2025
  • From the very first phone call at Kotak Law, Caroline and Alix were very friendly, patient and professional. They assisted me with my initial intake, and prioritized my case information from the very beginning. I was treated with courtesy, respect and compassion. The team collaborated and efficiently demonstrated active-listening while gathering critical and important case information. They provided exceptional customer service and problem-solving skills. My case was subsequently handled by Kaity and Gurbacan. I honestly cannot overemphasize how amazing, respected, valued and professional I was treated. I was so stressed and discouraged when my benefits got previously denied. Kaity and Gurbacan immediately put my mind at ease, and went over and beyond on numerous occasions to ensure I understood the entire process and case information. Kaity is very intelligent, friendly, super efficient, confident, professional and extremely knowledgeable. Her expertise and attention to detail relieved all of my concerns. Kaity and Gurbacan always made the time to answer all of my questions and concerns, without ever feeling flustered or rushed. Further, their response time in getting back to me by phone/email was always expeditious, even on evenings, weekends and statutory holidays. I highly recommend and enthusiastically endorse Kotak Law for anyone that is in need of legal representation relating to a disability claim. Kotak Law resolved my case, and I am so thankful and fortunate for their support and assistance. If I could give Kotak Law 10 stars, I definitely would because they really deserve it. Thank you so much Kotak Law for all of your dedication, support and ensuring the best possible outcome for my case. Further, putting my mind at ease from the very beginning, and supporting me every step of the way. Keep up the amazing work!

    Peter R Avatar Peter R
    March 18, 2025

    I am incredibly grateful to Rajiv and his assistant Gurbacan for the outstanding support and service they provided me. As a minimum wage worker, I was nervous and very concerned that I would be overlooked or seen as unworthy when seeking help, but from the moment I reached out to Rajiv’s office, I was treated with respect, dignity, and care. Rajiv’s professionalism, expertise, patience, and kindness made a world of difference. He took a great deal of time to thoroughly explain everything to me, ensuring I understood my options and the best course of action. His attention to detail and dedication to my case helped to reduce my anxiety and allowed me to focus on my health. Gurbacan was equally amazing – always responsive, approachable, and ready to assist with any questions or concerns. Together, they made an excellent team, and their compassionate approach made me feel empowered rather than discouraged. I can’t thank Rajiv and Gurbacan enough for their help. They made what could have been an overwhelming and stressful process much easier to navigate, and I will forever be grateful for their support. Highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a benefits lawyer who treats you with the respect and professionalism you deserve, no matter your circumstances!

    Lindsey McDowell Avatar Lindsey McDowell
    January 18, 2025

    Highly recommend! The staff is amazing! I contacted Kotak law for help with a denial of my LTD.From intake to settlement the staff were amazing, supportive and very knowledgeable. My lawyer Rajiv Haté and his law clerk Gurbacan, were absolutely the best to work with. Rajiv is so knowledgeable and got me the best outcome. He really fights for his clients and I’m beyond satisfied with the outcome and whole process! Definitely deserving of a 5 star rating! Thank you so much!

    Meena Chowdhury Avatar Meena Chowdhury
    December 18, 2024
  • Professional, efficient and successful! I would recommend this firm whole heartedly!

    Elaine Lay Avatar Elaine Lay
    November 18, 2024

    I cannot thank Kaity and Klara enough for their assistance with my mediation. From day one that I contacted Kotak Law I felt supported. Both Klara and Kaity were compassionate, knowledgeable, professional and attentive to my needs. I was able to get through my mediation without any issues as they walked me through the process and what to expect. I would recommend Kotak Law to anyone in need of legal assistance.

    Antonella Repole Avatar Antonella Repole
    October 11, 2024

    My daughter had a disability denial case in Edmonton. She worked with Rajiv Haté and his Team and she was very pleased with their services. On Mediation Day, I assisted her in the process and Rajiv did an excellent job negotiating our settlement. We ended up settling for 25% above our expected amount and only 5% short of our "best case" amount. I would recommend Rajiv to anyone who needed professional help in this area!

    Chris Evans Avatar Chris Evans
    October 2, 2024

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