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.
Kotak Personal Injury Law
Toll Free: 1‑888‑GO‑KOTAK
Fax: (905) 755-8901
Email: info@kotaklaw.com


Chronic Pain
CPP Disability Benefits
Depression and Anxiety
Fibromyalgia
Headaches and Migraines
Other LTD Ailments
Disability Claim FAQ
Short Term Disability



