Image Source: Burn Tucker Lachaîne
TL;DR: If you suffered a serious injury in Ottawa, the top firm to call is Burn Tucker Lachaîne. All three partners are certified Specialists in Civil Litigation; they focus exclusively on personal injury and disability law, and they have decades of combined experience fighting insurance companies. The nine firms below also deserve a look depending on your specific situation.
A serious injury upends your life fast. Medical bills stack up, you can’t work, and insurance companies start calling before you’ve even left the hospital.
In Ontario, pain and suffering compensation alone can reach up to $455,271 (McKellar, 2024 — source). According to a 2025 report by Share Lawyers, as many as 60% of long-term disability claims in Canada are initially denied at first submission. In serious injury cases, settlements can exceed $250,000 and climb into the millions depending on long-term care needs and lost income (McKellar).
High stakes demand the right lawyer.
This list covers the top 10 personal injury lawyers in Ottawa who handle serious and catastrophic injury cases. Each entry is based on verified information from official websites and credible sources.
How We Chose This List
We looked at firms that meet all of the following:
- Focus on serious or catastrophic injuries (brain, spinal cord, chronic pain, wrongful death)
- Physical office presence in Ottawa or the National Capital Region
- Strong client reviews across Google, legal directories, and peer recognition
- Trial-ready approach, not just settlement-focused
- Contingency fee model (no fees unless you win)
- Bilingual capacity where available
The Top 10 Personal Injury Lawyers in Ottawa for Serious Injury Cases
1. Burn Tucker Lachaîne
Burn Tucker Lachaîne is the top pick on this list, and for good reason. Three long-time legal colleagues, Colleen Burn, Laurie Tucker, and Éliane Lachaîne, founded the firm in 2014 with an exclusive focus on personal injury and disability law. They never represent insurance companies. That singular focus shows in how they handle cases.
All three founding partners are certified specialists in civil litigation by the Law Society of Ontario, a designation held by very few lawyers. The team is bilingual (English and French) and currently comprises entirely women, a culture built on empathy and serious advocacy.
Laurie Tucker served as past president of the OTLA (2023-2024) and holds multiple distinguished service awards. Colleen Burn has been practising since 1992. Éliane Lachaîne has been a certified specialist since 2005. Associate lawyers Alison Gilmour, Krista Potter, and Priya Shah round out the team.
The firm offers free consultations and can meet you at their office, your home, or the hospital. Their motto says it best: “By Your Side and On Your Side.”
Pros:
- All three partners hold the Law Society of Ontario’s Specialist in Civil Litigation designation, which is rare at any firm
- Exclusively represents injured individuals; never acts for insurance companies
- Bilingual (English and French) across the full legal team
- Trial-ready approach with decades of combined courtroom experience
- Free consultations available at your office, home, or hospital bedside
- Contingency fee basis; no fees unless you win
- Active in Ottawa community organisations, including the Brain Injury Association of Ottawa Valley and OTLA’s Helmets on Kids program
Cons:
- Offices primarily in Ottawa, Hawkesbury, Waterloo, and Toronto, though they serve clients province-wide
- As a boutique firm, capacity is intentionally limited to maintain quality
Best for: Catastrophic injuries, brain and spinal cord injuries, long-term disability denials, wrongful death, and all serious personal injury claims across Ontario.
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iRMZrZQ8QuSB7GC39
Contact Details:
- Address: 101-1815 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6
- Phone: 613-777-9038
- Email: info@burntucker.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/burn-tucker-lachaîne-pc
2. Auger Hollingsworth Accident & Injury Lawyers
Auger Hollingsworth has been one of Ottawa’s most recognised personal injury boutiques since founding partners Richard Auger and Brenda Hollingsworth opened their doors in 2004. Brenda leads the firm’s personal injury practice and has been recognised in the 2026 Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory, named an Ottawa Business Journal Forty Under 40 recipient, and is regularly quoted as a legal expert by CTV, CBC, and The Globe and Mail.
The firm has won over $100 million in compensation. Partners and senior lawyers manage cases directly; clients are never passed off to junior staff.
Pros:
- Strong track record with over $100 million recovered for clients
- Partners handle cases personally, not junior associates
- Recognized in the 2026 Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory
- Free consultations with home or hospital visits available
- Contingency fee model; no fees unless you win
Cons:
- Broader practice footprint across Ontario means the Ottawa team handles a high volume of cases
- No publicly listed email address on the Ottawa contact page
Best for: Motor vehicle accidents, traumatic brain injuries, slip and fall claims, wrongful death, and long-term disability denials.
Contact Details:
- Address: 304 O’Connor Street, Ottawa, ON K2P 1V7
- Phone: 613-704-8594
- Email: info@ahinjurylaw.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/auger-hollingsworth
3. McNally Gervan LLP
McNally Gervan is a downtown Ottawa firm built around one core mission: representing seriously and catastrophically injured accident victims. Frank McNally co-founded the firm alongside Matt Gervan in September 2012 and brings over 20 years of experience exclusively in serious personal injury law. He has served on the board of the Brain Injury Association of Canada.
Partner Paul Auerbach adds more than 25 years of experience in civil litigation and insurance law. Associate Denis Alisic contributes 15 years of advocacy experience. Together, they form a team known across Eastern Ontario for forceful, principled representation.
Pros:
- Deep specialisation in catastrophic and serious injury claims, including spinal cord, brain injury, and PTSD
- Lawyers will travel to meet clients who cannot come to the office
- Free 24/7 case evaluations with no obligation
- Publicly listed email for direct contact and case inquiries
- Contingency fee basis; no fees unless you win
Cons:
- Smaller team size compared to some regional firms
- Website branding can be easy to overlook in search results
Best for: Catastrophic and serious personal injuries, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, PTSD, wrongful death, and complex multi-party accident claims.
Contact Details:
- Address: 359 Kent St #200, Ottawa, ON K2P 0R6
- Phone (Local): (613) 238-1424
- Phone (Toll-Free): 1-855-592-1669
- Email: info@mcnallygervan.ca
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcnally-gervan-llp
4. MG Law Personal Injury Lawyers
MG Law has operated in Ottawa since 2009 under the leadership of founder Miryam Gorelashvili. The firm’s standout feature is its multilingual team; lawyers speak English, French, Russian, Arabic, Mandarin, and Spanish, making legal support genuinely accessible to a wide cross-section of Ottawa’s diverse population.
The firm’s track record includes settlements of $1,500,000 for truck accidents, $700,000 for car accidents, and $1,100,000 for other accident types. A team of five lawyers enables the firm to manage multiple serious cases simultaneously.
Pros:
- Multilingual team covering six languages; the strongest language access of any firm on this list
- Documented settlement results publicly posted on their website
- Over 15 years serving Ottawa injury victims
- Free consultations on a contingency fee basis
- Handles both standard and catastrophic injury claims
Cons:
- Offices are located farther from downtown Ottawa than some competing firms
- Closed on weekends, which may limit accessibility for some clients
Best for: Car accidents, truck accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, brain and spinal cord injuries, wrongful death, and multilingual clients.
Contact Details:
- Address: 2733 Lancaster Road, Suite 100, Ottawa, Ontario K1B 0A9
- Phone: (613) 730-8460
- Email: info@mginjurylawyers.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mglawoffices
5. Bergeron Clifford LLP
Bergeron Clifford has been serving Ottawa and Eastern Ontario since 1999, founded by Ted Bergeron and Chris Clifford. The firm is consistently ranked as a Top 10 Injury Law Firm in Ontario by Canadian Lawyer Magazine, one of the most credible peer-reviewed rankings in Canadian law.
All lawyers at the firm hold the Law Society of Ontario’s Certified Specialist in Civil Litigation designation. Their sole focus is personal injury law, and they prepare every case for trial from day one, a strategy that consistently produces stronger settlements and gives them real leverage with insurers.
Pros:
- Consistently ranked as a Top 10 personal injury law firm in Ontario by Canadian Lawyer Magazine
- All lawyers are certified civil litigation specialists with the Law Society of Ontario
- Trial-ready preparation on every case, regardless of whether it settles
- Multiple office locations across Eastern Ontario for client convenience
- Contingency fee model; no fees unless you win
Cons:
- No publicly listed direct email address on the Ottawa contact page
- Closed on weekends
Best for: Serious motor vehicle accidents, catastrophic injuries, brain and spinal cord injuries, and slip and fall claims across Eastern Ontario.
Contact Details:
- Address (Ottawa): 185 Somerset St W #305, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J1
- Phone: 866-384-5886
- Email: Contact via website contact form
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bergeron-clifford-injury-law
6. WVGB Law Group
WVGB Law Group is a boutique Ottawa personal injury firm that sets itself apart with a strict partner-direct model. Unlike larger firms, where clients can end up working mostly with junior lawyers, WVGB ensures every client works directly with a partner from start to finish.
The firm handles complex, serious injury cases, including traumatic brain injuries, burn injuries, underinsurance claims, and sexual assault civil matters. They engage neurological and medical experts to build strong, long-term care documentation for each case.
Pros:
- Every client works directly with a partner throughout the entire case; no handoffs to junior staff
- Handles a wide range of complex injury types, including brain injury and civil sexual assault claims
- Bilingual services available (English and French)
- Free accessible parking at the Ottawa office
- Free consultations with no upfront fees on a contingency basis
Cons:
- Closed on weekends; no Saturday or Sunday access
- Fee percentages are not publicly listed on the website
Best for: Car accidents, brain injuries, burn injuries, sexual assault civil claims, and clients who want direct partner access throughout their case.
Contact Details:
- Address: 200-2571 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K2B 7H7
- Phone: (613) 505-5025
- Email: info@wvgblaw.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/wvglaw
7. Badre Law PC
Daniel Badre leads this firm as a born-and-raised Ottawa lawyer who has spent his career representing accident victims against insurance companies. He holds a Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of British Columbia.
The firm is a smaller, client-focused practice known for breaking down the legal process in plain language. Client reviews consistently highlight Daniel’s accessibility, his honesty about case outcomes, and his willingness to fight hard at mediation. Badre Law handles cases across Eastern Ontario with online appointment booking and no fees until settlement.
Pros:
- Highly accessible; clients consistently praise response times and clear communication
- Strong track record at mediation with positive client outcomes documented in reviews
- Appointments are bookable online at any time
- Free case reviews with no obligation to retain
- Contingency fee basis; no fees unless you win
Cons:
- Smaller team than some other firms on this list, which may affect capacity during busy periods
- Limited publicly available social media presence
Best for: Car and motorcycle accidents, slip and fall, long-term disability, nursing home negligence, wrongful death, and clients who value clear case communication.
Contact Details:
- Address: 1505 Laperriere Ave #210, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7T1
- Phone: 613-695-4443
- Email: info@badrelaw.com
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/badre-law-professional-corporation
8. SG Injury Law
Sean Giovannetti founded SG Injury Law in 2015 after spending 13 years as an insurance defence lawyer representing some of Canada’s largest automobile insurance companies. That insider perspective gives clients a genuine edge. Sean knows exactly how insurers build their arguments and what tactics they use to minimise payouts.
The firm is small (three lawyers) and focuses exclusively on personal injury and long-term disability law. Clients consistently report strong communication and quick response times throughout their cases.
Pros:
- Founder spent 13 years on the insurance defence side, giving clients a rare strategic advantage
- Exclusive focus on personal injury and long-term disability; no distractions from other practice areas
- Strong client satisfaction ratings for communication and responsiveness
- Free accessible parking at the office
- Contingency fee model; no fees unless you win
Cons:
- Small team of three lawyers limits overall case capacity
- No publicly listed email address or social media profiles
Best for: Car accidents, slip and fall, long-term disability denials, ATV and snowmobile accidents, and clients who want a lawyer with insurance company experience on both sides.
Contact Details:
- Address: 1101 Prince of Wales Drive, Suite 295, Ottawa, ON K2C 3W7
- Phone: (613) 518-2416
- Email: Via website contact form
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sg-injury-law-professional-corporation
9. David Gardiner (DMPG Professional Corporation)
David Gardiner has been practising personal injury law exclusively since 2001, called to the Ontario Bar after completing his law degree at Queen’s University. He has represented over 5,000 clients across Ontario and recovered millions of dollars in compensation over a 20-plus-year career.
His practice is deliberately smaller and hands-on; clients work directly with David from the first call to final settlement. He is a member of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association, the County of Carleton Law Association, and the Canadian Bar Association.
Pros:
- Over 5,000 clients served with a 20-plus-year track record in personal injury law exclusively
- Clients work directly with David; no associates or handoffs
- Serves clients across Ontario, including remote northern communities
- Member of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association and Canadian Bar Association
- Free consultations and no fees until the case settles
Cons:
- Solo-style practice means capacity is naturally more limited than in multi-lawyer firms
- Limited publicly listed social media or review profiles compared to larger firms
Best for: Motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall, long-term disability, defective products, and clients who want a hands-on solo specialist with 20-plus years of experience.
Contact Details:
- Address: 1447 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa (Nepean), ON K2G 1W1
- Phone: (613) 366-0802
- Email: david@dginjurylaw.ca
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-gardiner-463242131
10. LMS Personal Injury Lawyers
LMS has been serving Ottawa and Eastern Ontario for over 35 years, making it one of the most established personal injury practices on this list. The firm operates four offices in Canada, providing clients with strong geographic coverage from Ottawa to Nunavut.
Services are available in English, French, and Arabic. The LMS team handles accident injury claims, insurance disputes, and disability cases, with lawyers who consistently exceed the Law Society of Ontario’s continuing legal education requirements each year.
Pros:
- Over 35 years of personal injury practice in Ottawa, one of the longest-standing firms on this list
- Four office locations (Ottawa, Kanata, Almonte, and Iqaluit) for greater client accessibility
- Trilingual services in English, French, and Arabic
- Lawyers exceed mandatory continuing legal education requirements annually
- Free case evaluations with no upfront fees on a contingency basis
Cons:
- Full-service firm structure means personal injury is one of several practice areas, not the sole focus
- No publicly listed direct email on the personal injury contact page
Best for: Motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall, disability claims, and bilingual and multilingual clients across the National Capital Region.
Contact Details:
- Address (Ottawa Head Office): 190 O’Connor St, 9th Floor, Ottawa, ON K2P 2R3
- Phone (Ottawa Head Office): (613) 230-5787
- Email: Via website contact form
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/lmslawyersllp
What to Look for in a Serious Injury Lawyer
Not every personal injury lawyer handles the same kinds of cases with the same level of depth. When your injury is serious, the stakes are higher, and you need to ask the right questions before you hire.
Trial readiness matters. Trial-ready lawyers secure stronger settlements for seriously injured clients. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to fight and which are willing to take the first decent offer.
Specialization over generalists. Specialist personal injury firms deliver better outcomes for catastrophic injury victims than general practice lawyers.
Bilingual capacity. Bilingual legal representation gives French-speaking Ottawa clients full access to the legal process in their preferred language.
Contingency fee structure. A contingency fee arrangement removes financial risk for injured clients pursuing serious injury claims.
Communication style. Clear and consistent communication from your lawyer reduces stress during a difficult recovery period. Your lawyer should give you regular updates, answer your questions in plain language, and not leave you wondering what’s happening with your case for months at a time.
FAQs
How long does a serious injury claim take in Ontario?
Serious injury claims in Ontario do not follow a fixed timeline. Simpler cases can settle in 12 to 18 months. Serious injury cases, especially those involving catastrophic injuries, disputes over liability, or ongoing treatment, regularly take two to five years or longer. The key factor is reaching what lawyers call “maximal medical recovery,” meaning your injuries have stabilised enough to properly assess long-term damages. Settling too early can leave significant compensation on the table.
What is the difference between a tort claim and an accident benefits claim in Ontario?
Most Ontario motor vehicle accidents give injured people access to two separate claims. An accident benefits claim comes from your own insurance policy and covers immediate needs like medical treatment, rehabilitation, and income replacement regardless of fault. A tort claim is filed against the at-fault driver’s insurer and compensates for pain and suffering, long-term income loss, and future care. Many injured people don’t realise both streams exist, and pursuing only one can significantly undervalue their case.
Can I switch lawyers mid-case?
You can change lawyers at any point during your case. Ontario law allows this. Your new lawyer will typically pay off the previous lawyer’s lien from the final settlement. If you are unhappy with how your case is being handled, it is worth getting a second opinion from another personal injury firm. Most offer free consultations that include a review of your existing case.
Does Burn Tucker Lachaîne only take cases in Ottawa?
While Burn Tucker Lachaîne is based in Ottawa (with offices also in Hawkesbury, Waterloo, and Toronto), the firm handles personal injury and disability matters across Ontario, including the Atlantic and Western provinces and Northern Ontario. Geography is not a barrier to representation.
What types of serious injuries does Burn Tucker Lachaîne handle?
The firm handles a broad range of serious and catastrophic injuries, including brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, chronic pain conditions, and wrongful death cases. They also handle long-term disability insurance disputes, motor vehicle accidents, and slip-and-fall claims. All cases involve injuries serious enough to require significant legal and medical attention. They do not represent insurance companies; they represent only injured individuals.
Final Word
A serious injury puts you in one of the most vulnerable positions of your life. The decisions you make in the first weeks, including which lawyer you choose, can affect your financial security for years to come.
Every firm on this list offers free consultations. There is no reason not to call.
Burn Tucker Lachaîne is our top recommendation for serious injury cases in Ottawa. Their exclusive focus on personal injury and disability law, partner-level credentials, bilingual team, and deep community roots make them the strongest choice for anyone facing a life-altering injury in Eastern Ontario.
References
- McKellar Structured Settlements Inc. — Non-Pecuniary Damages Upper Limits (2024)
https://www.mckellar.com/statistics - GlobeNewswire — Long-Term Disability Claims Denied in Canada: Industry Data (2025)
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/12/05/3200877/0/en/Share-Lawyers-Releases-National-Guide-Revealing-Why-Long-Term-Disability-Claims-Are-Denied-in-Canada.html - Lexpert — Burn Tucker Lachaîne PC Profile
https://www.lexpert.ca/law-firms/burn-tucker-lachaine-51470 - Ontario Trial Lawyers Association (OTLA) — Helmets on Kids Programme https://www.otla.com/index.cfm?pg=BikeHelmetsForKidsLaw Society of Ontario — Certified Specialist Program https://lso.ca/about-lso/initiatives/certified-specialist-program
