Many clients make a critical mistake in commercial litigation: waiting too long to involve a lawyer. What may seem like a simple process at first—drafting a statement of claim or defence—often includes procedural and legal considerations that are easy to miss without proper guidance. In Ontario, these early pleadings play a central role in defining the legal positions and remedies available throughout the case. Without a clear understanding of what needs to be included, clients may inadvertently limit their legal options or weaken their position before the matter ever reaches a courtroom.

Commercial litigation lawyer Graeme Oddy explains how early legal input helps frame a case effectively and why attempting to manage the initial stages without professional support can negatively affect the final outcome. Drawing from litigation experience, we highlight how timing, precision, and legal strategy in the early phases can significantly influence success.

Graeme Oddy joined Devry Smith Frank LLP (‘DSF’) as an associate lawyer in 2022 in our commercial litigation department. He holds a B.A. (Hons) and a J.D. from the University of Toronto. He was called to the Bar in 2018. Graeme has been involved in a broad range of commercial litigation matters, including contract disputes, shareholder and partnership disputes, professional negligence claims and disciplinary proceedings, mortgage enforcement litigation, fraudulent conveyances, injunctions, claims against directors and officers, appeals, and commercial arbitrations.

Graeme also has experience in tax litigation and dispute resolution, particularly related to capital gains on dispositions of real property, virtual currencies, and other commodities. His work includes preparation for CRA audits, objections to reassessments, and administrative appeals.

For legal support in any commercial litigation matters, please contact Graeme by calling 416-446-5810 or by emailing info@devrylaw.ca.