In this video, Toronto commercial litigation lawyer Graeme R. Oddy addresses a common question: Will you need to appear in court during a commercial litigation matter in Ontario? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of dispute, how far the matter proceeds, and whether a settlement can be reached early. Many cases resolve before a client ever steps into a courtroom.

In some situations, the evidence is entirely based on documents, and both parties agree on their authenticity. When that happens, only legal arguments remain, and the client’s involvement in court is minimal or unnecessary. But when a matter proceeds to a hearing or trial and oral evidence is required, clients must attend and testify. We explain how we prepare clients for those appearances, making sure they know what to expect and are ready to present their evidence clearly and effectively. This video offers a clear and practical overview of what court involvement might look like during commercial litigation in Ontario.

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.