FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT ASSESSITY

What does Assessity do?

Assessity prepares written analytical reports for Ontario law firms involved in Solicitors Act assessment proceedings. We examine billing records against the nine-factor framework established in Cohen v. Kealey & Blaney and document our findings in plain language. Our reports are observational and documentary  we do not draw legal conclusions or provide legal advice.

Who are your clients?

We work exclusively with Ontario law firms. We do not accept engagements from individual members of the public, self-represented parties, or clients without law firm representation. This is a strict B2B-only practice.

Are you lawyers?

No. Assessity staff are not lawyers and do not provide legal advice. Our reports are analytical tools prepared for use by lawyers in assessment proceedings. We operate within the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) boundary established under the Law Society Act, 2006.

What geographic area do you serve?

Ontario only. Our work is specific to the Ontario Solicitors Act, RSO 1990, c. S.15, and the procedural framework applicable in Ontario courts and assessment offices.

ENGAGEMENTS AND PROCESS

How do I initiate an engagement?

Use our Contact page to submit an inquiry or send an email directly to info@assessity.ca. All engagements begin with a file review to confirm eligibility and scope.

What materials do I need to provide?

Typically: the billing records in dispute, the retainer agreement (if available), any relevant court orders or certificates of appointment, and background on the nature of the dispute. We will confirm the exact document list during intake.

How are files transmitted?

We accept files via secure encrypted transmission. Specific upload instructions are provided at the time of engagement. We do not accept files by standard unencrypted email.

What happens to my files after the engagement?

Assessity operates on a zero-data-retention (ZDR) model. All materials transmitted to us  including billing records, client files, and personal information  are permanently deleted upon delivery of the completed report. We retain no copies.

Do you keep client records?

No. Our ZDR model means we hold no client files beyond the active engagement period. We do not build a client database, and we do not retain billing records or personal information.

SERVICES AND PRICING

What service tiers do you offer?

We offer four tiers based on the amount in dispute: Standard ($1,250 / under $25,000 / 4872 hours), Extended ($2,250 / $25,000$75,000 / 57 business days), Comprehensive ($3,500 / $75,000$150,000 / 1014 business days), and Custom (over $150,000, pricing and timeline on consultation).

What does the report include?

Each report documents the billing record against the nine Cohen factors, notes where the billing record aligns with or departs from applicable benchmarks, identifies patterns in the documentation, and summarizes the analytical findings in plain language suitable for use by counsel in assessment proceedings.

Do you provide opinions on whether fees are reasonable?

No. We do not provide legal opinions. We document what the billing record shows relative to each Cohen factor. Whether fees are reasonable is a legal conclusion that falls within the exclusive jurisdiction of lawyers and the courts.

Can you testify as an expert witness?

No. Assessity does not provide expert witness services and our staff do not testify. Our reports are written analytical documents intended for use by counsel.

PRIVACY AND COMPLIANCE

Are you PIPEDA compliant?

Yes. Our intake and transmission protocols are designed for compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Combined with our ZDR model, client information is handled with the highest standard of discretion.

How do I know my client's information is protected?

Our zero-data-retention model means no client information persists beyond the active engagement. We do not store, share, or monetize client data. Secure transmission protocols are required for all file transfers.

GETTING STARTED

How do I know if my matter qualifies?

Most Solicitors Act assessment matters involving billing records in dispute are eligible. Use our Contact page to describe the matter and we will confirm eligibility within one business day.

What if my matter is urgent?

Contact us directly at info@assessity.ca and describe the timeline. We accommodate expedited requests where capacity permits. Expedited engagements may involve additional fees.

Can I engage you on multiple files?

Yes. Firms with ongoing volume in solicitor assessment work are encouraged to contact us to discuss standing arrangement terms.