Question 1

What is a Mareva injunction?

Accepted Answer

A Mareva injunction (also called a freezing order) is a court order that prevents a party from disposing of or moving assets to avoid satisfying a potential judgment. It is an urgent remedy typically obtained without notice to the other party.

Question 2

How quickly can you freeze someone's assets?

Accepted Answer

In genuinely urgent cases, a Mareva motion can be brought to the court on short notice — sometimes without notice to the other side where warning them would risk assets disappearing. The court controls the timing, and the strength of the evidence determines how quickly relief can realistically be obtained, which is why early preparation matters.

Question 3

What should I do right now if I suspect fraud or that assets are being moved?

Accepted Answer

Preserve everything. Keep all records, communications, account statements, and transfer details, and avoid alerting the person you suspect, as notice can prompt assets to be moved or hidden. Do not delete anything or confront anyone before getting advice. The sooner you speak with counsel, the more options remain available to trace and preserve funds.

Question 4

What urgent remedies can a court order in a fraud case?

Accepted Answer

Ontario courts have several urgent tools. A Mareva injunction (freezing order) can prevent a party from moving or dissipating assets pending litigation. An Anton Piller order allows the search and preservation of evidence before it can be destroyed. A Norwich order can compel a third party, such as a bank, to disclose information needed to identify wrongdoers or trace funds. Which remedy fits depends on the facts of your matter.

Question 5

How do fees and scope work for an urgent matter?

Accepted Answer

KLF works from a clearly scoped mandate with the fee arrangement agreed in writing before work begins, so you understand the basis of our fees from the outset. Urgent matters are often handled in defined stages — for example, an initial assessment, then any urgent court steps — so the scope and cost of each phase are clear. We discuss the approach with you before proceeding.

Question 6

How quickly can the process move?

Accepted Answer

Urgent injunctive relief can be sought from the court on short notice, and in genuinely urgent cases a motion can be brought without notice to the other side where giving notice would risk assets being moved. How fast a matter proceeds depends on its facts, the evidence available, and the court's schedule. The earlier counsel is engaged, the more readily these urgent steps can be pursued.

Fraud, Asset Recovery and Urgent Remedies

Serious Fraud and Ponzi Schemes

Asset Preservation and Urgent Relief

Appeals to the Divisional Court

Practical Strategies for Recovery

Risk Management & Fraud Prevention

Initial Assessment

Strategic Planning

Resolution