How to Request Reconsideration at the HRTO (English / French)

Understanding the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario Form 20: Request for Reconsideration – Rule 26

If you have recently received a decision from the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) and believe that the decision warrants a second look, you might consider filing a Request for Reconsideration using Form 20. This official document is your formal way to ask the Tribunal to review its final decision, but it must be completed carefully and within the specified timeframe.

What is the Purpose of Form 20?

Form 20 serves as the formal application to request the Tribunal to reconsider a previous decision under Rule 26 of the Tribunal's procedures. The purpose is to bring new facts, evidence, or legal considerations to the Tribunal’s attention that could potentially change the outcome of your case. It is not a process to re-argue the case but rather a request based on specific grounds outlined by the Tribunal’s rules.

Who Should Fill Out This Form?

This form is intended for parties involved in a case before the HRTO—either the applicant (the person or organization who filed the original claim) or the respondent (the opposing party). If you are acting as a legal representative or lawyer, you should fill out the form on behalf of your client, indicating your role and contact details. It is essential that the person or organization seeking reconsideration completes the form accurately and submits it within the prescribed deadline.

How to Complete and Submit the Form

Step-by-Step Process

• Fill out the form: Provide your contact information, including your name, organization (if applicable), address, phone number, and email. Ensure all details are correct to facilitate communication.
• Identify the case: Include the Tribunal file number, your name, and the names of all respondents involved in the case.
• State your reasons: Check the boxes that apply to your situation, such as new evidence, lack of proper notice, or legal conflicts. Clearly explain your grounds for reconsideration in the space provided.
• Specify your desired outcome: Indicate what remedy or relief you are seeking if your request is granted.
• Explain any delays: If submitting beyond the 30-day window, provide a detailed reason for the delay and why the Tribunal should accept the late filing.
• Sign and date: Confirm the accuracy of your information by signing the form and dating it.

Delivery and Filing

Once completed, you must deliver a copy of the form to all parties involved and to the HRTO. If you email the form, you are consenting to electronic delivery. If you did not copy all parties when emailing, you must complete a Statement of Delivery (Form 23) and file it with the Tribunal. The form can be submitted via mail, email, or fax, depending on your preference and the Tribunal’s instructions.

Important Considerations and Common Errors

Submitting a Request for Reconsideration is a formal legal process, and certain errors can delay or jeopardize your application:

• Timing: The request must be filed within thirty (30) days of the final decision. Requests made after this period require a strong justification for the delay.
• Incomplete information: Failing to specify the grounds for reconsideration or omitting supporting reasons can result in rejection.
• Incorrect delivery: Not serving all parties or not filing the Statement of Delivery when required can cause procedural issues.
• Missing signatures: An unsigned or undated form may be considered incomplete.

Where to Find the Forms and Additional Support

The official forms, including Form 20, are available on the Tribunal’s website. If you require a paper copy or accessible format, contact the HRTO directly at:

• Address: 15 Grosvenor Street, Ground Floor, Toronto, ON M7A 2G6
• Phone: 416-326-1312 or toll-free at 1-866-598-0322
• Email: [email protected]

Carefully completing and submitting Form 20 is crucial for your request to be considered. Ensure all information is accurate, timely, and clearly presented to support your case for reconsideration.