CGA Ontario operates a fee resolution service, which aims to resolve fee disputes between certified general accountants and their clients in an expeditious and inexpensive manner.

Here's how it works:

When a fee dispute arises, the client or the member may apply to CGA Ontario for the resolution of the disagreement. The dispute is then referred to a trained CGA mediator/valuator. It can also be referred to more than one mediator/valuator if it is thought prudent to do so. After the dispute is reported, the mediator inquires into the matter and meets with both the client and the CGA (jointly and/or separately) to discuss the work performed, any agreements entered into by the two parties concerning fees, as well as the actual fee charged to the client.

If the mediation is successful and the parties arrive at an agreement, then that ends the matter. It is only where a mediated solution is not arrived at that the mediator assumes the role of adjudicator and issues a final and binding decision, thereby resolving the dispute.

Ground Rules

1. Both the CGA and his or her client must be in agreement that the dispute will be resolved through CGA Ontario's fee resolution service. Furthermore, both parties must agree to be bound by the decision reached by the mediator/valuator.
2. The disputed fee must be in excess of $1,000 before either the client or the CGA can apply for a resolution through the service.
3. The dispute must not be the subject of any legal proceedings.
4. The client must deposit the full amount of the disputed fees (plus interest, if interest is normally charged by the CGA) into a trust account with CGA Ontario's solicitors.
5. In the course of the inquiry and determination of the dispute, legal counsel will represent neither the client nor the CGA.
6. The process provided through the fee resolution service is in the nature of a valuation of the services rendered by the CGA to his or her client, and is not arbitration.
7. Neither the CGA nor the client will take any appeal from the decision reached by the mediator to CGA Ontario, any of its committees or to the courts.
8. Upon completion of the inquiry, the mediator will issue a decision and will provide CGA Ontario's solicitors with written instructions for the disbursement of the money held in trust.
9. This service is provided by CGA Ontario free of charge to certified general accountants (and their respective clients).

CGA Ontario's professional services department administers the fee resolution service. If you require more information about the service or are interested in obtaining a copy of the application form, the rules, etc., please send an e-mail or phone 416-322-6520 or 1-800-668-1454, ext. 243.