Robert M. Durante 5YEARSAWARDED

Robert M. Durante

recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2017
Awarded Practice Areas
Insurance Law Personal Injury Litigation
Robert M. Durante
Robert M. Durante
Toronto, ON
Works at
Oatley Vigmond LLP

9 Best Lawyers awards

Oatley Vigmond LLP logo

Biography

Rob Durante was called to the Ontario Bar in 1997 after completing his articles with a law firm focused on defending insurance companies in personal injury claims. During that time, Rob developed a strong interest in representing individuals rather than insurers. He joined Oatley Vigmond LLP in 1997 and has since devoted his practice to advocating for people and families affected by serious injuries. Based in Barrie, Ontario, Rob’s work is centered on pursuing fair outcomes for clients navigating complex insurance and personal injury matters.

Rob practices primarily in Insurance Law and Personal Injury Litigation, acting for individuals who have suffered catastrophic and life-altering injuries. His background in insurance defence provides him with insight into how insurers assess and respond to claims, which informs his approach when advancing his clients’ interests.

Rob earned his undergraduate degree in psychology from McGill University before completing his law degree at Queen’s University. His academic background supports his interest in the analytical and problem-solving aspects of legal practice. He approaches each case as a unique set of facts requiring careful assessment, strategic planning, and attention to detail.

One of the more significant matters Rob worked on involved a client who sustained a serious brain injury following a motor vehicle collision after becoming intoxicated at a workplace holiday event. Rob was part of the litigation team that pursued a claim against the employer, resulting in a settlement that contributed to broader discussions around employer responsibilities at work-related social functions.

Rob has represented clients before all levels of court in Ontario. In addition to his litigation practice, he serves on the board of the Brain Injury Association of Sudbury & District. He has also been invited to speak at professional education programs and conferences across Canada on topics including personal injury litigation, accident benefits, insurance disputes, and commercial host liability, with organizations such as the Canadian Bar Association, the Law Society of Ontario, The Advocates’ Society, and the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association.

Works at
Oatley Vigmond LLP

9 Best Lawyers awards

Oatley Vigmond LLP logo

Locations

Education

  • Queen’s University, J.D.
  • McGill University, Psychology

Bar Admissions

  • Ontario, Ontario Bar Association, 1997

Court Admissions

  • Ontario Court of Appeal
  • Ontario Superior Court of Justice
  • Ontario Divisional Court

Affiliations

  • Brain Injury Association of Sudbury & District - Board Member

Client Testimonials

Awards & Focus

Recognized in The Best Lawyers in Canada 2026 for work in:
  • Insurance Law
  • Personal Injury Litigation
Additional Areas of Practice:
  • Medical Negligence
  • Professional Malpractice Law

Q&A

I represent people who have suffered serious injuries. I believe every client benefits from a true team approach. Rather than having one lawyer handle every aspect of a case, I build a dedicated team that typically includes an associate lawyer, law clerk, legal assistants, Accident Benefits Specialists, and me as the lead lawyer. This collaborative approach allows us to provide responsive client service while ensuring every aspect of a case receives the attention it deserves.

One of the most common questions I receive is, "How much will it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?"

The answer is simple: clients never pay us anything upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we are only paid if we successfully recover compensation on their behalf. This fee arrangement allows people to pursue their legal rights without worrying about paying legal fees while they are recovering from a serious injury.

One of the most significant matters I worked on this past year was arguing an appeal before the Ontario Court of Appeal in the Roberta Place class action. The defendants sought to overturn the motion judge's decision certifying the action as a class proceeding.

The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, allowing the case to continue as a class action against Roberta Place Long-Term Care Home. It was a meaningful decision that allows the claims of residents and their families to move forward together and seek justice for the many residents who died there during the pandemic.

One of the biggest challenges is navigating the delays affecting Ontario's civil justice system. Court backlogs and limited judicial resources can significantly slow the progress of cases, even when clients need answers and financial support as quickly as possible. While these systemic delays are outside our control, we remain focused on moving each case forward as efficiently as possible and keeping clients informed throughout the process.

Outside of my practice, I enjoy staying active through regular exercise, trying new recipes in the kitchen, and travelling with my family whenever I have the opportunity. These interests help me recharge and bring balance to the demands of my legal practice.

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