January 20, 2009

Canada Pension Plan disability benefit appeals information session

If you help Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability appellants before Review Tribunals, the Office of the Commissioner of Review Tribunals (OCRT) is planning an information session that might interest you. The OCRT administers appeals for people who have been denied CPP or Old Age Security benefits by the Department of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Most appeals concern CPP disability benefits.

This session, to be held in the Cristal Ballroom of the Metropolitan Hotel in Vancouver on March 11, 2009, will provide important information on OCRT processes, key legal issues, and current initiatives that will affect you and your clients. Speakers include the commissioner and senior OCRT staff, as well as a panel of Review Tribunal members, covering practical considerations for effective advocacy before a review tribunal. You will also have the opportunity to participate in small groups with OCRT representatives to share your questions and ideas.

Get information on the appeal process from appeal receipt to decision release, along with practical tips and reminders at each stage. Be among the first to learn about plans for a more case-centred approach to enhance the quality and timeliness of hearings. Hear about important and practical legal issues for presenting your case, the latest legal developments, and resources available from the OCRT. Put yourself in the decision-maker’s shoes. Learn what Review Tribunal members regard as effective representation for appellants.

Attendance is free, but space is limited. If you are interested in attending, please contact Lise Lance-Bisaillon by e-mail at lise.lancebisaillon@ocrt-bctr.gc.ca or by phone at 613-946-7696.