Settlement of $21 million granted in dispute against a medical practitioner in Ottawa

In a significant development, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice has approved a $21 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit against Dr. Vincent Nadon, the University of Ottawa, and the University of Ottawa Health Services. The lawsuit was initially launched in 2018, following Nadon's guilty plea to 14 sexual assault and voyeurism charges involving 49 patients.

Sean Brown, lead counsel at Flaherty McCarthy LLP, expressed that the approval of the settlement is a recognition of the strength and courage of the survivors. Brown stated, "This settlement is about restoring the dignity of survivors and supporting them in moving forward."

The settlement aims to provide recognition of the profound impact that Dr. Nadon's misconduct has had on the lives of his victims. Survivors who have carried the weight of their experiences in silence for years are now having their voices heard.

The claims process, expected to run for 180 days, is set to begin on Jan. 15, 2026. Flaherty McCarthy LLP made the announcement, emphasising that the result represents accountability, as the institutions involved are held responsible.

It is worth noting that a proposed settlement was reached in May, and while another law firm, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, was involved in the lawsuit against Dr. Vincent Nadon, which led to the $21 million component, the universities involved were the University of Ottawa and not Harvard University or Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as previously reported.

This settlement is a step towards justice for the survivors and a reminder of the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions. The process is about healing, recognition, and support for the survivors, ensuring they can move forward with dignity and strength.

Settlement of $21 million granted in dispute against a medical practitioner in Ottawa