Court approves $4 million settlement in Sheila Morrison Schools class action

PLAINTIFFS' COUNSEL IN WILLIAMSON V. SHEILA MORRISON SCHOOLS

TORONTO, March 19, 2013 /CNW/ - On March 12, 2013, the Honourable Justice Paul Perell of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice approved the $4 million settlement of Sheila Morrison Schools class action. The action involved allegations of abuse of students at the school from its opening in 1977 to its closure in 2009.

The Sheila Morrison School was a private school located in Utopia, near Barrie, Ontario. The school was primarily directed at students with learning disabilities, behavioural issues or special needs. The school closed in 2009.

Justice Perell found that the settlement was fair, reasonable and in the best interests of the class members, particularly in light of the risks if the action continued: "[i]n my opinion, having regard to very substantial risk factors and the considerably [sic] difficulties associated with recovering insurance proceeds, the settlement achieved is a very good result for the class members."

The claims process has begun. Former students of Sheila Morrison Schools may complete a claims form seeking compensation from the settlement funds. Former students should send their claims to the claims administrator, Crawford Class Action Services, by no later than June 11, 2013.

SOURCE: Koskie Minsky LLP

For further information on the settlement, a copy of Justice Perell's reasons for decision and for details on how former students can claim compensation, visit www.kmlaw.ca/morrisonschool or contact Koskie Minsky LLP at 1-866-777-6339 or at [email protected].

Visit www.kmlaw.ca for further information on Koskie Minsky LLP.