Tag: Oakville Lawyer

CIVIL LITIGATION – STRESS AND THE CLIENT

CIVIL-LITIGATION – STRESS AND THE CLIENT

I’ve been practising civil litigation for more then a decade. I can say that emotional stress is a significant factor when it comes to people involved in a lawsuit. This stress is not exclusive to only the parties. It can also be stressful for the civil litigation lawyer. In another blog post I will discuss civil litigation – stress and the lawyer.

A LAWSUIT SHOULD BE THE LAST RESORT

For this reason, when new litigation clients come in to talk about starting a lawsuit, I will in fact do my best to talk them out of it!

People find this amusing. However, for me its not about making more money it’s about finding a result for my clients that is worthwhile.

There is nothing worthwhile about suing for a $20,000 unpaid loan, waiting two to four years to get to a trial and having paid your litigation lawyer $5000 in the process. Not to mention the incredible emotional toll that trial preparation and trial attendance takes on an individual.

This is why a lawsuit should be the last option.

Also, feel free to browse my article, Should I sue? 

STRESS

The time, costs, and uncertainty are just some of the reasons why litigation clients end up feeling stressful. A good lawyer can alleviate some of that stress by providing frequent updates, recommendations, options and sound legal advice.

At my law office I understand how difficult it is to be involved in a lawsuit. Many clients are afraid to even speak to their own lawyer because of what their lawyer will charge them!

CIVIL LITIGATION LAWYER NEAR ME

If you are trying to locate a civil litigation lawyer near you contact my office.

I provide legal services in Burlington, Milton, Hamilton and Oakville.

My address is 901 Guelph Line, Burlington.
You can also call or text at 416-505-4901 OR call Toll Free: 1 (800) 939-9211

What should I know about a Will in Ontario?

What should I know about a Will in Ontario?

Below is a great informational video by the Law Society of Upper Canada about Wills in Ontario and the role of the Wills and Estates Lawyer.

The video is entitled Your Law: Wills and Estates

If you have additional questions about Wills and Estates and you live in Burlington, Oakville, Milton or Hamilton then contact my law office in Burlington.

I need to contact a Wills Lawyer in Burlington

Feel free to text or call 416-505-4901 or dial toll free: 1-800-939-9211

My office is located at 901 Guelph Line, Burlington and is right next to the QEW and parking is free.

How do I find a lawyer?

LOOKING FOR A LOCAL LAWYER

Despite, all the resources out there, people still struggle with finding a lawyer. Thankfully, Burlington and Oakville residents don’t have to travel far to find an experienced lawyer.

Feel free to browse some of my other blog entries regarding this subject:

How to find a lawyer?

Referrals from family and friends continue to be the preferred choice in selecting a lawyer. Then of course there is the internet. You will find today that there are many lawyers providing a wide array of legal services.

Research the lawyer and ask questions. Also, find out whether they are truly local. Many law firms in Toronto advertise they are local in order to show up in search engine results but in fact are not local. Having a local lawyer will reduce stress, time and expenses associated with traveling. For example, consider the cost of parking in Toronto just to attend a legal consultation.

Ensure your lawyer has experience. Again, with the overwhelming number of choices out there it can be hard to determine what makes one lawyer better versus another.

Finally, ensure the lawyer understands your needs and can work within your financial budget.

If you are looking for a criminal lawyer in Burlington or a civil lawyer call or text 416-505-4901.

Feel free to call toll free: 1-800-939-9211

I am located at 901 Guelph Line in Burlington.

What is Independent Legal Advice?

What is Independent Legal Advice?

Independent legal advice is a onetime meeting with a lawyer to review certain documents. Common documents that require independent legal advice might be a separation agreement or refinancing documents or a severance package.

WHAT IS A SEPARATION AGREEMENT?

Independent Legal Advice

What is Independent Legal Advice

Often, the party that has drafted the document will request that the other side who is unrepresented meet with a lawyer to obtain legal advice. For the represented party this is peace of mind that the unrepresented party understands the terms of the agreement.

Often these agreements will require the signature of the lawyer who provided the independent legal advice.

Most lawyers charge a onetime flat fee depending on the nature of the agreement. Obtaining legal advice in regards to a contract is a great way to protect and understand your rights if you are the unrepresented party. Similarly, independent legal advice provides peace of mind to the represented party.

If you require independent legal advice in Halton, Burlington, Oakville or Milton please give me a call.
I am a local lawyer in Burlington.

My address is 901 Guelph Line, Burlington.
You can also call or text at 416-505-4901 OR call Toll Free:  (800) 939-9211

How should I select a Mediator?

Lawyers as Mediators. Why we are better. 

I am a lawyer in Halton with over a decade of experience with mediation and alternative dispute resolution.

Always select a lawyer for mediation. My opinion on this is biased of course. An experienced lawyer will be able to provide great insight to all the parties about not only the benefits of mediation but also the legal risk and liability with proceeding to a trial.

A lawyer with courtroom experience can convey to parties in a mediation about the consequences of a trial, whether a judge or jury will accept one version over another and how credibility is assessed.

While there are many types of mediators out there, only an experienced lawyer with real life mediation experience can discuss possible outcomes in the courtroom.

If you would like to find out more about mediation for your potential or pending legal case then please call my office. I provide cost effective mediation services with a view to your budget.

Call toll free: (800) 939-9211

Or if you are local dial: 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario

What should I know about my Will if I am getting remarried?

Your Will and Remarriage

The hit series Golden Girls ended when Dorothy Zbornak, after years of unsuccessful relationships was swept off her feet by a dashing man named, Lucas Hollingsworth. Lucas played by the late Leslie Neilson and Dorothy played by Bea Arthur. Two legendary actors.

Dorothy and Lucas wed, thus causing Dorothy to move away with Lucas. What if, Dorothy lived in Ontario and had a Will prior to marrying Lucas?

Dorothy had children from a previous marriage and an ex husband, Stan Zbornak. If Dorothy had a Last Will and Testament it would be revoked on her marriage to Lucas. Shortly, after if Dorothy died without a Will her passing would be intestate. Therefore, according to Ontario law, Lucas would stand to inherit the first $200,000 of her estate with the bulk distributed amongst her two children Michael and Kate.

Technology and healthcare are causing people to live longer. Therefore, the scenario between Dorothy and Lucas is not all that uncommon. A Will being revoked on marriage leaves the door open for exploitation. Particularly, if the testator can be emotionally lured or intimidated. However, in many cases it seems the testator is actually wooed by the new partner.

Dorothy was so smitten by Lucas, she would have done anything.

It would be wise for those looking to get remarried to consult a Wills and Estates Lawyer. Preventive measures should be implemented to protect the testator and his or her estate from harm.

It would be wise to:

  1. Plan effectively and consult with a Wills and Estates Lawyer;
  2. Weigh your options with respect to title and ownership with your new spouse;
  3. Consult with a financial planer;
  4. Consider your options with your beneficiaries.

The above can be effective in reducing further estate litigation. However, a serious issue is whether or not the testator particularly if they are older have the legal capacity to enter into the marriage.

I will discuss that in another blog entry.

If you would like to speak with a Wills and Estates Lawyer in Burlington then please call my office. I also provide legal services in Halton, Hamilton and Milton.

PH: 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario

What is Mediation?

What are the benefits of Mediation?

I am a lawyer in Burlington, Ontario and I am pleased to provide mediation services to Halton Region.

I’ve blogged about common issues and or questions such as, what you should consider when borrowing or loaning money to a friend or how court should always be the last resort.

In this entry, I would like to discuss the benefits of mediation.

Mediation in many civil court cases is mandatory. Mediation is often mandatory with many tribunals as well such as, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal and the Ontario Labour Relations Board.

Many legal cases whether being complex or simple often settle through mediation. Mediation is a great way to reduce legal costs, time and emotional stress.

I provide cost effective mediation services.

If you would like to know how mediation can be used to settle your dispute. Then please call my office.

PH: 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario

What is a Discovery?

Examination for Discovery

In a civil lawsuit a Discovery is a mandatory process for cases over $100,000. However, Discovery is optional for cases under $100,000.

Prior to a lawsuit parties will often have had some interaction(s) with each other. Whether its over a breach of contract, a car accident or a wills and estate dispute the parties would have known each other through negotiations, emails and or meetings.

However, once civil litigation starts the parties would likely have only communicated through their lawyers. Therefore, Discovery is an opportunity to hear the parties evidence.

How long will the Discovery be?

Civil lawyers will schedule Discovery of all parties. The duration of the Discovery can really depend on the subject matter and complexity of the lawsuit. It an also depend on the individuals themselves and at times even the lawyers.

An experienced lawyer will prepare their client thoroughly, with what to expect and how to respond.

Discovery does not end the lawsuit. Nor does it take place in a courtroom. Subsequently, the process after a Discovery can take many months. Finally, in some situations there can be additional Discoveries of the same parties.

If you are looking for a civil litigation lawyer in Burlington or Oakville call today.

PH: 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario

Why do I need a Will?

I don't have a lot of assets do I still need a Will?

 

People ask why they need a Will. It's recommend that individuals consult with an experienced Wills and Estates Lawyer. 

Often, people are afraid of thinking about a Will, and that’s natural. Thinking of our own mortality is a difficult concept. To imagine a world in where we will no longer be here and that life continues on without us. However, an improperly drafted Will or lack thereof, can result in serious issues for any surviving dependents and loved ones. You don’t need to look further then estates courts to understand the catastrophic implications of an improperly drafted Will or no Will at all.

A properly drafted Will can assist with financial and tax planning. It can also provide guidance for any potential issues related to health and sickness.

A properly drafted Will can assist in the distribution of an individuals’ estate. It can also ensure that your loved ones are taken care. You also have the ability to establish a legal trust for your loved ones.

One of the most significant reasons to have a properly drafted Will is to avoid escheat. The concept of escheat is a legal doctrine that could result in your property becoming the property of the state.

Finally, a properly drafted Will can also assist if an individual would like to make any special bequests. In other words, specifically providing for a particular item or monetary contribution.

In any event, if you’re afraid to think of your own mortality then be equally afraid to think of what could happen to your estate and loved ones if you were to pass without a Will.

If you need a Wills Lawyer in Burlington or Halton region. Then give me a call.

PH: 416-505-4901

Address: 901 Guelph Line, Burlington, Ontario.