What Experience Does Your Law Firm Have?
We are a full-service law firm providing legal services in the areas of criminal litigation, real estate, family, wills and estates, landlord-tenant, civil, traffic tickets, impaired driving and both administrative and municipal matters. We are committed to bettering the lives of those we represent by providing efficient, cost-effective, and quality legal services. Through dedication, experience and skill our team of lawyers and support staff strive to help you first understand, and then make those important decisions that bring peace of mind when dealing with the law.
What Are Your Lawyers’ Fees Based On?
Lawyers’ fees are mostly based on experience and time spent to resolve your matter. There are also other factors that come into play, such as the importance of issues, the amount involved, the complexity of the proceeding, and the results achieved. We accept the following methods of payment: cash, e-transfers, money orders, and bank drafts. We believe in providing quality legal service by completing tasks in manageable steps in order to adjust with your schedule and work with your budget.
Why Should I Spend Money Hiring A Criminal Lawyer – Can’t I Just Represent Myself?
There’s an old saying that goes – “The man who represents himself in court has a fool for a client”. That saying has never been more true than today. Canada’s criminal law has rapidly become a very complex mix of statutes, common law and precedent. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms has dramatically improved the rights of accused persons but also tremendously complicated what would have otherwise been a simple trial. Few people would ever consider saving a few dollars by performing life-saving surgery on themselves. Don’t risk your legal health – your job, your family, and your liberty – by trying to defend your own criminal case.
What Does A Real Estate Lawyer Do?
If you are planning to purchase real estate, you may be familiar with the fact that a lawyer is required in such a transaction. Whether it is your first or one of many– there still may be confusion about a real estate lawyer does.
Buying
If you are purchasing real estate, your lawyer may:
- Arrange & view title search;
- Ensure conditions are satisfied;
- Deal with lender & handle funds;
- Conduct business with seller’s lawyer;
- Counsel & defer to you: the client.
Selling
If you are selling real estate, your lawyer may:
- Obtain & review parcel info;
- Receive & respond to requisitions;
- Acquire funds from buyers for encumbrances or mortgage;
- Conduct business with buyer’s lawyer;
- Counsel & defer to you: the client
At What Point In The Process Do I Contact A Real Estate Lawyer?
For both buyers and sellers, we recommend contact a real estate lawyer as soon you’re ready to sign an offer to purchase. This is a legal document that you’ll want a lawyer to review so you understand the implications. A lawyer can explain this contract to you in plain english so you’re familiar with the legal jargon. You’ll also need the help of your real estate lawyer when conditions are met and you’re ready to close.
What Should I Look For In A Real Estate Lawyer?
Here’s a few tips to keep in mind when searching for your real estate lawyer
- They specialize in real estate law
- Competitive and transparent rates
- Experience with the type of property you’re looking to purchase
- They know the area you’re planning to buy or sell in
How Much Does A Real Estate Lawyer Cost?
The costs can vary depending on how your lawyer charges ( hourly or flat rate fees ). There may also be additional disbursements they might incur or pay for on your behalf. Some additional fees that may apply include:
- Title insurance
- Fire insurance fee
- Mortgage acquisition fees
- Adjustments for taxes or interest depending on your purchase timing
- GST for a new home purchase
Law Point offers flat rate pricing plus disbursements for our clients
What Is The Difference Between Legal Fees & Disbursements?
Disbursements are basically the expenses incurred by your real estate lawyer from working with you. They may pay for these expenses on your behalf ahead of time like faxing, photocopying, carrier fees, or things like title searches. The legal fees are often a flat rate our hourly fee that the lawyer charges for their time.
What Is The Difference Between Title Registration & Title Insurance?
The title registration is essentially changing the title of the home from the seller’s name to yours. However, title insurance is designed to protect you from liability should an undetected title defect be found. If, for example, there is a violation of the municipal zoning bylaws, an existing work order, or outstanding property taxes this could affect your title. Both title insurance fees and registration fees are paid for when you close.