Frequently asked questions

Yes. Your first consultation is free. It is a chance to explain your situation, hear your options and decide whether you would like us to act for you.

Whichever is easier for you. We see clients at both offices, 11 Dawes Road in Brampton and 1620 Albion Road in Toronto (Etobicoke). Mobile services, after-hours and weekend appointments are also available.

English, Hindi, French and Gujarati. Krupa Shah is also a certified court interpreter.

It depends on the matter. Some work, such as many real estate closings, wills and notarizations, can be quoted up front; other matters are billed for the time spent. Either way, you get a clear estimate before any work begins.

No. A lawyer and client relationship starts only once we have confirmed that we can act for you (including a conflict check) and agreed on the terms. Please don't send confidential details through the website form before then.

Ideally before you sign an Agreement of Purchase and Sale, so conditions and dates can be reviewed. At the latest, as soon as your offer is accepted, so there is time for title searches, mortgage instructions and title insurance.

Usually two pieces of government identification (one with a photo), your home insurance confirmation, a void cheque for mortgage payments, and your closing funds by bank draft or wire. We will send you an exact list for your file.

Ontario charges land transfer tax on most purchases, and properties in Toronto also pay the Municipal Land Transfer Tax. Eligible first-time buyers can get a refund of part or all of it. We work out the amount and apply for any refund when we register your purchase.

Their estate is divided under a fixed formula in Ontario's Succession Law Reform Act, which may not match their wishes, and someone must apply to court to be appointed to administer the estate. A will lets you choose who inherits, who is in charge and who cares for minor children.

A power of attorney for property lets someone manage your finances and property; a power of attorney for personal care lets someone make health and care decisions if you can't. Most people should have both, along with their will.

A common Ontario planning tool: one will covers assets that need probate and a second covers assets that don't (for example, shares of a private company), which can reduce Estate Administration Tax. Whether it suits you depends on what you own.

Generally two years from the day you knew, or ought to have known, about the claim, under Ontario's Limitations Act, 2002. Some claims have shorter deadlines or exceptions, so get advice early.

Not before getting advice. Severance offers often provide only the minimums in the Employment Standards Act, 2000, while many employees are entitled to more. Once you sign a release, it is usually too late to ask for more.

The original document (and copies, if you need certified copies), plus valid government photo identification. If you are swearing an affidavit, don't sign it beforehand: you sign in front of us.