Embracing innovation: Nonlawyers should be allowed to own Ontario law firms
Alternative business structures for law firms were researched and debated back in 2014. Many lawyers were advocating to reform the current structural limitations of law firm ownership. Currently, law firms in Ontario can only be owned 100 per cent by licensed lawyers, but there was hope that the law society of Ontario (LSO) would provide […]
Revisiting the Ontario bar exam
The barrister and solicitor examinations in Ontario are ripe for reform. With the continuous influx and new generation of law students, I have found that the current examinations are not properly testing the competency levels of incoming students.been lawyers for some time looking for a career change. The current exam structure rewards groups of students […]
Working capital not for the faint of heart
In my work as a mergers and acquisitions lawyer, I have noticed there is a concept that is consistently argued about at every stage of negotiations including after a transaction closes — the concept of “working capital” in business transactions. The trouble with the term is its malleability in definitions: it is an accounting term, […]
The Necessity of Termination Clauses in Employment Contracts
In an ever-evolving business landscape, independent contractor and fixed-term employment contracts have gained popularity. These agreements provide flexibility, promote efficiency, and cater to a variety of organizational needs. However, the recent ruling from the Ontario Court of Appeal [2023 ONCA 413] underscores the importance of incorporating termination clauses in these contracts. The Rise of Independent […]
Defamation Alternative: The Tort of ‘False Light’
In the realm of personal injury law, defamation is typically the go-to cause of action when an individual believes their reputation has been wrongfully harmed by false statements. However, the legal system provides an alternative in cases where the strict 6-month notice period for libel is missed: the tort of publicity placing the plaintiff in […]
Consequences of Failing to Close on a Real Estate APS
With the recent rise in interest rates, many buyers are finding themselves in the precarious position of failing to close on their real estate Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS). An APS is a binding legal contract between the buyer and seller of a property. If either party fails to fulfill their obligations outlined in […]
Salary Realities and Value Propositions for Lawyers
Much has been written about the influx of articling students and lack of requisite positions to fill, and solutions to assist such students with their placements and licensing. The bigger issue that I am seeing plaguing the legal labour market is related to the lack of education of lawyers relating to their salary expectations and […]
Understanding the Timeframe for Asserting Construction Liens
In the fast-paced world of construction, meeting deadlines is crucial to maintaining smooth operations. However, one set of deadlines that often falls under the radar, with potentially severe consequences, relates to construction liens. These legal claims are a key tool for parties seeking payment for their work, but they come with strict timeframes that, if […]
Limitation Periods: General Guidelines and Claim Discovery
Navigating the complexities of limitation periods can be challenging, especially as they vary based on the nature of the claim. Understanding the concept of ‘discovery’ is equally critical, as it directly influences when the limitation period begins. Let’s explore these topics in more detail. Understanding Limitation Periods Limitation periods are set timeframes within which legal […]
Seven Ways Technology is Revolutionizing Legal Practice
In the ever-evolving landscape of legal practice, technology has become a catalyst for change. This blog explores seven transformative ways in which technology is revolutionizing the field of law, from the digitization of documents to the rise of legal tech startups. Join us as we delve into the innovative advancements reshaping the legal industry and […]