Frequently Asked Questions

We have organized a list of the most common questions people have about our law firm and the practice of law.

1. Do I need to hire a lawyer?
You may not need a lawyer. However, you may wish to consult with one of our lawyers to determine whether or not your particular situation requires the services of a lawyer.

2. Does it cost anything for an initial consultation about my case?
Our firm offers one free half-hour consultation with respect to your case.

3. How do you charge for your services?
The method of calculating fees may vary with each lawyer, and with different types of legal services. Here are the three most common methods:

• Hourly Rate: This is the most common method of fee assessment in our office. Lawyers can rarely predict the amount of time required when a case begins. Our lawyers will keep a record of the time spent on the case and charge you an agreed upon hourly rate.
• Fixed Fee: If you hire one of our lawyers to provide a routine service such as a sale or purchase of a home or the incorporation of a company, our lawyers may be able to quote a flat fee regardless of the amount of work involved.
• Contingency Fee: This form of billing is rarely used by our office. Under this form of billing our lawyers are paid a percentage of what you receive based upon the success achieved in the proceeding.

Regardless of what fee structure your lawyer uses to bill you, clients are responsible for the payment of out-of-pocket expenses such as court charges, postage, long distance charges, photocopying and the like, in addition to the fees charged by the lawyers.

4. How much will I be charged for my case?
In deciding what fee, rate, or percentage to charge, our lawyers take into account the following factors:

• The extent and character of the services to be rendered
• The labour, time, and trouble involved
• The character and importance of the matter
• The amount of money, or value of property involved
• The results achieved

5. What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept Interac, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, personal and certified cheque, and cash.

6. I don't live in Saskatoon, can you still represent me?
Yes. We represent people throughout Saskatchewan and Canada.

7. How far will you travel to make a Court appearance?
We travel throughout Saskatchewan and to other Provinces when required.

8. Can you guarantee the outcome of my case?
No. A lawyer cannot guarantee the outcome of your case. Your case is dependent upon a number of factors, many of which are outside the control of both you and your lawyer.

9. How do you keep me informed about the progress of my case?
Our lawyers make every effort to keep our clients informed with respect to the progress of their case. To effect that, our lawyers will be in touch with you in writing, by telephone or in person to advise you with respect to what is occurring with your case from time to time.

10. Are the details of my case always kept private, just between me and my lawyer?
Yes. Your lawyer is not allowed to discuss your case with anyone outside the firm who you have not authorized the lawyer to speak to.

11. What can I do if I need a lawyer but I can't afford one?
There are some options if you can't afford a lawyer. You can consider Small Claims Court as an option if you meet the criteria. You may be able to find general legal information at public libraries, stationery stores and other public services as well as the links provided in this website (click here for links page). You may be eligible for Legal Aid, and you can get further information from the Saskatchewan Legal Aid Commission (click here for the Legal Aid website).