Each project has a base flat fee that covers the standard scope. If your matter goes beyond that (e.g., longer contracts, complex negotiations, or multiple parties), additional time is billed hourly at $375..

Absolutely. Many clients begin with a one-off project, then upgrade to Back Pocket once they realize how much easier it is to have me in their corner every month. Remember, spots for Back Pocket are limited, so once they are filled, there will be a waiting list.

Most incorporations and contract reviews are turned around in 5–10 business days.

Bigger projects like reorganizations or shareholder agreements can take longer, depending on complexity.

Yes. For reorganizations and estate planning, I work directly with your accountant to ensure everything aligns with tax strategy.

A trust account is a special type of bank account that lawyers can maintain. It’s not my personal or business account — it’s a regulated account overseen by the Law Society of Ontario.

When I ask you for a trust deposit, it means I’m holding funds on your behalf until they’re needed for your legal work or to pay specific disbursements (like government filing fees). Those funds don’t belong to me until they’re earned.

Think of it as a safe, separate account that ensures your money is protected and only used for the purpose we’ve agreed on. Once the work is done (or the filing is made), I transfer the appropriate amount from trust into my general account and give you a clear statement of how it was applied.

A trust account protects you. It guarantees transparency and that your funds are only used for your legal matter.

It comes down to the type of work and how payment is structured.

For many flat-fee plus projects (like incorporations, wills, or shareholder agreements), I request a trust deposit before starting. Those funds are placed in my regulated trust account and applied against your invoice once the work is completed. This ensures your project is secured in my schedule and guarantees clarity for both of us.

For smaller items or ongoing services, I may simply invoice you after the work is done. In those cases, there’s no need for a trust deposit up front.

Trust deposit = payment secured up front, held safely in a regulated account, and applied when work is done.

Invoice = billed after completion.

Both methods are normal, and which one applies depends on the scope of work and the level of commitment needed to begin.

Once you decide to move forward, I make sure everything is clear and professional before we begin:

1. Engagement Letter — You’ll receive a written agreement outlining the project scope, the flat-fee plus structure, and what’s included. If there’s any possibility of extra time beyond the flat fee, that’s flagged up front.

2. Advance Invoice / Trust Deposit — For most projects, I’ll issue an invoice or request a trust deposit before starting work. This secures your matter in my schedule and ensures funds are safely held until applied to your final bill.

3. Conflict Check — Behind the scenes, I confirm there are no conflicts of interest so I can act for you compliantly.

4. Kickoff & Information Gathering — I’ll provide a short intake checklist or request the documents I need to complete your project (for example, ID, corporate records, or existing contracts).

5. Work Begins — Once everything is signed, paid, and documents are in, I complete your project within the agreed timeline. If something outside of scope comes up, I’ll confirm with you before adding any hourly billing.