When should I contact a lawyer about buying a home?

As soon as you have an accepted offer, or before you sign it if it has unusual conditions. The earlier the file opens, the more time there is to find and fix title, mortgage or condominium issues before closing.

What happens on closing day?

Your lender sends the mortgage funds to my trust account, the balance goes to the seller’s lawyer, the transfer is registered electronically, and the keys are released once registration and payment are complete.

Can I sign my documents remotely?

Most documents can be signed by video meeting and electronic signature. Some lenders still require an original signature on paper. If yours does, you’ll be told at the start.

Do first-time buyers get a land transfer tax refund?

Ontario refunds up to $4,000 of land transfer tax to first-time buyers who qualify. That covers the full tax on a home up to about $368,000. The land transfer tax calculator on this site estimates both the tax and the refund.

Do I need a lawyer to add or remove someone from title?

Yes. In Ontario, transfers of land are registered electronically, and the registration has to be signed off by a lawyer. Land transfer tax may apply, and if there is a mortgage the lender usually has to consent.

How long does it take to get a will done?

Most wills are ready to sign within a few weeks of the first meeting, once the details are settled. If timing matters, for example before surgery or a trip, say so at the start.

What is the difference between a will and a power of attorney?

A will deals with what happens after you die. Powers of attorney name someone to make decisions for you while you are alive but unable to: one for property and finances, and one for personal care and health.

What are primary and secondary wills?

Business owners often sign two wills. The secondary will covers assets that do not need probate, such as shares of a private company, so their value is not included when Estate Administration Tax is calculated.

I've been named as an executor. Where do I start?

Start with the estate trustee checklist on this site, which covers the first 30 days. Then book a meeting and bring the will, the statement of death and whatever account statements you have.

What does probate cost in Ontario?

There is no Estate Administration Tax on an estate of $50,000 or less. Above that, the tax is $15 for every $1,000 (or part of $1,000) over $50,000. Legal fees are separate and depend on the size and complexity of the estate.

Do you act for clients outside London and Sarnia?

Yes. I act on files across Southwestern Ontario, and most of the work can be done by phone, video and electronic signature.

Who will I deal with on my file?

You’ll be told at the start which member of my team is handling your file and how to reach them. Files are reviewed on the way in, and I’m involved whenever a decision needs a lawyer.

Does contacting you make me a client?

No. You become a client once a conflict check is done and you have confirmed the terms of the retainer. Please don’t send confidential details before then.

Frequently asked questions

Real estate, wills and estates, and working with my office. If your question isn’t here, get in touch.

As soon as you have an accepted offer, or before you sign it if it has unusual conditions. The earlier the file opens, the more time there is to find and fix title, mortgage or condominium issues before closing.
Your lender sends the mortgage funds to my trust account, the balance goes to the seller’s lawyer, the transfer is registered electronically, and the keys are released once registration and payment are complete.
Most documents can be signed by video meeting and electronic signature. Some lenders still require an original signature on paper. If yours does, you’ll be told at the start.
Ontario refunds up to $4,000 of land transfer tax to first-time buyers who qualify. That covers the full tax on a home up to about $368,000. The land transfer tax calculator on this site estimates both the tax and the refund.
Yes. In Ontario, transfers of land are registered electronically, and the registration has to be signed off by a lawyer. Land transfer tax may apply, and if there is a mortgage the lender usually has to consent.
Most wills are ready to sign within a few weeks of the first meeting, once the details are settled. If timing matters, for example before surgery or a trip, say so at the start.
A will deals with what happens after you die. Powers of attorney name someone to make decisions for you while you are alive but unable to: one for property and finances, and one for personal care and health.
Business owners often sign two wills. The secondary will covers assets that do not need probate, such as shares of a private company, so their value is not included when Estate Administration Tax is calculated.
Start with the estate trustee checklist on this site, which covers the first 30 days. Then book a meeting and bring the will, the statement of death and whatever account statements you have.
There is no Estate Administration Tax on an estate of $50,000 or less. Above that, the tax is $15 for every $1,000 (or part of $1,000) over $50,000. Legal fees are separate and depend on the size and complexity of the estate.
Yes. I act on files across Southwestern Ontario, and most of the work can be done by phone, video and electronic signature.
You’ll be told at the start which member of my team is handling your file and how to reach them. Files are reviewed on the way in, and I’m involved whenever a decision needs a lawyer.
No. You become a client once a conflict check is done and you have confirmed the terms of the retainer. Please don’t send confidential details before then.

Frequently asked questions

Licensed in Ontario