Do I need to make an appointment to discuss my legal issue?

Yes, you can call (250) 287-7755 or email us at tks [at] tkslaw [dot] com to set up an appointment with one of our lawyers. Initial consultations are normally done in person, although in certain circumstances for clients outside of Campbell River it may be possible to meet over the phone. The toll free phone number within B.C. is 1-800-224-7755

Why must I give photo identification? New rules require that all clients present two forms of identification when engaging legal counsel, so be prepared to present photo identification before your initial consultation.

When do I ask about costs?

Costs should be one of the first things you discuss with your lawyer. The cost may vary for matters of a routine nature to those considerably more complex. More complex matters usually require that the firm is retained and the costs of engaging the firm are discussed at this first meeting. Fee retainers will be required where appropriate. There are fixed fees for a number of services that have predictable cost and duration, while on other cases work is billed on an hourly basis. Fixed fees will be quoted in the initial consultation, and estimates will be provided for further services.  

Do I have to pay if unsuccessful?

Yes, with the exception of some personal injury cases where lawyers work on a contingency basis and the lawyer is paid a percentage only if successful.

What is a conflict of interest?

Because your lawyer must give complete loyalty to you and maintain your information as confidential, lawyers cannot act against current or former clients where there is any potential to compromise this duty or confidentiality. For this reason it is necessary for you to identify the person(s) or entity with which you are doing business or having a dispute.

Should I incorporate on my own, or is a lawyer necessary?

The online incorporation procedures now available are deceptively simple and frequently result in defective incorporations. The outcome is often greater cost than if the incorporation is done properly by a lawyer. These defects are frequently unnoticed until the corporation must complete a critical transaction, at which point there may be insufficient time to correct the mistakes to complete the transaction.

What is Collaborative Law?

Collaborative law is a method of solving legal problems, using lawyers, where all the participants agree not to bring a court application unless and until the collaborative law process has been terminated. With the help of the lawyers (and some times other professionals such as counsellors and accountants) the parties work together to find a fair resolution to their issues.

What is the difference between Mediation and Arbitration?

At Mediation no agreement will be reached without your consent and approval. The Mediator assists the parties to negotiate in good faith until a resolution acceptable to all is reached.

Arbitration is similar to a private court. The Arbitrator will receive evidence from both parties and will make a decision that is binding. That decision may or may not be acceptable to either of the parties. Because the parties are not usually in agreement, the results of an arbitration are often difficult to enforce and subject to an Appeal to the Courts by the unhappy party to overturn the result.

Should I draft my own will?

While it is possible for any individual to draft a valid will, this is one of the most important documents anyone will sign in their lifetime, thus it is very wise to have a lawyer trained in wills and estate law prepare your will for a reasonable fee.