Matrona Law

Choosing a Legal Representative

You may have heard the old saying that there are many fish in the sea (although, climate change is really impacting this).

What to look out for when choosing a legal representative: paralegal or lawyer?

1. Connectivity and Trust - this flows two ways. Do you trust the individual? Do you have confidence in that individual, and confidence that that individual will follow through (within reason)?

2. Can you afford that particular representative? Don't fool yourself; legal fees may add up because practices and procedures are time consuming, strategic insight and experience requires compensation. Don't fool yourself, or the rep into believing that you can afford the fees.

3. Do you know what you want to achieve out of your legal matter? Are you suing out of principle or because of pride? Are you suing because of a wrong that requires compensation in order for you to stay financially afloat? These questions will determine how you perceive the litigation ahead and how you instruct your counsel.

4. Do you and the rep communicate effectively?

5. You don't need to like your rep - but, it is better if you do. Do you? Can you?

6. Are you choosing a rep with lesser experience so that you can ply them, and instruct them to your whim? Lawyers and paralegals must follow the uniform Ethics rules as mandated by the Law Society of Ontario,the By-Laws therein, and the Law Society Act.

Finally:

Choosing a particular representative is largely a personal choice; there are many lawyers and paralegals. Each one has their own creativity and strategy for use in problem solving and negotiations; the Rules exist for all to follow; but, how experienced is the representative? Choose the best fit upon which ethics and trust are based. Your gut is your best instinct - even if it can't process cheese!

Motions: Superior Court of Justice (Ontario): 2 hour + motions are being booked for April 2023 as of today!