RESOURCES

Back in the old days, most families had what they called “their lawyer”. That’s right. We called them the family lawyer. Not because they practiced family law (although some did I’m sure), but because of the relationship each family had with their lawyer. It’s almost like the lawyer and/or law firm were passed down the family lineage from generation to generation. Parents with newborn babies would retain a lawyer to close the purchase of their first family home. The same lawyer would help the parents upsize and downsize their home as life circumstances changed. And those same newborn babies would one day become adults and purchase their first homes. Which lawyer would they use? Their family’s lawyer, of course. It was a beautiful age where people retained a lawyer seemingly for life. There was certainty, trust, respect and transactions completed. What a glorious time it was!

Fast-forward, in today’s age of technology, apps and chatbots, for the next generation there isn’t always the sense of pride and loyalty in having “their” lawyer working and advocating for them. And this can go across the board, for all professionals. I have seen some people change accountants and mortgage brokers as often as some people change their shirts and socks. The name of the game is not to find the cheapest professional in the moment. Rather, it’s to find, retain and build a long-term relationship with a professional that knows you. One that you trust and has seen you through life’s highs and lows. None are more important than your lawyer. Whether you are buying a home, refinancing your mortgage or about to start your own business, the first call should be to your lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer in place already, speak to your most trusted sources. Family, friends and colleagues is a great place to turn. When people you love and connect with had good experiences, that should be an excellent indication that you are speaking to the right professional.

Here’s a mind-blowing idea: rather than texting or just emailing, schedule an actual call with the lawyer you are considering retaining. A telephone call or even a video chat. Ask them the questions on your mind. See how quickly they respond back to your inquiry and meet me with you. Did you feel comfortable with them? Are you confident about the level of experience and knowledge the displayed? Do you feel that they will be able to work with you in achieving the results you desire? And most of all, do you enjoy communicating with them? I always say that if we do not feel comfortable communicating with someone, we won’t want to work with them.

Would you like to reduce your life stress and increase happiness? Of course, we all do! Having your go-to professionals in all aspects of your existence will make your life easier. Sometimes happy events can take place in life like buying a cottage property! Other times, more stressful events can come up like receiving an angry letter from a commercial landlord as part of your lease. To help deal with the ups and downs of life, your first call should be to YOUR lawyer. And they will hopefully be able to assist you to achieve the results you want, or direct you to the right professionals who can. The best results are achieved through a team effort. Make sure the right lawyer is on your team going forward! Now imagine that same lawyer helping your children in the future. Perhaps we can bring back the idea of having the family’s lawyer in place back in style 😊

When you are ready to complete a real estate transaction, incorporate a company, buy/sell a business, complete a will, please reach out to Kormans LLP anytime by contacting us at info@kormans.ca We would be pleased to connect you with one of our lawyers to go over your transaction and work with you to get started!

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Jonathan A. Hacohen is a Partner at Kormans LLP. His practice areas include Real Estate & Corporate Law, as well as Wills/Estates law. You can reach Jonathan at jhacohen@kormans.ca.

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