Frequently Asked Questions
OUR FIRM
1. What is unique about Laws & Beyond?
We treat all our clients like we treat our family and friends. At all times, we are fair and understanding. Our goal is to reduce our clients' stress and be our clients strategic partners. Our mission is to serve our clients to the very best of our abilities.
During our initial consult, we carefully analyze the facts of each case and understand the “big picture”. We then discuss your options, assess the long-term impacts of each option, and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your family.
We apply our knowledge beyond the principles of the law. We customize our approach to your case according to your wishes, the overall amount of the claim, understanding of the opposing party’s position, and in consultation with you at every step.
2. Do I need to attend your office for initial consultations?
Our initial consultations are usually conducted mostly in person. You are making a significant decision by hiring an attorney, and a personal meeting is a vital part of the process in determining whether our firm (or any firm) is the perfect fit for you.
Further, this way it is easier to review and discuss relevant documents.
3. Do you charge for initial consultations?
We offer free 30-minute introductory consultations. This should give us sufficient time to analyze your case and provide you with solutions, and for you to decide whether our firm is a good fit for your requirements.
4. How much are your fees?
Every case is unique. For example, the fees for a divorce, is determined by the complexity of the case, the process you choose, and your willingness to reach agreements. However, we use an incremental replenishment system that allows you to pay lower retainer amounts over time. Real estate matters, on the other hand, are frequently charged on a flat fee basis. For greater details regarding our legal fees see: Legal Fees
5. Are my conversations with you and your staff confidential?
Your communications with us as a client, or even as a potential client, are totally confidential. Because the solicitor-client privilege applies to both lawyers and staff, you should feel free to share information with any of our employees. However, we may be obligated to report some information to authorities in some limited circumstances, such as to prevent future criminal conduct.
6. What is a retainer agreement?
When you retain a lawyer, you are often asked to sign a retainer agreement. A retainer agreement is a contract between you and your lawyer that establishes your working relationship.
The following are common terms included in a formal retainer agreement:
- The scope of the services that your lawyer will provide.
- The retainer amount*, or the payment you must make to secure your counsel’s legal services.
- What you will be charged by the lawyer for their services. You may be charged a flat fee or an hourly cost by the lawyer.
- Costs for disbursements, such as court filing fees, and expenses, such as photocopying costs, will also be included in the agreement.
- How you will communicate with your barrister or solicitor.
- If you do not pay your statement of account on time, you will be charged interest.
- How to end your legal contract with your lawyer.
*The retainer is a deposit for future legal fees and expenses incurred on your behalf by the lawyer. When your lawyer completes a work for you, he or she will send you a bill, which you will pay with the retainer money. The lawyer gets compensated once they perform a task for you. If the retainer fee runs out, the lawyer will ask for an additional retainer before continuing to work on your case.
LEGAL AID
7. Do you accept legal aid certificates?
Yes, we accept legal aid certificates. Low income clients may be eligible to receive legal aid assistance. For further information review:
https://www.legalaid.ab.ca/resources/#app-needs
8. What areas of law do you accept legal aid certificates for?
We accept legal aid certificates for all family and summary criminal offenses.
OTHER QUESTIONS
9. How can I get free legal advice in Calgary?
Are you looking for free legal advice? If you have a pressing legal issue, call Laws & Beyond, at 403-300-LAWS, today, to discuss the facts of your case with our experienced lawyer. We provide 30 minutes-free consultation-with no obligations. We provide consultation regarding all legal issues, including employment law, family law, immigration law, wills and estate, and more. We are willing to listen to your concerns, and explain the options available to you during the free half an hour consult.
During your initial meeting with our lawyers, you will tell the lawyer your situation and the lawyer will let you know if she or he can represent you. This will also be your chance to sign the retainer agreement with the lawyer.
In additional, low income Albertans can also get free legal advice or at reduced legal fees from:
2) Dial-A-Lawyer through Calgary Legal Guidance at 1-800-332-1091
10. What is the difference between an appeal and application to vary an order?
Application to Vary an Order: If you have a court order that you wish to change, you will file an application to vary the order. For a variation application, you must be able to show that there has been a material change in circumstances.
We at Laws & Beyond, often handle variation applications to change the terms of orders relating to children (parenting arrangements or support), or spousal support. The change in circumstances, often include job loss that may affect child support, or a change in the children’s living arrangements.
As with any court application, it is strongly recommended that you get legal advice when you make this application.
Appeal:
If you disagree with the judge's decision of a trial, granted by the court, then you can file an “appeal.” An appeal is a request to have a higher court change or reverse a judgment of a lower court.
When you file an appeal, the decision is reviewed by the higher court. The appeals court will look at the evidence that was presented to the trial court to decide whether some legal error was made.
However, an appeal doesn’t allow you to re-do your trial. You will not be able to submit new evidence. The appeals judge will only look at what you submitted to the trial judge and you must speak about the errors in law or fact that you are alleging the judge made when initially hearing your case. The appeals court can: set aside, confirm, or modify the trial court’s judgment and could even order a new trial.
Note: If you wish to appeal a judge’s order, then must file for appeal by a certain deadline. Most appeals are required to be filed within 30 days of the decision renders; however, you must immediately contact a lawyer to confirm the deadlines and file for an appeal.
11. What if i am not happy with the court’s decision? Can I appeal it?
If you are not satisfied with a decision of the judge, it is recommended that you consult with a lawyer immediately about your rights and the remedies available to you. Your lawyer can provide, further information with respect to filing an application for leave (permission) to appeal and all other relevant information.
12. What do I need to bring with me for my first meeting with the lawyer?
For your initial meeting with your lawyer you should bring the following:
- Basic Information about you: Your name, address, occupation and your identity information
- Name of the opposing party and relevant parties, this is so that a lawyer can perform conflict searches to confirm that the law firm has not been contacted by your former spouse, former employer or the party you may have a potential claim against.
- A list of questions to ask
- All relevant facts in chronological order
- All relevant documents: You should bring all relevant documents such as any agreements, court documents, or any other evidence that may be relevant in your case.
As each case is different, it is best to confirm with your lawyer, what you should bring to your first meeting. Call us today at 403-300-LAWS.
