Areas of Law
Ontario Small Claims Court limits increased to $50,000
As of October 1, 2025, the Small Claims Court claim limit increased to $50,000, up from $35,000 set in 2020 ($25,000 previously). The change is intended to provide the public with quicker and more affordable Court based dispute resolution for claims up to the new $50,000 limit. The government has also indicated that claims commenced… Read More »
Categories: Civil Litigation, Online OnlyNotice to the Real Estate Bar re iPro Realty Ltd. transactions
What are lawyers to do when closing a transaction that involves iPro Realty Ltd? The regulator, Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), closed the brokerage, iPro Realty Ltd. (iPro), effective August 19, 2025. iPro had 17 offices and 2,400 agents. There was a regulator approved sale of iPro’s assets to a new brokerage, iCloud Realty… Read More »
Categories: Online Only, Real EstateA real estate cautionary tale – Tribulations of tax check boxes
The client was buying a multi-million-dollar property, located geographically outside of the lawyer’s usual jurisdiction. Fully doable with province-wide Teraview access and today’s technology. The law office prepared the transfer and land transfer affidavit. The box indicating the transaction was subject to other taxes was checked. However, the lawyer practices in a jurisdiction where there… Read More »
Categories: Online Only, Real EstateIntellectual Property Law Claims: Key Insights and Practical Risk Management Tips
Working in IP law requires meticulous attention to detail and proactive management of deadlines, documentation, and communication. In Ontario, the average IP claim costs about $45,000, and some claims can arise as late as 14 years after the original work was performed. With around 45 claims reported to LAWPRO annually, it is vital for IP… Read More »
Categories: Intellectual Property, Online OnlyFamily Law in 2025: Managing risk and building your professional network (2025)
In this practical program attendees will learn to build a professional network to help reduce their malpractice risk. We will cover tips for avoiding the repudiation of settlements and contracts, making the most of in-person and online networking opportunities, effective client screening, and safely giving independent legal advice. Find out who to call when you… Read More »
Categories: CPD, FamilySeparated but Not Divorced: Key Considerations for Wills
Amendments to the Succession Law Reform Act in 2021 (specifically to section 17 and 43.1) mean that, as of January 1, 2025, spouses who have been living separately and apart due to a breakdown in marriage for three years will be treated the same as divorced spouses. In practical terms: Gifts left to the separated… Read More »
Categories: Online Only, Wills & EstatesNavigating NOSIs and PPSA: A practical approach for real estate lawyers
An expired or deemed expired Notice of Security Interest (NOSI) does not affect title; however, the underlying contractual and financial obligations remain outstanding and must be addressed by payout or assumption. Read below for tips on avoiding unsatisfied clients and finding information about claims a secured party may have against goods and fixtures registered against… Read More »
Categories: 2025 Feb - Emotional Contagion, Articles, Real EstateSix ways to protect your client’s property title
Identifying title risks, advising clients, and diligently documenting steps can save clients and lawyers from costly claims. Despite best efforts, issues may arise, and title insurance offers some protection for both clients and lawyers. Understanding the nuances of title insurance policies, including their coverage, exclusions, and how they interact with legal due diligence, is vital…. Read More »
Categories: 2025 Feb - Emotional Contagion, Articles, Real Estate, Title insurance, TitlePLUSToo quick on the buzzer: Default judgment and the potential consequences of engaging in sharp practice
Would-be lawyers learn the importance of professionalism and civility as outlined in the Law Society’s Rules of Professional Conduct and The Advocates’ Society Principles of Civility. However, in practice, a grey area can sometimes develop between fiercely advocating for a client and engaging in sharp practice. At LAWPRO, we’ve seen many claims relating to lawyers… Read More »
Categories: 2025 Feb - Emotional Contagion, Articles, Civil LitigationNavigating NOSIs and PPSA: A practical approach for lawyers
Real estate lawyers’ due diligence requirements have changed since the Ontario ban on filing a notice of security interest (NOSI) on financed or leased consumer goods/fixtures in Ontario. This article by LAWPRO’s Ray Leclair provides guidance on avoiding unsatisfied clients and understanding secured party claims against a seller’s goods and fixtures registered under the PPSA.
Categories: Online Only, Real Estate