Civility and Professional Conduct Policy

Purpose

Advocacy can be firm without being rude or unfair. This policy sets the standard of conduct for everyone at NEO in dealings with courts, tribunals, other representatives, witnesses, and the people on the other side of our clients' matters.

Our policy

1. Honesty with courts and tribunals. We never knowingly mislead a court or tribunal, misstate the law or the facts, or offer evidence we know is false.
2. Courtesy. We are courteous and civil to everyone, in person, in writing and online, including when a matter is contentious.
3. Good faith. We don't use procedure to harass or delay, and we don't make allegations we can't support.
4. Fair dealing with other representatives. We keep our word, answer correspondence promptly, agree reasonable requests that don't harm our client, and don't take advantage of a slip or oversight.
5. Witnesses. We treat witnesses with respect, and never encourage anyone to give false or misleading evidence.
6. Punctuality and preparation. We are on time and prepared for hearings, conferences and meetings.

When others are uncivil

We stay professional, document the conduct, and raise serious concerns through proper channels rather than responding in kind.

Review

This policy is reviewed at least once a year, and whenever the Law Society's By-Laws or rules change. The principal approves every change.

Questions

Email info@neolegalservices.com, call 647-200-3526 or toll-free 888-519-2435, or write to us at Unit 236, 1099 Kingston Road, Pickering, Ontario L1V 1B5.