Fees, Retainers and Billing Policy

Purpose

Clients should know what legal help will cost before it starts. This policy explains how NEO sets and charges fees, as the Law Society of Ontario's Paralegal Rules of Conduct require.

Who it applies to

Every licensee and employee who quotes, records or bills fees.

Our policy

1. Fair and reasonable fees, disclosed in advance. Our fees are set out before work begins. Most services have a fixed fee published on our Services page.
2. A written retainer. Every matter has a written retainer agreement that says what we will do, what we won't, the fee, how it is paid, and how the retainer can end.
3. Changes in scope. If a matter needs work outside the retainer, we explain why and what it will cost, and get the client's agreement before doing it.
4. Contingency fees. Where a contingency fee is offered, the agreement is in writing in the form the Law Society requires, and explains how the fee is calculated.
5. Clear invoices. Invoices show our fee, HST and each disbursement separately, and any money from trust applied to them.
6. Disbursements at cost. Court and tribunal fees and other costs paid to others are charged at what they cost us.
7. Money in advance. A retainer paid in advance is held in trust under our Trust Accounting and Client Money Policy until it is earned.
8. Interest. We charge interest on unpaid accounts only if the client agreed to it in writing.
9. Referral fees. Any referral fee would be disclosed to the client and would need the client's written consent, as the rules require.

Questions about an account

If a client questions an invoice, the principal reviews it and responds in writing. A client who is still not satisfied can use our Client Complaints Policy.

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.