Gifts and Hospitality Policy

Purpose

Gifts and hospitality can create a conflict of interest, or the appearance of one. This policy sets out what licensees, employees and contractors of NEO may give and accept.

Accepting gifts

1. Small tokens of thanks from a client after a matter, such as a card or a modest gift, may be accepted.
2. Nothing that could affect our judgment. We don't accept gifts, money, loans or favours from clients, the other side, suppliers or anyone else where it could affect, or appear to affect, our independence or advice.
3. No gifts from the other side of a client's matter, or from anyone seeking a decision from us.
4. Significant gifts from a client are declined, or, where the rules allow them to be accepted, only after the client has had the chance to get independent advice.
5. Wills and estates. We don't prepare or arrange documents under which we receive a benefit from a client.

Giving gifts

We don't give gifts or hospitality to anyone in order to obtain work or a decision, and never to a court or tribunal member or official.

Recording

Any gift beyond a token is recorded and reported to the principal.

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.