Referrals to Other Professionals Policy

Purpose

Some matters, or parts of a matter, need a lawyer or another professional. This policy explains how NEO makes referrals in the client's interest.

When we refer

• When a matter, or part of it, is outside a paralegal's scope, such as most claims over $50,000, family law cases, real estate transactions, wills and serious criminal charges.
• When a matter needs knowledge or resources we don't have.
• When we can't act because of a conflict of interest.

How we refer

1. We tell the client honestly why a referral is needed, as early as possible.
2. We suggest suitable options where we can, such as a lawyer, a legal clinic or the Law Society's referral service, and the client chooses whom to hire.
3. With the client's consent, we share the information the new professional needs, and point out any deadline we know of.
4. If we continue to act on part of the matter, we agree in writing who is doing what.

Referral fees

We refer clients because it is in their interest, not for payment. Any referral fee would be paid or received only as the Paralegal Rules of Conduct allow: it must be fair and reasonable, disclosed to the client, and consented to by the client in writing. It never increases what the client pays.

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.