Third-Party Payers Policy

Purpose

Sometimes a family member, an employer or a business pays for someone else's legal services. This policy explains how NEO handles that, so the client's independence and confidentiality are protected.

Our policy

1. We act for the client. Our duties are owed to the client, not to the person paying. We take instructions only from the client.
2. Confidentiality. We don't share information about the client's matter with the payer unless the client agrees, ideally in writing.
3. Informed consent. Before accepting payment from someone else, we explain this policy to the client and the payer, and confirm that the arrangement won't affect our advice.
4. No conflicts. If the payer's interests could conflict with the client's, we consider whether we can act under our Conflicts of Interest Policy.
5. Identification. Where the rules require, we identify the person or organization that pays us and record the payment, under our Client Identification and Verification Policy.
6. Money in trust. A payment in advance is held in trust under our Trust Accounting and Client Money Policy. Any refund is made as agreed in writing at the start, usually to the person who paid.

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.