Tax & OtherLawyer referralBankruptcy and insolvency advice

Bankruptcy and insolvency (debtor legal advice)

Legal advice alongside a licensed insolvency trustee.

Timing depends on creditor action and court dates; the lawyer confirms it in writing before work starts. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral

What is included

  • Explains your legal options before or alongside a Licensed Insolvency Trustee
  • Reviews debts, secured claims and property at risk
  • Advises on creditor lawsuits, garnishments and disputes
  • Represents you in court on contested matters

What is not included

  • Government, court or registration fees and other disbursements
  • Accounting, appraisal or other independent reports
  • Work beyond the scope in the lawyer's written retainer

Who this service is for

  • Individuals with serious debt problems
  • Business owners who signed personally for business debts

Information to have ready

  1. 1A list of debts and creditors
  2. 2Loan agreements and anything you signed personally for a business debt
  3. 3Any court papers or garnishment notices
  4. 4Details of your property and income

How a referral works

  1. 1Tell us in a few words what the matter is about, and who else is involved, so we can check for a conflict of interest.
  2. 2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
  3. 3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
  4. 4You pay the lawyer's fee to the lawyer. Any referral fee comes out of it, is disclosed to you in writing, and never increases what you pay.

NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm, not a law firm. Every step of a referral, and your rights

Frequently asked questions

What does the lawyer charge?

Lawyers usually charge $300–$550/hr for this kind of work, by the hour. The lawyer quotes the actual rate and an estimate. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.

Who files a bankruptcy or consumer proposal?

A Licensed Insolvency Trustee files it. A lawyer can give independent legal advice on your options, property and disputes with creditors.

Does bankruptcy stop lawsuits?

Filing usually stays most creditor actions, but some debts and claims are treated differently. The lawyer can explain how it applies to you.

General information only, not legal advice. NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.

Important limitations

  • No outcome can be guaranteed
  • Deadlines keep running during a referral
  • The lawyer confirms the scope, fee and steps in a written retainer before starting
Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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