A Commitment to Excellence

Your Niagara Law Firm

Chown Cairns LLP is a full-service Niagara law firm based in St. Catharines. As one of Niagara’s largest and most esteemed law firms, we provide superior quality legal services to individuals, business organizations, institutions and municipal governments located in the Niagara Peninsula and beyond.

FAQ’s

How will my lawyer communicate with me?

Your lawyer and law firm staff will primarily communicate with you through email. However, urgent matters may require a phone call or an in-person meeting.

To ensure clarity, we always identify ourselves in every communication, so you know who you are interacting with. If you are unsure about the identity of the person you are speaking with, we recommend refraining from sharing any personal or sensitive information until you can verify their identity.

Is the information I tell my lawyer confidential?

Any information you provide to your lawyers regarding your case will be confidential. This includes in-person discussions, phone calls, and emails about the matter at hand.

If you aren’t sure of the information is protected under lawyer-client privilege, it’s advisable you confirm it before discussing the matter any further.

How will I be charged for services?

Legal services are commonly charged using one of three methods:

  • Hourly fees – This involves paying a pro-rated hourly fee for the time that lawyers and paralegals spend on your case.
  • Contingency fee – Also known as “No Win, No Fee,” it is a percentage deduction from the compensation you receive.
  • Fixed-fee – This is a flat rate for a fixed scope of work, such as a home purchase.

Note that legal expenses and administrative costs may not be included in the fee, so it’s advisable you check with your lawyers to gain more information.

What does a “full-service law firm” mean

A full-service law firm, like Chown Cairns LLP, offers a wide range of legal services under one roof. You can expect to receive the most personal, professional, and commercial law services at the firm. With over 60 years of experience, our team of lawyers and support staff is well-equipped to handle all your legal needs

How much do lawyers charge?

The Law Society of Ontario does not set a standard fee for lawyers, and there is no set hourly rate for legal services. A lawyer’s fee will vary based on their expertise, experience, and track record of success.

Additionally, lawyers offer different types of services, so it is more important to consider the value you will receive rather than just the fee.

What law services do you offer?

Chown Cairns LLP is a full-service law firm that provides a wide range of civil law services, including:

  • Labour and employment
  • Corporate and commercial transactions
  • Wills and estates
  • Residential and commercial real estate
  • Personal injury
  • Family law
  • Civil litigation
  • Commercial litigation

When you work us, you will work with a respected group that has helped shape the Niagara skyline. We are trusted by individuals and businesses alike for legal advice and representation on complex matters.

What am I required to bring to my free initial consultation?

The first meeting is a valuable opportunity to go over your case, learn about available options, and decide on your next steps.

To help explain your case better, bring along any relevant information, such as documents or items that pertain to the case.

For example, if you’re involved in a car accident, you may want to bring letters from your insurance company. If you’re in a contract dispute, make sure you have a copy of the contract with you.

Do the lawyers offer free phone or office consultation?

We offer free consultations over the phone and in-person. Moreover, if you are unable to visit our office, our lawyers can come to you at the hospital or to your home. Please inform us if you require any special accommodations for the meeting, and we will do our best to make the necessary arrangements.

What kind of fees can I expect?

We charge hourly fees in line with the prevailing market rates. Our lawyers will inform you in advance of any increase in the hourly fee so that you can make an informed decision regarding your case. Similarly, our lawyers will explain contingency fee agreements clearly at the outset, and how the fee may increase if the risk associated with pursuing the claim changes.

However, we will provide you with notice before fee changes, and your lawyer will advise you accordingly.

Do you have offices in Ontario?

Our office is situated in St. Catharines, though our lawyers are also reachable in Niagara Falls, and the broader Niagara region. We advise and represent individuals and businesses alike. You can find directions to our office and contact information here: https://chownlaw.com/contact/.

Our legal team has earned the trust of the community and has been a reliable advisor for some of the top businesses in the Niagara region for over 60 years.