Engagement and Fees

Our fees are based primarily on the time spent on a matter. However, other factors such as the intensity of the time involved, the complexity of the issues and the success achieved may be taken into consideration in rendering an account. It is our normal practice to have a signed billing and engagement letter for each client file, which sets out all relevant terms and conditions, including billing rates.

Estate Planning Fees

Our minimum fee for estate planning, which includes preparation of a will, continuing power of attorney for property and power of attorney for personal care starts at $5,000 (exclusive of harmonized sales tax, or HST and disbursements) — however as noted above, our fees will be based primarily on the time spent. After our initial meeting to receive your instructions it is our normal practice to provide a general guideline amount for projected fees.

Keeping You Informed

Accounts will be rendered on a periodic basis unless otherwise agreed upon. O’Sullivan Estate Lawyers LLP provides clients with timely detailed statements for professional services performed. Invoices are due and payable upon receipt.

Invoices, Expenses and Taxes

Generally, our invoice reflects the amount of fees for the services rendered during the period stated and includes all out-of-pocket expenses incurred, although the invoice may be of an interim nature and not reflect total fees and costs incurred to the date of the invoice. Such out-of-pocket expenses include, but are not necessarily limited to, document duplication costs, courier and facsimile costs.

Harmonized sales tax (HST) will apply to our fees for professional services. Our invoices will show separately the amount of HST applicable to the fees for services and disbursements described in the invoice for each matter.

Retainers

All funds received as a retainer will be deposited in a trust account and held in trust on your behalf. The monies in trust will be used to reimburse us for the legal fees billed to you together with expenses incurred on your behalf. Statements of the use of the trust funds deposited with us will be provided at the time our invoices are rendered.