Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction and Acceptance

These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern your use of the website operated by Garrison & Webb ("the Firm," "we," "our," or "us") and the legal services we provide. By accessing our website or engaging our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

Please read these Terms carefully before using our website or engaging our services. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, you should not use our website or engage our services.

These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Garrison & Webb. We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time, and such modifications will be effective immediately upon posting on our website.

2. Definitions

For the purposes of these Terms, the following definitions apply:

• "Services" refers to the legal services provided by Garrison & Webb, including consultations, document preparation, and legal representation.
• "User" or "You" refers to any individual or entity accessing our website or engaging our services.
• "Content" refers to all information, text, images, and other materials available on our website.
• "Client" refers to any individual or entity that has entered into a formal retainer agreement with the Firm.
• "Agreement" refers to these Terms and any retainer agreement entered into between a Client and the Firm.

3. Use of Services

3.1 Permitted Use

Our website is provided for informational purposes and to facilitate communication regarding our legal services. You may use our website to learn about our Firm, review information about our services, and contact us regarding potential legal matters.

3.2 Age Requirements

You must be at least eighteen (18) years of age or the age of majority in your jurisdiction to engage our legal services. By engaging our services, you represent that you meet this age requirement.

3.3 Accuracy of Information

You agree to provide accurate, current, and complete information when communicating with our Firm or submitting forms through our website. You are responsible for maintaining the accuracy of any information you provide.

4. Prohibited Uses

When using our website or services, you agree not to:

• Violate any applicable federal, provincial, or local laws or regulations
• Infringe upon the intellectual property rights of the Firm or any third party
• Transmit any harmful code, viruses, or malicious software
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to our systems or networks
• Engage in any fraudulent activity or misrepresent your identity
• Use our website or services in any manner that could harass, abuse, or harm others
• Use automated systems to access our website without our express permission
• Resell or redistribute our services without authorization
• Provide false or misleading information regarding your legal matters

5. Intellectual Property

5.1 Ownership

All content on our website, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of Garrison & Webb or our licensors and is protected by Canadian and international copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

5.2 Limited License

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to access and view our website content for personal, non-commercial purposes. This license does not include the right to reproduce, modify, distribute, or create derivative works from our content without our express written permission.

5.3 Client Documents

Documents prepared by the Firm for clients remain the intellectual property of the Firm until full payment is received. Upon payment, clients receive a license to use such documents for their intended purpose.

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Currency and Fees

All fees are quoted and payable in Canadian Dollars (CAD). Fee structures will be detailed in your retainer agreement before services commence.

6.2 Payment Timing

Payment terms are specified in individual retainer agreements. For consultation services, payment is typically due at the time of booking. For ongoing matters, invoices are issued monthly and are due upon receipt unless otherwise specified.

6.3 Accepted Payment Methods

We accept payment by cheque, bank transfer, and major credit cards. Payment arrangements may be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

6.4 Taxes

All fees are subject to applicable taxes, including HST where applicable. Taxes will be added to invoiced amounts as required by law.

7. Refund Policy

7.1 Consultation Fees

Consultation fees are non-refundable once the consultation has taken place. If you cancel a scheduled consultation with at least 48 hours' notice, you may reschedule or receive a refund. Cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.

7.2 Retainer Refunds

Unused portions of retainer deposits may be refundable upon termination of services, less any fees incurred for work already performed and documented disbursements. Refund processing typically takes 14 to 21 business days.

7.3 Non-Refundable Items

Services already rendered, disbursements paid to third parties on your behalf, and administrative fees are generally non-refundable.

8. Disclaimers and Limitations

8.1 Website Information

The information provided on our website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should not rely on website content as a substitute for professional legal consultation.

8.2 No Guarantee of Outcomes

While we strive for excellence in all matters, the Firm cannot and does not guarantee any specific outcome for legal matters. Legal outcomes depend on numerous factors beyond our control, including applicable law, facts of the case, and decisions of courts or opposing parties.

8.3 Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Garrison & Webb shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of our website or services, regardless of the theory of liability.

8.4 Force Majeure

The Firm shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performing obligations due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including natural disasters, government actions, labour disputes, or technical failures.

9. Termination

9.1 Termination by Client

You may terminate our services at any time by providing written notice to the Firm. You will remain responsible for payment of fees for services rendered and disbursements incurred up to the date of termination.

9.2 Termination by Firm

The Firm may withdraw from representation in accordance with Law Society of Ontario rules, including for non-payment of fees, loss of confidence, or conflict of interest. Where required, we will seek appropriate court permission before withdrawing from active litigation.

9.3 Effects of Termination

Upon termination, we will provide you with your file materials in accordance with Law Society requirements. Certain provisions of these Terms, including intellectual property rights, payment obligations, and limitation of liability, survive termination.

10. Dispute Resolution

10.1 Informal Resolution

In the event of any dispute arising from these Terms or our services, we encourage you to first contact us directly to attempt informal resolution. Many concerns can be addressed through open communication.

10.2 Mediation

If informal resolution is unsuccessful, either party may propose mediation before a mutually agreed-upon mediator. The costs of mediation shall be shared equally unless otherwise agreed.

10.3 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Province of Ontario and the federal laws of Canada applicable therein. Any legal proceedings arising from these Terms shall be brought before the courts of Ontario, and you consent to the exclusive jurisdiction of such courts.

11. General Provisions

11.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with any applicable retainer agreement, constitute the entire agreement between you and the Firm regarding the subject matter herein and supersede all prior agreements and understandings.

11.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

11.3 No Waiver

Our failure to enforce any provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of that provision or our right to enforce it in the future.

11.4 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer your rights under these Terms without our prior written consent. The Firm may assign its rights and obligations under these Terms in connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets.

11.5 Notices

Any notices required under these Terms shall be in writing and sent to the contact information provided by each party. Notice shall be deemed received upon delivery if delivered in person, upon confirmation of receipt if sent by email, or three business days after mailing if sent by registered mail.