Q: How can an immigration lawyer help you? A: The face of Western Canada is changing, and the immigrant population is rising steadily, even in rural areas. There are government websites, general information websites and private agents who are hired to assist in these matters. However, an immigration lawyer specializing in this area of the […] Read more
Stories by Gail D. Wartman
New rules require consumers’ consent
Most people are likely aware of Canada’s new anti-spam legislation, which came into effect across the country on July 1. What is this law about and what does it do? First, let’s start with a basic definition. Spam is any electronic message such as an email or text message that is sent to you for […] Read more
Burden of proof differs for civil, criminal cases
Q: What does burden of proof mean in legal proceedings? A: It’s the level or standard of proof that has to be met to succeed in a legal proceeding, and it is different, depending on whether it is a civil or criminal matter. In a civil (non-criminal) court case, the burden of proof is usually […] Read more
Serving as rural municipal councillors carries responsibilities
Q: I have been approached to let my name stand as a councillor in my rural municipality in Sask-atchewan. I know generally what that entails, but what are some of the legal implications? A: Municipal government has often been described as the level of government closest to the people. In common language, this is “where […] Read more
What is a tort; what types are there?
The word tort sounds like a dessert, but is a legal term that means a private or civil wrong or injury. It comes from the Latin torquere, meaning to twist. Generally, a tort is a wrong that is not related to a contract. The main components include: that a duty of care is owed in […] Read more
Using a lawyer for real estate transactions can reduce risks
Q: Why would I use a lawyer to assist me in buying or selling real estate? A: If you are selling, the lawyer makes sure that you get your money. If you are buying, the lawyer makes sure that you get good title to your property. But the duty of a lawyer is much larger […] Read more
Emotional issues can cloud judgment in settling disputes
The phrase “it’s the principle of it” is a noble and praise-worthy notion but it also causes knots to form in the stomach of negotiators and mediators. Our legal system is predicated on the administration of justice, and the goal is to afford justice to all members of society. However, our justice system is an […] Read more
