Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction

These Terms and Conditions govern your use of legal consultation services provided by Lexford and your access to our website. By engaging our services or using our website, you agree to be bound by these terms.

If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please do not use our services or website. These terms constitute a binding legal agreement between you and Lexford.

2. Definitions

• "Services" refers to legal consultation services provided by Lexford, including immigration consultation, corporate formation assistance, and real estate transaction support.
• "Client" or "You" refers to any individual or entity engaging our services or using our website.
• "We," "Us," or "Our" refers to Lexford and its employees, contractors, and representatives.
• "Agreement" refers to these Terms and Conditions together with any engagement letters or service agreements.
• "Website" refers to our online presence and digital platforms.

3. Use of Services

3.1 Eligibility

You must be at least 18 years of age to engage our services. If engaging services on behalf of an organization, you represent that you have authority to bind that organization to these terms.

3.2 Service Scope

Our services are limited to legal consultation in the areas of Canadian immigration, corporate formation, and real estate transactions. We do not provide legal representation in court proceedings or litigation matters.

3.3 Information Accuracy

You agree to provide accurate, complete, and current information when engaging our services. You are responsible for updating us promptly if information changes during the course of your matter.

4. Prohibited Uses

You agree not to:

• Provide false or misleading information
• Use services for any unlawful purpose
• Infringe upon intellectual property rights
• Transmit harmful code or malware
• Attempt unauthorized access to our systems
• Engage in fraudulent activities
• Harass or interfere with service provision
• Resell or redistribute our services without authorization

5. Intellectual Property

5.1 Our Content

All content on our website and materials created in providing services, including text, graphics, logos, and software, are owned by Lexford or our licensors and protected by Canadian intellectual property laws.

5.2 Limited License

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive license to access and use materials provided specifically for your matter. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without written permission.

5.3 Client Content

Documents and information you provide remain your property. By providing materials to us, you grant us permission to use them as necessary to provide services.

6. Payment Terms

6.1 Fees

Service fees are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD). Fixed fees are specified for many services, while hourly rates apply to certain consultation types. All fees will be clearly communicated before service commencement.

6.2 Payment Timing

Payment is typically required before services begin or according to milestone schedules specified in engagement letters. Invoices are due upon receipt unless other terms are agreed in writing.

6.3 Accepted Methods

We accept payment by bank transfer, certified cheque, or credit card. Processing fees for certain payment methods may apply.

6.4 Price Changes

We reserve the right to modify service fees. Changes will not affect services already engaged under fixed-fee arrangements.

6.5 Taxes

All fees are subject to applicable taxes, including Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) where required.

7. Refund Policy

Refunds may be available in certain circumstances:

• If services have not commenced and you cancel within 48 hours of payment, a full refund minus administrative fees may be provided
• Once work has begun, fees are generally non-refundable, though unused retainer portions may be returned
• Third-party fees (government filing fees, registration costs) are non-refundable once paid
• Refund requests must be submitted in writing to [email protected]
• Processing typically takes 7-14 business days

8. Disclaimers and Limitations

8.1 Service Provision

Services are provided on an "as is" basis. While we strive for favorable outcomes, we make no representations or warranties regarding specific results. Legal processes involve variables beyond our control, including government processing times and regulatory changes.

8.2 No Guarantees

We cannot provide outcomes in immigration applications, business registrations, or property transactions. Our role is to provide competent consultation and prepare applications carefully, but approval decisions rest with relevant authorities.

8.3 Liability Limitations

To the maximum extent permitted by law, our liability is limited to the fees paid for the specific service giving rise to a claim. We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages.

8.4 Risk Assumption

You acknowledge that legal matters involve inherent risks and uncertainties. You assume responsibility for decisions made based on our consultation.

8.5 Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or failures in performance resulting from circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including natural disasters, government actions, or technology failures.

9. Termination

9.1 Client Termination

You may terminate services at any time by providing written notice. You remain responsible for fees for work completed and expenses incurred up to the termination date.

9.2 Our Termination Rights

We may terminate services if: (1) you breach these terms, (2) you fail to provide necessary information or cooperation, (3) you fail to pay fees when due, or (4) continuing representation would violate professional obligations.

9.3 Effects of Termination

Upon termination, we will provide you with your file materials and cooperate with any successor consultant you engage. Outstanding fees remain due and payable.

9.4 Surviving Provisions

Confidentiality obligations, payment terms, and dispute resolution provisions survive termination.

10. Dispute Resolution

10.1 Informal Resolution

If disputes arise, we encourage you to contact us first to seek informal resolution. Many concerns can be addressed through direct communication.

10.2 Mediation

If informal resolution is unsuccessful, the parties agree to attempt mediation before pursuing other remedies. Mediation costs will be shared equally unless otherwise agreed.

10.3 Jurisdiction

These terms are governed by the laws of Ontario and Canada. Any legal proceedings must be brought in the courts of Ontario.

10.4 Applicable Law

The relationship between us is governed by Canadian law, including the rules and regulations of the Law Society of Ontario.

11. General Provisions

11.1 Entire Agreement

These terms, together with any engagement letters, constitute the entire agreement between us and supersede all prior understandings.

11.2 Severability

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions continue in full effect.

11.3 No Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision does not constitute a waiver of that right or provision.

11.4 Assignment

You may not assign your rights or obligations under these terms without our written consent. We may assign these terms in connection with a business transfer.

11.5 Notices

All notices must be in writing and sent to the addresses specified in engagement letters or to [email protected]. Notices are deemed received when delivered personally, three business days after mailing, or when confirmed by email.