Independent Legal Advice Edmonton

The cost of independent legal advice varies significantly based on several key factors:

1. Complexity: The complexity of the agreement plays a significant role in determining legal fees for independent legal advice. In some cases, such as a separation agreement where there are no children involved, no spousal support, and the only property is a house, the agreement will typically be straightforward. By contrast, if  the separation agreement involves more complex issues such as corporate restructuring, the complexity and time required to review and advise on same will greatly increase. In some cases involving particular complex financial issues, both parties may have to involve accountants in addition to their own separate lawyers. 

2. Financial Disclosure: If providing independent advice involves reviewing financial disclosure, as will often be required to accurately advise as to whether an agreement is fair or accurately reflects what a party may be entitled to, the time required to provide independent legal advice increases and accordingly so do the legal fees.

3. Revisions:  Many people seeking independent legal advice come to their lawyer with an agreement that has already been drafted by the other party’s lawyer. While they may believe the document is ready for signing, they often learn in the process of reviewing the document with their lawyer that revisions are required before they are able to safely sign the agreement.  Additional costs may arise if your independent legal advice reveals that revisions are necessary before you can sign the agreement.

In some cases, family lawyers can offer flat-fee arrangements for providing independent legal advice, particularly for straightforward agreements. However, it will typically be required for the lawyer to discuss with you the agreement prior to giving a quote on a flat fee.