In Law Society of Ontario v. Guiste, the Tribunal upheld a suspension and a $225,000 costs award, not just based on past conduct, but on how the licensee behaved during the hearing. This case shows that in professional discipline, remorse must be demonstrated, not declared. Evidence matters, including for claims of reform or financial hardship. For lawyers facing discipline, credibility and documentation are everything. It’s not just the evidence you file, its also how you conduct yourself during the hearing.
One of the biggest sources of friction in litigation isn't the legal work itself, it's the invoice. Clients often assume lawyers are only working when they are speaking in court. In reality, the vast majority of billable time is spent behind the scenes: analyzing evidence, drafting pleadings, and strategizing to protect your interests. This guide pulls back the curtain on how legal billing actually works. We explain why "quick updates" are billable legal advice, why emotional support is part of risk management, and why retainers are deposits, not flat fees. True transparency means knowing exactly what you are paying for and why it matters.