Independent Legal Advice
Some legal and financial documents require or benefit from independent legal advice before signing. We provide independent legal advice to help you understand the nature of the document, your legal obligations, potential risks and the consequences of signing.
Common Documents Requiring Legal Advice
- Personal Guarantees
- Corporate and Business Guarantees
- Loan and Financing Documents
- Mortgage and Security Documents
- Guarantee Acknowledgment Act Certificates
- Independent Legal Advice Certificates
- Other documents requiring independent legal advice
Guarantees
Signing a guarantee can make you personally responsible for another person’s or business’s financial obligations. Before signing, it is important to understand the extent of the guarantee, when liability may arise and the potential financial consequences.
What to Bring
The lawyer will review the document with you, explain your legal obligations and significant risks, answer your questions, and confirm that you understand the document before signing. Where required, the lawyer can complete the applicable Independent Legal Advice or Guarantee Acknowledgment certificate.
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- The complete document you have been asked to sign
- Any related loan, mortgage or financing documents provided to you
- Contact information for the lender, lawyer or organization requesting the certificate
- Any signing instructions or deadlines you have received
Please do not sign the document before your appointment. The lawyer may need to review the document with you and witness your signature.
Before Your Appointment
Please send the documents for review before your appointment whenever possible. Additional time may be required for lengthy or complex documents.
Book an Independent Legal Advice Appointment
Contact us to discuss the document and arrange an independent legal advice appointment.