By LegalMatters Staff • Generally speaking, the age of consent in Canada is sixteen. That is when a young person can legally agree to sexual activity, ranging from kissing and fondling to sexual intercourse. But there are some exceptions when it comes to consent. “Sexual activity without consent is a criminal offence, regardless of age,” […]
The age of consent in Canada is 16 in most instances Read More »
People that inherit a property have three choices: live in the residence, rent it or sell the property. Each has legal implications. “That is why anyone in this situation should seek the advice of a qualified real estate lawyer,” says Edmonton real estate lawyer Sean Schaefer. “They can guide you through the legal aspects of
Do I need a real estate lawyer if I inherit a house? Read More »
Cycling has become one of the fastest-growing modes of transportation in Toronto, according to the city’s website. The City of Toronto has pledged to grow, expand and enhance the cycling network and provide a safe and dedicated space for cyclists. However, while a bicycle provides a fun way to get around, cycling can also be
How to stay safe and avoid cycling accidents Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • A recent Ontario Superior Court decision may have some employers wondering once again if they should redraft the termination provisions in their employment contracts, says Toronto employment lawyer Ellen Low. In Dufault v. The Corporation of the Township of Ignace, Justice H. M. Pierce held that the termination provisions
Another court ruling raises questions about termination clauses Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • The purpose of a trademark is to identify the source of goods and services while providing legal protection for a brand, not to protect people’s sensibilities, says Toronto intellectual property lawyer John Simpson. Simpson, principal of IP and new media law boutique Shift Law Professional Corporation, says if governments
Trademarks Act not meant to protect Canadian sensibilities Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • With the ability to determine a patient’s potential response to medications based on their genetics, pharmacogenetic testing is a worthy investment that would quickly pay for itself, predicts Ontario disability insurance lawyer Courtney Mulqueen. Mulqueen, principal lawyer of Mulqueen Disability Law Professional Corporation, says pharmacogenomics combines the sciences of
Pharmacogenetic testing can help those with mental health issues Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • The legal age for firearm ownership across Canada is eighteen, even in situations where a shotgun or rifle is given as a gift or as part of an inheritance. But there is more flexibility in the law when it comes to using firearms for sport shooting. “Those under 18 can fire
Youths can legally use a firearm provided an adult is supervising Read More »
By Paul Russell, LegalMatters Staff • Proposed changes to the auto insurance system in Ontario may allow drivers to reduce their insurance premiums but that may result in financial hardship down the road, says Ontario disability and personal injury lawyer Joshua Goldberg. “The government has suggested people can lower their premiums by opting out of
Optional coverage is the wrong way to cut insurance rates Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Legitimate firearm owners have long argued that gun control legislation singles out them instead of criminals using unregistered weapons. A recent Statistics Canada report confirms that position “Among homicides where information was available, the accused had a licence in only 13 per cent (16 out of 119 homicides) involving handguns and
Legally registered firearms rarely used to commit criminal acts Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • The Toronto Lawyers’ Association’s (TLA) Courthouse Library may be the “best kept legal secret” in the city but it is also arguably one of the most valuable resources available to members of the Toronto Bar, the judiciary, articling students and the public, says executive director/library director Joan Rataic-Lang. “Access
TLA library adds new databases to impressive resource collection Read More »
