Frequently asked questions about legal services at Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation
Find answers to common questions about real estate law, private mortgages, estates and probate, wills and powers of attorney, and corporate and business law. This page is designed to help clients better understand the legal process before contacting the office.
Clear answers for important legal decisions
Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation assists clients with practical, professional legal guidance across residential and commercial real estate matters, private mortgages, estate administration, wills and powers of attorney, and corporate and business law.
These frequently asked questions provide general information to help clients feel more informed before reaching out to the office and to better understand what the legal process may involve.
Legal services covered on this FAQ page
Frequently asked questions
Below are answers to common questions from clients in Aurora, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, York Region, and surrounding communities who are looking for experienced legal support.
Real Estate Law FAQs
Answers for buyers, sellers, homeowners, and commercial property clients.
What does a real estate lawyer do in a purchase or sale transaction?
A real estate lawyer helps review the agreement, conduct title searches, prepare legal documents, address closing requirements, receive and transfer funds, and complete the closing process. Legal support is important for both residential and commercial real estate transactions to help protect your interests and reduce the risk of avoidable issues.
When should I contact a real estate lawyer during a real estate transaction?
It is best to contact a real estate lawyer as early as possible once you are preparing to buy, sell, refinance, or transfer property. Early legal guidance can help identify potential concerns, clarify timelines, and make the process smoother from the start.
Can a lawyer help with both residential and commercial real estate matters?
Yes. Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation assists clients with residential and commercial real estate matters. The legal process, documentation, and level of due diligence can vary depending on the nature of the property and transaction.
What is a title search and why is it important?
A title search is a review of the legal history of a property. It helps identify ownership details, registered encumbrances, easements, outstanding issues, and other matters that may affect the property. A title search is an important part of helping ensure there are no unexpected legal problems before closing.
Can a lawyer help with refinancing a property?
Yes. A lawyer can assist with refinancing by reviewing lender instructions, preparing and registering the required documents, and helping complete the transaction properly. Legal support can help ensure the refinancing process is handled accurately and efficiently.
Do I need a lawyer to transfer property between family members?
Property transfers between family members still involve important legal and financial considerations. A lawyer can help prepare the necessary documents, register the transfer, and identify issues that may affect ownership, financing, or future planning.
What should I bring when meeting about a real estate matter?
You may be asked to provide identification, the agreement of purchase and sale, mortgage information, property details, and any other relevant documents related to the transaction. The office can advise you on what is needed for your particular matter.
Private Mortgages FAQs
Guidance for both private lenders and borrowers.
What is a private mortgage?
A private mortgage is a mortgage arrangement where the lender is not a traditional financial institution. Private mortgages may be used in a range of circumstances, including short-term financing needs, alternative lending situations, and transactions requiring greater flexibility.
Can the firm represent private lenders and borrowers?
Yes. Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation provides legal support for both lenders and borrowers in private mortgage transactions. Proper legal documentation and a clear structure are important for both sides.
Why is legal documentation important in a private mortgage transaction?
Private mortgage transactions should be carefully documented to clearly set out the loan terms, repayment obligations, security, and rights of the parties involved. Well-prepared legal documents can help reduce misunderstandings and protect the integrity of the arrangement.
What does a lawyer do in a private mortgage transaction?
A lawyer can assist with preparing and reviewing mortgage documents, conducting title searches, registering the mortgage, coordinating the transaction, and helping ensure the documentation reflects the intended terms of the deal.
Can private mortgages be used for residential or commercial properties?
Yes. Private mortgages may be used in both residential and commercial contexts, depending on the specific transaction and needs of the parties involved.
Should I get legal advice before entering into a private mortgage?
Yes. Because private mortgages can involve significant financial and legal obligations, it is wise to obtain legal advice before completing the transaction. Early legal guidance can help clarify the structure and identify important issues before documents are signed.
Estates & Probate FAQs
Support for executors, trustees, and families handling estate matters.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of confirming the authority of an estate trustee or executor to administer an estate. In Ontario, this often involves applying for a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee where required.
Do all estates need probate?
Not every estate requires probate. Whether probate is needed depends on the nature of the assets, how they are held, the institutions involved, and the circumstances of the estate. A lawyer can help determine whether probate may be necessary in your situation.
What does an estate lawyer do during estate administration?
An estate lawyer can guide the estate trustee through the administration process, help prepare probate application materials if needed, assist with identifying assets and liabilities, and provide support with legal documents and procedural steps involved in settling the estate.
How long does the probate process take?
Timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the estate, the completeness of the available information, court processing times, and whether any issues arise during the administration process. Some matters move more quickly than others.
What documents are commonly needed for estate administration?
Common documents may include the original will, death certificate, information about assets and liabilities, property details, and records relating to financial accounts or other estate property. The office can advise you on what may be required for your matter.
Can the firm help if I have been named executor in a will?
Yes. If you have been named executor or estate trustee, Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation can assist you with understanding your responsibilities and moving through the administration process with greater clarity and confidence.
Wills & Powers of Attorney FAQs
Planning documents to help protect your wishes and future decision-making.
Why is it important to have a will?
A will allows you to set out how you want your estate handled after your death, who will act as estate trustee, and how your assets should be distributed. Having a properly prepared will can help reduce uncertainty and make estate administration more orderly.
What is a power of attorney for property?
A power of attorney for property is a legal document that allows someone you trust to manage financial and property-related matters on your behalf, depending on the terms of the document and the circumstances in which it takes effect.
What is a power of attorney for personal care?
A power of attorney for personal care allows someone you trust to make personal care decisions for you if you are unable to make them yourself. This may include decisions about health care, housing, nutrition, hygiene, and other personal care matters.
When should I update my will or powers of attorney?
You may want to review or update your documents after major life changes such as marriage, separation, divorce, the birth of a child, a significant change in assets, a change in your chosen decision-makers, or a move in your personal or business circumstances.
Can the office help me prepare both a will and powers of attorney at the same time?
Yes. Many clients choose to address wills and powers of attorney together as part of a broader estate planning process. This can help create a more complete legal plan for both future incapacity and estate administration.
What should I bring to a will or powers of attorney appointment?
You may be asked to bring identification and basic information about your family situation, assets, chosen executor or attorneys, and any existing estate planning documents you currently have in place.
Corporate & Business Law FAQs
Legal guidance for incorporations and ongoing business matters.
What does a corporate and business lawyer help with?
A corporate and business lawyer can assist with incorporations, business structuring, legal documentation, and other business-related legal matters. Legal support can help business owners make informed decisions and establish a stronger legal foundation for their operations.
Can the firm help me incorporate a business?
Yes. Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation assists clients with incorporation matters. The office can help guide you through the legal process and prepare the necessary incorporation documents.
When should I speak with a lawyer about starting a business?
It is often helpful to speak with a lawyer early in the process of starting a business. Early planning can help you better understand structure, documentation, and legal considerations before important decisions are finalized.
Can a lawyer help existing business owners as well as new businesses?
Yes. Legal assistance may be useful both when establishing a new business and when managing ongoing matters for an existing company. Different stages of a business can involve different legal needs.
What information might I need for a business law appointment?
You may be asked to provide identification, proposed business details, current corporate documents if applicable, and any other records relevant to the matter you would like to discuss.
General Firm FAQs
Helpful information before contacting the office.
What areas does Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation serve?
The firm serves clients in York Region and surrounding communities, including Aurora, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, Schomberg, Kettleby, Bradford, Pottageville, King City, Thornhill, and Markham.
How do I contact the office?
You can contact Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation through the website contact page or by email to discuss your legal matter and next steps.
Can I contact the office before I have all of my documents ready?
Yes. You can reach out even if you do not yet have every document gathered. The office can help you understand what information may be needed for your matter.
Does this FAQ page provide legal advice?
No. The information on this page is general information only and is not legal advice. Legal advice depends on the facts of your specific matter. For advice about your situation, you should contact the office directly.
Still have questions about your legal matter?
Contact Michelle E. Hubert Professional Corporation for professional legal support in real estate law, private mortgages, estates and probate, wills and powers of attorney, and corporate and business law.