Understanding the Cost of Legal Services

We believe in clarity, transparency, and helping clients make informed financial decisions.

Legal costs are often unplanned and come at a difficult time. We understand this, and our goal is to help you navigate the process with as much clarity and cost-efficiency as possible. The legal decisions you make now can significantly affect your future, and investing in qualified legal support is an important step.

We offer a range of service options to meet different needs and budgets. Our team uses technology and streamlined systems to help keep legal fees manageable while ensuring quality results.

Your First Step

The process begins with a consultation. Our Intake Team will speak with you to understand your situation and match you with the right lawyer.

Consultation Fee: $295 (including HST)
Duration: 1 hour
Format: In-person, Zoom, or telephone

We do not offer free consultations, instead, we offer real value from the first meeting. You'll receive clear legal advice, answers to your questions, and an initial roadmap forward. There is no obligation to retain our firm after the consultation.

When a Separation Agreement Is Needed

A Separation Agreement is a legally binding contract that resolves issues such as parenting, support, and property division. It is often required before a divorce can be granted.
You may reach terms through your negotiations, mediation, the Collaborative Process, or, if necessary, court proceedings.

Estimated Fees:

All ranges are estimates and may vary depending on case complexity.

Simple, uncontested agreements (self-negotiated or mediated)

$4,000-10,000

Collaborative Process

$6,000 - 20,000

Court proceedings (most complex)

$15,000 – $50,000+

We aim to avoid court when possible due to the higher costs. However, if litigation is necessary, we are prepared to represent you fully.

Divorce

Finalizing a divorce is typically the last step. We offer a fixed-fee option for uncontested divorces.

Uncontested Divorce Fee: $3,000 (includes court filing fees, legal time, and HST)
Timeline: Typically 4–8 months (dependent on court processing times)

Retainers

We require a retainer (deposit) before starting legal work. Funds are held in trust and used to pay invoices as work is completed. You will receive regular invoices to keep you informed.

Typical Retainer Amounts:

Co-habitation / Marriage Contract

$3,000

Collaborative Cases

$4,000

Separation Agreements

$4,000

Court Proceedings

$7,000

Urgent Motions

$10,000

Flat Fees vs. Hourly Billing

We offer both flat fees and hourly billing, depending on the service.

Flat Fees

Set in advance for specific services. No hourly tracking. Enables budgeting and reduces uncertainty.

Hourly Fees

Billed in 6-minute increments. Rates depend on experience and role.

Hourly Rates

Lawyers: $300 – $650/hour + HST
Law Clerks: $205 - $245/hour + HST
Rates are reviewed annually.

DIY Support & Coaching

If you don’t require full legal representation, we offer coaching and document preparation services. This is ideal if you're managing the process yourself but want occasional support. You can upgrade to full representation at any time.

Get Started

To move forward, book a consultation. Prepare by reviewing resources on our website and writing down your questions. We aim to remove uncertainty and give you a clear path ahead.

Barrie

124 Dunlop Street West
Barrie, ON L4N 1B1
(705) 727-4242

Newmarket

1195 Stellar Drive, Unit 4
Newmarket, ON L3Y 7B8
(289) 319-0634

Oakville

209 Speers Road, Unit 13
Oakville, ON L6K 0H5
(905) 291-6634

St. Catharines

110 James Street, Unit 105
St. Catharines, ON L2R 7E8
(905) 291-5231

© 1993–2026 Galbraith Family Law Professional Corporation · All Rights Reserved

© 1993–2026 Galbraith Family Law Professional Corporation

All Rights Reserved

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