Flat-Fee Packages (Solicitor Work)
For many immigration matters that are process-driven (e.g. permanent residence applications, study permits, work permits, LMIA-based applications, family sponsorships, and citizenship applications), we offer flat-fee packages. These packages include:
- A set number of hours from the lawyer
- A set number of hours from the administrative and paralegal work by our clerks
- Those hours also cover filing and communication support
Flat-fee packages help manage costs and expectations by providing clarity on services and billing. If your matter exceeds the scope or hours included in the package (due to complexity, new facts, or additional work), additional fees will apply based on our hourly rates.
Litigation Work
For more complex immigration matters involving litigation—such as refugee claims, appeals, judicial reviews, or admissibility hearings—we will give an estimate and bill by the hour. These matters often involve ongoing strategy, written submissions, hearings, and procedural steps that vary depending on how the case evolves.
Our approach focuses on realistic planning and efficient communication, which helps manage your legal costs and align expectations from the start.
Hourly Rate
Our principal lawyer, Ningjing (Natalie) Zhang, bills at a standard hourly rate of $350 + HST, calculated in six-minute increments for litigation matter. This reflects her experience, courtroom advocacy across various tribunals and courts, and her commitment to delivering high-quality, client-centered legal services.
To ensure cost-efficiency, we delegate appropriate tasks to our trusted law clerks. Clerk time is billed at a rate of $150 to $200 + HST per hour, depending on the complexity of the work. This collaborative approach allows us to manage files effectively while keeping your legal costs as reasonable as possible.
Consultation Fees
We offer two flat-rate consultation options:
- 30-Minute Virtual Consultation — $199 + HST
- 60-Minute Virtual/In-Person Consultation — $299 + HST
Unlike free consultations that provide only general guidance, our consultations are tailored to your specific legal situation. During this session, we analyze your documents, provide legal advice, and offer strategic direction so you walk away with a clear understanding of your options and next steps.
If you decide to retain us, $100 will be credited toward your retainer.
Retainer & Billing Process
To begin work on your file, we request a retainer—typically starting at $3,000, depending on the scope of work. This amount is held in trust and applied to your file as work progresses. If the retainer is used up, you may be asked to replenish it. Any unused funds will be returned once the file is closed.
We issue detailed invoices every other week or upon the completion of the work, whichever comes first. Our invoices outlining the work completed, time spent, and any disbursements incurred. We also regularly update you on your billing status so that there are no surprises.
Efficient Communication = Cost Control
We believe that efficient and focused communication is key to controlling legal costs. We encourage clients to consolidate questions and updates, use our secure online platform when possible, and be proactive with document organization and deadlines.
Legal Aid Certificate
At this time, we are in the process of being on the Legal Aid Ontario panel. We will accept Legal Aid certificates only for refugee claimants and certain immigration litigation matters, subject to availability in the near future. Please inquire if this applies to your situation.