When Do You Need a Repossession Lawyer?
If you have any issues, questions, or concerns related to a repossession in Canada, it is important to reach out to a repossession lawyer for help. A repossession occurs when a creditor takes back possession of property when the debtor fails to fulfill their contractual obligations, for example, not making timely payments on their loan.
Common examples of repossession include vehicle repossession and repossessed homes. There are certain restrictions on how property may be repossessed which protect both lenders and debtors, including:
- Proper notice: A lender has to provide proper notice to you as the debtor regarding their intent to repossess your property.
- Peaceful repossession: The repossession of your property has to be carried out without causing a breach of peace.
- This means no threats or violence may be used.
- Legal processes: In certain situations, a lender must follow specific legal processes, such as obtaining a court order, prior to repossessing a property.
Even if your property has been repossessed, you may still have certain legal options and rights, such as:
- Redemption: You may have the right to redeem your property if you pay off the entire loan balance in addition to any costs associated with the repossession within a certain time.
- Reinstatement: In some jurisdictions, you may be able to reinstate your loan by catching up on your missed payments and associated fees, which may allow you to regain possession of your property.
Your lawyer for repossession can explain your rights and help you determine if the options above may be available to you.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Repossession Lawyer in Canada?
The cost to hire a repossession attorney will vary depending on many factors, such as:
- Type of firm: Larger law firms will commonly charge higher fees than smaller law firms or solo practitioners.
- Experience: A lawyer with more experience will often charge higher hourly rates and fees.
- Location: Lawyers in larger cities often charge higher fees than lawyers in small towns or rural areas.
- The complexity of the case: Complex cases will usually cost more to resolve than simple ones.
- Billing method: The fee arrangement can have a significant impact on the cost. Fee arrangements may include:
- Hourly rate
- Retainer fee
- Flat fee
- Contingency fee
If a repossession lawyer charges their clients by the hour, or with an hourly rate, it may range anywhere from CA$200 to CA$500 depending on the factors listed above.
What to Look for in a Repossession Lawyer?
It is important for you to look for a severance lawyer who fits your budget, your needs, and with whom you are comfortable working. Examples of things to look for in your repossession lawyer include:
- Practice area: It is important to choose a lawyer who handles repossession cases.
- Experience: Try to find an attorney with previous experience handling repossession cases.
- Knowledge of trust laws and regulations: It is important to make sure that your attorney has the knowledge and understanding of the repossession laws that will apply in your jurisdiction.
- Communication: Try to locate a repossession attorney who takes the time to respond to your communications and questions in a timely manner.
How to Prepare for Your Consultation With a Repossession Lawyer?
It is essential to prepare for a consultation with a repossession lawyer before going to make sure that you get the most out of that meeting. Before a consultation, it is essential to gather any documents you may have related to the repossessed property, such as:
- Your payment history
- Any ownership documents for the property
- Communications with the lender, including repossession notifications
It is also essential that you make a written list of any questions or concerns you may have with your lawyer during the consultation to ensure that you have everything addressed. This meeting will also be an excellent time to discuss the fee arrangement that your lawyer will use and what your payments will cover.
Where to Find Repossession Lawyers in Canada?
One of the most convenient places to find a repossession attorney in Canada is LegalMatch. LegalMatch provides a simple, efficient, and free process for finding a repossession attorney who meets your needs and budget.
It may be tempting to just search online for “repossession lawyers near me” or “repossession attorneys near me,” but the results you receive may not always be helpful. By using LegalMatch, you will be matched with licensed and pre-screened attorneys near you who are ready to begin working on your case in a few simple steps:
- Submit your case: Submit information about your repossession issue on the LegalMatch website.
- Get matched: Get matched with lawyers in your area who are qualified to handle your repossession case.
- Choose your lawyer: View responses from lawyers that include their education, experience, and client reviews.
You have nothing to lose by using LegalMatch today to simplify the process of finding a top-rated repossession attorney in your area, whether you are in a small town or a large city. such as Vancouver, Montreal, or Toronto.
