Terms of Service and Engagement Policy
Effective: October 2025
Disclaimer
The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Accessing or using this site does not create a solicitor–client relationship unless and until a formal retainer is confirmed by JZC Intellectual Property Law.
By contacting us, submitting instructions, or engaging our services, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the following terms.
1. Scope of Services
JZC Intellectual Property Law (“we” or “us”) will assist you with Canadian and international trademark filings, searches, and related intellectual property services as agreed. Other IP or legal services may also be provided upon request.
2. Fees and Payment
Our standard legal fees and applicable government fees are provided by email with each engagement. A full fee schedule is available upon request.
Quoted fees include filing and basic reporting. Government and foreign associate fees, if any, are billed separately. Full payment is required before work begins. For other matters, payment is due within 30 days of invoice. Late payments may incur interest as permitted under the Solicitors Act (Ontario). We are not responsible for late government or third-party fees arising from delayed or missing instructions.
3. Refunds and Estimates
Once an application is filed, all fees (legal and government) are non-refundable. If you choose not to file after preparation or search, only completed work will be billed, and any excess payment may be credited toward future filings or refunded at your choice.
While we will always act diligently and in your best interests, we cannot guarantee specific results. Legal outcomes depend on factors beyond our control; therefore, all fees remain non-refundable even if the desired result is not achieved.
If an application or action becomes abandoned due to non-payment, missing instructions, or our inability to reach you, we are not responsible for any resulting loss of rights. You are responsible for keeping your contact information current. We will make reasonable efforts to reach you before deadlines but cannot guarantee successful contact in all cases.
4. Confidentiality and Communications
We are bound by strict confidentiality under the Law Society of Ontario’s professional conduct rules. All client information is protected by solicitor–client privilege, which provides at least the same protection as a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).
We communicate electronically (e.g., email, video call) and use reputable cloud systems (e.g., Google Workspace, Dropbox) for secure storage. To improve efficiency and accuracy, we may use AI-assisted tools internally for drafting and proofreading. These tools are used only under lawyer supervision, and no confidential client information is shared with public systems.
5. Termination
You may end our services at any time by written notice. We may also withdraw for good reason (e.g., unpaid fees, conflict, or lack of cooperation). You are responsible only for fees and expenses incurred up to the termination date.
6. Governing Law
These terms are governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada.
New clients may be asked to complete a Client Identification Form in compliance with the Law Society of Ontario’s Client Identification Rules.
