Terms & Conditions

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing or using the Northgate Legal website or engaging our legal services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you may not access our website or use our services.

2. Definitions

• "Services" refers to legal advisory and consultation services provided by Northgate Legal, including business immigration assistance, corporate governance guidance, and contract review.
• "Client" refers to any individual or entity that engages Northgate Legal for legal services.
• "Website" refers to the Northgate Legal website accessible at northgatym.club.
• "We," "Us," or "Our" refers to Northgate Legal.
• "You" or "Your" refers to users of the website or clients of our services.

3. Legal Services Engagement

3.1 Attorney-Client Relationship

An attorney-client relationship is established only through formal engagement confirmed in writing. Website use, email inquiries, or initial consultations do not automatically create an attorney-client relationship. Confidentiality protections apply only once a formal engagement is established.

3.2 Scope of Services

The scope of services for each engagement will be defined in a written engagement letter. We provide legal services only within our defined practice areas: business immigration, corporate governance, and commercial contracts. Services outside these areas require separate arrangement or referral to appropriate counsel.

3.3 Accuracy of Information

Clients are responsible for providing complete and accurate information. Our advice is based on information provided to us. Changes in circumstances or new information may affect previous advice, and clients should promptly inform us of relevant developments.

4. Website Use

4.1 Permitted Use

You may use our website for lawful purposes related to learning about our services and contacting us regarding potential legal matters. You agree not to use the website in any way that violates applicable laws or regulations.

4.2 Prohibited Activities

You agree not to:

• Use the website in any manner that could disable, overburden, or impair the website
• Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any portion of the website or its systems
• Use automated systems to access the website without permission
• Copy, modify, or distribute website content without authorization
• Use the website to transmit harmful code or malicious software

5. Fees and Payment

5.1 Fee Structure

Fees for legal services are established in the engagement letter and may be structured as flat fees, hourly rates, or other arrangements as agreed. All fees are in Canadian Dollars (CAD) unless otherwise specified.

5.2 Payment Terms

Payment terms, including timing and method, are specified in the engagement letter. Retainers may be required before services commence. Invoices are typically due within 30 days of issuance unless other arrangements have been made.

5.3 Additional Costs

Fees do not include disbursements such as court filing fees, government application fees, courier charges, or other third-party costs. These expenses are billed separately and payable by the client.

6. Intellectual Property

6.1 Website Content

All content on the Northgate Legal website, including text, graphics, logos, and software, is the property of Northgate Legal or its content suppliers and is protected by Canadian and international intellectual property laws.

6.2 Client Documents

Documents and work product created for clients in the course of providing legal services remain the property of the client, subject to our right to retain copies for professional records as required by law.

7. Disclaimers and Limitations

7.1 Website Information

Information on our website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice is provided only to clients through formal engagement and after review of specific circumstances.

7.2 No Guarantees

While we strive to provide high-quality legal services, we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. Legal processes involve uncertainties and factors beyond our control, including actions of third parties, government agencies, and courts.

7.3 Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by law, Northgate Legal's liability for any claims arising from our services is limited to the fees paid for the specific matter giving rise to the claim. We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages.

8. Confidentiality

We maintain strict confidentiality regarding client matters in accordance with:

• Law Society of Alberta rules of professional conduct
• Solicitor-client privilege protections
• Our privacy policy and applicable privacy legislation

For more information about how we handle personal information, please review our Privacy Policy.

9. Termination of Services

9.1 Client Termination

Clients may terminate our services at any time with written notice. Clients remain responsible for fees for services provided up to the date of termination and any work necessary to conclude the matter properly.

9.2 Our Termination Rights

We may withdraw from representation in accordance with Law Society rules, including situations involving non-payment of fees, loss of client confidence, conflicts of interest, or client conduct inconsistent with our professional obligations.

9.3 Post-Termination

Upon termination, we will return client property and provide files as appropriate, subject to our right to retain copies for our records and any applicable liens for unpaid fees.

10. Dispute Resolution

10.1 Informal Resolution

If you have concerns about our services, please contact us directly. We are committed to addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.

10.2 Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the Province of Alberta and the laws of Canada applicable therein. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Alberta.

10.3 Professional Complaints

If you have concerns about professional conduct, you may contact the Law Society of Alberta, which regulates the legal profession in Alberta.

11. General Provisions

11.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms and Conditions, together with any engagement letter and our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and Northgate Legal regarding website use and services.

11.2 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

11.3 Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms does not constitute a waiver of that right or provision.

11.4 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your relationship with us without our written consent. We may assign our rights and obligations under these Terms.

11.5 Notice

Notices to Northgate Legal should be sent to the contact information provided below. We will provide notices to clients at the contact information provided to us.

12. Changes to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective when posted to our website. Your continued use of the website after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms. We recommend reviewing these Terms periodically.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact:

14. Acknowledgment

By using our website or engaging our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.