LANDLORD TENANT MATTERS
We assist landlords and tenants throughout Ontario with disputes under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA). The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the tribunal that hears and decides residential tenancy disputes, including eviction and rent arrears, and enforces rights and responsibilities set out under the RTA.
Helpful Resources
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA): https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/06r17
- LTB (Landlord and Tenant Board) official site: https://tribunalsontario.ca/LTB/
What the LTB Does
The LTB hears disputes between landlords and tenants about issues such as:
- Evictions (non-payment of rent or breaches)
- Rent owed
- Maintenance & repair disputes
- Lease interpretation issues
- Illegal lockouts or utility shut-offs
The LTB is one of the busiest tribunals in Ontario and typically receives tens of thousands of applications each year. In 2024, the LTB scheduled its highest number of hearings in history — over 109,000 hearings — and resolved over 106,000 cases in that year alone.
Mediation & Resolution Before a Hearing
Before a formal hearing takes place, the LTB offers opportunities for mediation and dispute resolution. Mediation gives both parties a chance to reach a mutual agreement through facilitated discussion with a Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO) or by using the LTB’s Online Dispute Resolution tool through the Tribunals Ontario Portal.
Successful resolution before a hearing can save time, stress, and costs for both landlords and tenants.
What to Expect at an LTB Hearing
LTB hearings are usually conducted virtually, though some may be in person. Both landlord and tenant present their case to an adjudicator, including:
- Oral testimony
- Documentary evidence
- Witness testimony, if applicable
The adjudicator may ask questions for clarification. After the hearing, a written order is issued, which is legally binding.
Why You Need Professional Help
LTB hearings involve strict procedures and documentation requirements. Whether you are a landlord seeking rent owed or eviction, or a tenant responding to a dispute or maintenance issue, having experienced representation can greatly improve your ability to present your case effectively. We assist clients from the initial stages of a dispute, including mediation and settlement discussions, through to hearings before the Landlord and Tenant Board when necessary.
SMALL CLAIMS COURT
Cote Paralegal Services assists individuals and businesses with matters in Small Claims Court in Ontario, which resolves civil disputes involving amounts up to $50,000, such as unpaid debts, contract disputes, or property damage.
The process begins when a Plaintiff’s Claim is filed, and the opposing party has the opportunity to file a Defence. Many matters are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or settlement conferences before a trial is necessary. If the case proceeds to a trial, both parties present their evidence and witnesses for consideration by the court.
We work closely with clients to compile and organize all relevant evidence, including documents, photographs, correspondence, and witness statements. We also conduct any necessary research to support the client’s claim, ensuring their file is complete and thoroughly prepared for any stage of the process.
NOTARY SERVICES
Cote Paralegal Services provides professional, efficient Notary Public and Commissioning services in Ontario, offering both in-office notary services and mobile notary services for your convenience. Whether you require document notarization, commissioning of affidavits, or certified true copies, we deliver reliable, timely service for personal, business, and legal needs.
In-Office and Mobile Appointments
- In-Office Notary Services: Appointments are available at our office for clients who prefer a traditional setting.
- Mobile Notary Services: We can attend your home, workplace, hospital, care facility, or another agreed-upon location, subject to availability and additional fees.
Appointments are required for all notary services.
Documents Commonly Notarized
Notarization involves verifying your identity and witnessing the signing of documents. Common documents that may be notarized include:
- Affidavits and statutory declarations
- Powers of Attorney
- Consent to travel letters
- Certified true copies of original documents
- Letters of invitation
- Insurance documents
- Business and corporate documents
- Landlord and tenant-related documents
- Foreign-use documents requiring notarization
Documents Commonly Commissioned
As a Commissioner for Taking Affidavits in Ontario, we may commission documents that require a sworn declaration or affirmation, including:
- Affidavits
- Statutory declarations
- Oaths and affirmations
- Government, court, and administrative forms
Commissioning confirms that the document was sworn or affirmed before a Commissioner; it does not verify the accuracy or truth of the contents.
Identification Requirements
All individuals attending a notary or commissioning appointment must present valid government-issued photo identification at the time of the appointment. The name on the identification must match the name on the document being signed.
Document Preparation Requirements
To ensure your notary appointment proceeds efficiently:
- All documents must be fully completed prior to the appointment
- No blank spaces may appear in the document at the time of signing
- Documents must be brought unsigned, unless otherwise advised
In certain circumstances, assistance with drafting or completing specific forms may be available for an additional fee, subject to the nature of the document and advance review. Please inquire prior to your appointment.
Incomplete documents cannot be notarized or commissioned.
Witness Requirements
If your document requires witnesses:
- All required witnesses must be arranged in advance
- Witnesses must attend the appointment with valid government-issued photo identification
- We do not guarantee the availability of witnesses unless previously arranged
Important Notes
Notary Public and Commissioner services do not include legal advice regarding the contents or legal effect of your documents. If you require legal advice, please advise us in advance so we can discuss whether additional services are appropriate.
RECORD SUSPENSIONS
A Record Suspension (formerly a pardon) removes your criminal record from the active database, giving you a fresh start. It can improve employment opportunities, simplify travel, and restore personal freedom.
We guide clients through the entire process, making it straightforward and manageable.
Process
- Eligibility Assessment – We determine if you qualify for a record suspension based on the type of offence and time since sentence completion.
- Document Collection and Preparation – We assist in gathering all required documents, including court records, police records, and proof of rehabilitation.
- Application Completion – We prepare and review your application to ensure it is accurate and complete.
- Submission to the Parole Board of Canada – We submit the application on your behalf and monitor the process.
Once submitted, review by the Parole Board typically takes 6–12 months, depending on case complexity and backlog.
Record Suspensions - Pardons - Niagara