Many clients tell me they know I’m a rule follower. Surprisingly, this often is followed up with an example of a previous lawyer they used who didn’t follow the rules.
My standard response is, “well, those lawyers maybe have something to fall back on if they’re disbarred, but I was a server before being a lawyer and was terrible at it, so this is all I am able to do.”
The rules are often around the “know your client” obligations our Law Society imposes on lawyers. We’re required to obtain identification, find out the occupation of the director of a corporation providing information, obtain addresses, etc. New clients already find this a lot.
It’s about to get worse.
Starting January 1, 2022, the “know your client” obligations are becoming even tougher and more intrusive. This is intended to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. It’s going to annoy a lot of non-money launderers and non-terrorists.
Speaking of rules, those “wear your mask” rules in the workplace still apply. Even if only your staff is in the office. Even if they’re all double vaxxed. Doesn’t matter. Masks on unless eating or drinking.
This is not an Inga rule. It is an Ontario government rule.
As with all rules, don’t get upset with the lawyer who explains the rules to you: they’re only the messenger!
Inga B. Andriessen, JD