Author: Alistair Vigier
Most people don’t realize that depression can be legally classified as a disability in Ontario, but it absolutely can. This is true when the disability substantially limits your ability to function in everyday life. That means if your depression is making it difficult (or impossible) to work, maintain relationships, or handle daily responsibilities, you may have legal protections, the right to workplace accommodations, and, in some cases, access to financial support. I’ve worked with people in these situations firsthand. These are individuals who’ve had their jobs threatened, had their benefits denied, or faced outright discrimination because their employer or insurance…
Been in a car crash in Washington State? 30,000 crashes happen here yearly, yet only 5% of people seek legal help. That means most drivers end up settling for way less than they deserve. The aftermath of a crash can leave you with injuries, unexpected bills, and confusion about what happens next. After working with numerous crash victims in Tacoma and Seattle, I’ve seen firsthand how the proper steps can make or break your financial recovery. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and ensure you’re not left footing the bill. Immediate Actions That Can Save You Later…
There have been some significant disputes over data usage recently in the legal artificial intelligence space. If your startup has ever dealt with the courts it can feel like you’re drowning in an ocean of jargon, deadlines, and endless red tape. You think hiring a lawyer will solve everything, only to be hit with sky-high fees that make you question whether justice is worth pursuing or if it’s even possible to defend yourself. For many, the process feels hopeless. Legal software designed to bring order to a complex system is now entangled in a lawsuit. The dispute between CanLII, a…
Are you wondering if it’s okay for you to sell magic mushrooms? Magic mushrooms, scientifically known as psilocybin mushrooms, have captured public fascination since the 1960 hippy era. Their potent effects on perception, mood, and cognition make them a subject of intense debate, especially as conversations about mental health, alternative therapies, and drug policy evolve. While their potential therapeutic benefits are increasingly recognized, the legal status of buying or selling magic mushrooms remains a complex and contentious issue worldwide. A Patchwork of Laws and Regulations The legality of magic mushrooms varies dramatically depending on the country. It also varies between…
Do you think that artificial intelligence can reshape digital marketing? It’s common to hear digital marketers say they’re drowning in data but starving for insights. The software they rely on to gather and analyze information is often expensive, fragmented, or involved in legal battles that slow innovation. The recent lawsuit between CanLII, a nonprofit known for providing free access to legal information, and Caseway, a startup using artificial intelligence to speed up legal research, has sparked a conversation beyond their dispute. It’s a fight over who controls public data and how it can be used, with implications far beyond the…
Canada’s immigration courts are in bad shape. Canada likes to see itself as a global beacon for compassion and justice. But behind the contract discussions around inclusivity and fairness lies a broken immigration court system that is abandoning thousands of people in their time of greatest need. With immigration case filings projected to reach 24,000 this year, which is a 44% increase over last year, the Federal Court is overwhelmed, underfunded, and ill-prepared to handle the crisis. This isn’t just an administrative failure; it’s a betrayal of Canada’s core values. Canada’s immigration system is failing everyone. For claimants, it means…
Are you looking for a great criminal defence lawyer in Canada? If you’ve ever had to go through the criminal justice system, you know how hard it can be. Having a top-tier criminal defence lawyer by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your criminal case and how you experience the process. I’ve worked closely with many criminal law firms and seen firsthand how a skilled defence lawyer approaches a legal case. These are people who are problem-solvers, strategists, and sometimes part-time therapists. Let me summarize this with real-world examples to highlight what sets a great…
In a dispute highlighting the challenges of professional ethics in the legal field, an Ottawa law firm faces serious allegations from a former client. These include claims of conflict of interest, exorbitant billing practices beyond what the provincial law society permits, and breaches of confidentiality, raising concerns about the firm’s professional conduct and reputation. The dispute arises from a trial in which a former client successfully sued another law firm for significant owed funds, leading to the firm’s closure and the disbarment of one of its partners. The client retained the Ottawa firm to get through the trial, investing approximately…
Aaron Wenner’s recent opinion, published in Canadian Lawyer titled “Why Public Access to Law Doesn’t Mean a Free-for-All,” tries to position the lawsuit between CanLII and Caseway as a noble defence of public interest. This whole case is about gatekeeping innovation in the legal space, and Wenner’s vested interest as the chief strategy officer of Jurisage, “Canada’s second-largest case law database,” makes that abundantly clear. I wonder why the second-largest case law database wouldn’t want things to change. Let’s break down the rhetoric. Wenner paints a picture of CanLII as a selfless protector of public legal access and positions Caseway…
From minor violations to serious crimes, each carries its own set of punishments. If you have to deal with these laws, you should know the basic categories and how Missouri defines and punishes different crimes. Whether dealing with assault, theft, or something else, having the proper context can make the system less daunting. Missouri organizes crimes into three broad categories. Infractions are the least severe and usually involve fines rather than jail time. Think of traffic tickets or minor municipal violations. Misdemeanors are a step up, with potential penalties including fines and jail time up to a year. These might…