Frequently Asked Questions
Most Popular
Can we meet virtually?
Oh, yes! Particularly during this pandemic, we’re all for virtual meetings, whenever they’re possible. Not only are they safe, but our clients say they’re nice and convenient. Sometimes it’s nice to take care of business from the comfort of your home, right? Teams, Zoom… we can setup a call on your preferred platform.
However, it’s important to note that not all matters can be handled virtually. For example, we need to have you visit the office to sign a will. (Don’t worry—we have thorough safety protocols for in-office visits!)
What’s your COVID-19 policy?
We want the most vulnerable people in our community—and across the world—to be safe during this pandemic. We’re all in this together. That’s why we aren’t currently accommodating for walk-ins. We also have a full vaccination requirement in place for all visitors to our building. Masks are optional and if you would like to request our team wear one, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Is the coffee (really) always on?
Absolutely! Coffee with your neighbour isn’t just a tag line. Believe it not, we have three coffee machines in our building, usually all with a fresh brew. We also have tea, accompaniments, and bottled water available in our lobby, and we’re sure we can find juice boxes on hand for our young friends too.
How do I pay my account?
Paying isn’t necessarily fun, but at least at MacCallum Law Group, it’s always easy. You have four options: over the phone with a credit card, by e-transfers, with a cheque, or online using our secure Law Pay site. If you pay with an e-transfer, send it to [email protected] with a separate email to [email protected] that has your file number and password to accept the transfer.
If you’re unsure about the amount you owe, please contact our trusty admin team. They will give you the info you need or put you in touch with accounting.
What’s with the tartan?
Every clan has their tartan, and we’re no exception. Back in 2017, we felt inspired to pay homage to our firm’s family roots, shared values, and tendency to celebrate special events with bagpipes. So, we created our own tartan, and we wear it proudly.
What ID do I need to bring for my meeting?
It depends! But in general, two pieces of valid (i.e., not expired) I.D are your best bet: one with a government issued photo (e.g., driver’s license, passport); and a second one that confirms your name (e.g., medical services card, major credit card). We also require your vaccine passport as well.
Don’t forget: our admin team exists to make things easy and efficient for you. Feel free to call front desk ahead of time to confirm what you should bring.
Visiting our Office
Do you have parking?
Yes, we do and it’s free! We also have designated accessible parking spaces and convenient pick up and drop off spots outside our front entrance.
Is your office open on weekends?
Nope. Our incredible team members bring their A game Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. This is part of our firm’s family values; for us to have time at home to relax and connect with family.
Can we bring kids?
Many clients ask us this—you are not alone. Yes, children are absolutely welcome. We’re parents and grandparents and are here to help. We have toys, colouring books, and dogs in the courtyard for entertainment.
So…I’ve heard that dogs are welcome?
You heard right! We are a law firm that enjoys a canine visitor. In fact, we have a fenced private courtyard where your dog can hang out while you’re meeting with us, or alternatively, join the meeting. Our in-house dog-client liaisons, Axel and Bow, are mature and friendly black Labradors and are always happy to entertain both human and canine guests upon request.
Need a dog treat? Our Front Desk team can assist.
Our one-of-a-kind clan
I’ve heard your firm has a thing about…costumes?
You’ve heard correctly. Basically, whenever we can possibly justify it, we like to break out the tickle trunk and play dress-up. Of course, Halloween is a big firm tradition. But really…since we started our big annual clan tournament (and our teams are very competitive), team members can score tournament points any time they dress up for any occasion. Ever seen Office Space? It’s all about flair points!
MacCallum Law Group is a “family business”? How so?
We mean it literally! Multiple related MacCallums work here. We also mean it in terms of our values. We support each other to thrive, just like family members do (or should).
I’m looking to join the firm. What’s my first step?
Pop on over to the Join Our Firm for information on how to become a team member. We also post positions on our blog. We’re always open for the right candidates to join our exceptional group. [email protected] is also available to be contacted.
I’m looking for law firm sponsorship. Can you help?
Send an email outlining your request and any supporting materials to Sophie MacCallum. We always want to support local community and not-for-profit groups and we have annual fundraising events and budget for giving.
Meetings
What if I’m late for my appointment? Or miss it entirely?
Hey…it happens. The best thing to do is to call us ahead of time. Quite often, we will see if we can fit you in at a different time or delay the start of the meeting. (But do note that flexibility has its limits; if you get in the habit of being late without prior communication, we’ll have to add those missed appointment fees to your bill.)
Let us know in advance of special requests
Whether you are visiting alone or accompanied by family member(s) and/or caregiver(s), we’d love to make your time with us as comfortable as possible. We have meeting rooms located on the ground floor and upstairs in our balcony room. If you’re making an appointment with us, just let us know of any special requests, and we’ll do whatever we can to meet them.
Do you do after hour meetings?
We know it’s tough to schedule meetings when you work a 9 to 5 job. But unfortunately, we don’t regularly schedule after hour meetings. Our incredible team members bring their A-game Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. This is part of our firm’s family values; we want our team members to have the time with their loved ones that they deserve.
That said, if you have a special need, call our front desk or the legal assistant working on your file. We’ll see what we can do!
General
You took on my will(s) or family records after a merger. Who do I speak with?
First, don’t worry. If you’ve arrived at our law firm from a merger or your records have been put into our care, we have all of your files and we’re keeping them safe and secure.
For all will and estate related matters, please contact Stacey Gallie.
For all corporate matters, please contact [email protected].
Finally, here’s where you can find more information about our Mergers and Acquisitions.
Need certified copies and/or affidavits?
We have our large team of lawyers and Commissioners for Taking Affidavits in-house available for appointments. Please speak with our front desk team to book your appointment.
How do I schedule my appointment?
You can either call our front desk team and get transferred to someone who can start helping you, or write us a message, and we’ll get in touch. After you contact us, our knowledgeable team will reach out to schedule the best time and date for you.
What do I do if I can’t get a hold of my lawyer?
First, we’re always going to respond as promptly as possible. But there are times when speaking with one of our paralegals will provide be very helpful. Our designated paralegal team will probably be able to answer many of your more urgent questions. Our paralegals are brilliant, experienced, and even game to tackle the occasional lawyer in the hallway and drag them to the nearest phone.
I need to send a file that’s too large for email! What do I do?
Oh, wow…first off, we’ve all been there. But fortunately, we have you covered. You can use our secure, commercial-grade file-sharing application tool. Our preference is not to use the likes of Dropbox or other free apps; our tool is just more secure. If you end up having issues using our file-sharing tool, just call our team and we’ll get you sorted.
English is not my first language. Can you help me?
Good news: we do pretty well at helping clients when English is not their first language. That’s’ because we have team members who have excellent translating skills and are fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Portuguese and Spanish.