It can be intimidating to meet with legal professionals, so a group of lawyers in Toronto created a coffee shop to create a comfortable atmosphere where people can seek legal advice.
While a law firm based in a café is non-conventional, sipping a cappuccino while meeting with a legal professional is one way to take the edge off.
Lawyers & Lattés on Eglinton Ave. W. near Spadina Rd. opened in November. The firm offers a variety of legal services, including confidentiality agreements ($99), prenuptial agreements ($499), commercial lease agreements ($699), mortgage refinancing ($1,000), an uncontested divorce ($949) and a family trust ($1,499).
Free legal advice is available each first Saturday of the month.
There are usually one or two attorneys on site each day, according to The Star. They come from a pool of approximately 50 legal professionals who specialize in various areas of law and can be matched with those requiring specific assistance.
The law community was eager to get on board, tax attorney Dale Barrett told The Star, noting that many reached out to see how they could get involved. The top priority is creating a relaxing atmosphere for clients. There’s also a separate space in the back of the store for those who want more privacy.
Business is going well thanks to word of mouth and a good number of walk-ins. Expansion is possible in the near future, according to Barrett.
Currently, the most popular service is basic wills, which cost $349 and include one hour of an attorney’s time.
Lawyers & Lattés also holds complimentary seminars twice a month. Upcoming subjects include will drafting on Jan. 10, tenant rights on Jan. 24, and selling a business on Feb. 7.
Free LSAT seminars are planned for the future.
In addition to warm beverages, the café also provides cold drinks, pastries, salads and more for purchase. Those who are interested can schedule an appointment online. The café is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
