Perspective
Sometimes all you need to navigate the legal landscape is a little information. Our blogs and articles touch on a wide spectrum of legal matters that can pop up in both business and everyday life, and we hope they’ll shed a little light wherever you happen to need it.
Understanding the PPSA Filing Process in Ontario: A Guide for Secured Creditors
News · Winston & Co.
In Ontario, the Personal Property Security Act (PPSA) governs secured transactions. When a creditor wants to secure an interest in a debtor’s personal property, it’s essential to register a financing statement under the PPSA.
Step 1: Obtain a Security Agreement
A written security agreement is required to create a valid security interest. This agreement outlines the collateral involved and the rights of the secured party.
Step 2: Register with the Ontario PPSA Registry
Once a security agreement is signed, the creditor should file a financing statement online through Ontario’s ServiceOntario system to perfect their interest.
Step 3: Renewal and Maintenance
PPSA registrations are valid for a fixed term. Creditors must monitor expiry dates and renew accordingly to maintain priority.
Why It Matters
A properly filed PPSA registration ensures a creditor has legal priority in the event of default or bankruptcy.
Final Thoughts
For lenders and business professionals, understanding Ontario's PPSA is critical to protecting financial interests.
Ontario Employment Standards: What Every Employer Should Know
Employment · Compliance · Winston & Co.
The Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) sets minimum standards for most workplaces in Ontario. Employers and employees should be familiar with its core principles.
Hours of Work and Overtime
Employees are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate after 44 hours of work in a week, unless exempted.
Leaves of Absence
The ESA guarantees job-protected leaves such as maternity leave, parental leave, sick leave, and more.
Termination and Severance
Employees may be entitled to termination pay or severance pay depending on length of service and business size.
Final Thoughts
Staying compliant with the ESA helps protect businesses from costly disputes and ensures fair treatment of workers.
Real Estate Law in Ontario: Key Legal Considerations When Buying a Home
Real Estate · Winston & Co.
Buying a home in Ontario involves more than just signing an agreement of purchase and sale. Understanding key legal requirements can save time, money, and legal headaches.
Title Searches and Due Diligence
Lawyers conduct title searches to ensure the property has no liens, easements, or title defects.
Land Transfer Tax
Ontario homebuyers must pay a land transfer tax based on the purchase price. First-time buyers may qualify for a rebate.
Closing the Transaction
Your lawyer coordinates with the seller’s lawyer to complete the financial exchange, register the property, and transfer keys.
Civil Litigation in Ontario: What You Need to Know Before You Sue
Litigation · Winston & Co.
Whether it’s a contract dispute or a negligence claim, Ontario’s civil litigation process involves key procedural steps and timelines.
Statement of Claim
The lawsuit begins when the plaintiff files a Statement of Claim in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.
Discovery
Both parties exchange documents and conduct examinations for discovery before trial.
Settlement and Trial
Many cases settle out of court. If not, the matter proceeds to trial before a judge or jury.
Family Law in Ontario: Divorce, Custody, and Support
Family Law · Winston & Co.
Family law in Ontario covers matters such as divorce, parenting time (custody), spousal and child support, and property division.
Divorce and Separation
In Canada, divorce is granted on the basis of a one-year separation, adultery, or cruelty. Most couples file after separation.
Parenting Time and Decision-Making
Courts focus on the best interests of the child when deciding custody and access issues.
Support Obligations
Child support is determined using the Federal Child Support Guidelines. Spousal support considers income disparity and financial need.