Fences can be a divisive issue. (Yes, we used “divisive” intentionally, there). It doesn’t matter if it’s a century home in one of the many villages in Kawartha Lakes. Or a brand new freehold in a brand new development. Or a farm somewhere in our vast agricultural area. Joel Watts, deputy clerk with the City of Kawartha Lakes, will explain what fence issues come up in our rural and farm areas – and who can help resolve them. Real Estate lawyer, Hamid Asrar, shares his wisdom and expertise (and offers some warning) for those considering a new fence in one of those brand new neighbourhoods where that new grass isn’t even in yet – and maybe that neighbour doesn’t even want a fence! Despite being a native Franco-Ontario, host Denis Grignon struggled to understand a legal term with a decidedly franco feel to it. Good thing Professor Glossary dropped in to explain it – in clear (English) language. Music for this episode is from Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.…

A true member of the family? Well, most dog owners would say so. But what happens when that dog’s owners - (and we’re going with the word “owners,” here) - decide to split up? Which...owner is entitled to custody (and we’ll go with the word “custody,” here) of that four-legged friend? Can the law step in should there be a dispute between the soon-to-be separate parties? Lawyer Golda Greenspoon (an expert on the topic and, it should be noted, a dog owner) tells us how, when and if the scales of justice can be used to determine where the dog ends up. We also speak with a dog expert and champion dog breeder, Julie Corlett. She offers some insight into how a separation, and a different home life, can affect that furry loved one. And how to ensure her/his transition is smooth. (Note how we didn’t use “its” transition. Because, well, dogs are people, too). Theme music by Kawartha Lakes’ own, Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.…

It’s the most common, angst-filled, question when you all of a sudden find yourself unemployed: “What happens now?” In the moment, it can be difficult to know what rights you have, what legal recourse you could pursue – if at all. Lawyer Calvin Chan, who specializes in employment law, dispels some popular misconceptions surrounding firings, lay-offs, employee rights, employer responsibilities – and a whole lot of other stuff we incorrectly assume, or should know on the topic. He also offers some advice on what to do, and not do, when you learn “your services are no longer required.” And because job loss is about more than just a loss of income, clinical social worker Lisa Greci joins us to discuss the emotional roller coaster, and the void, it creates. (She also has a special announcement, related to this topic of life transitions!) Professor Glossary is back, too. Because a show about the law explained in clear language relies on an “expert” to, you know, clearly explain certain legal terms. Music for this episode is by Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.…

A leader and inspiration to women – but also to everyone, really. Camille Williams-Taylor is Director of Education for The Durham District School Board. Hers is a path that saw many stops, many achievements, many milestones – but also more than a few instances where, as a woman, she had to dispel stereotypes, and adjust others’ expectations. Ms Williams-Taylor was the keynote speaker at a recent International Women’s Day event hosted by the Lindsay Advocate. And we had the wonderful opportunity to speak with her about her journey at the sold-out luncheon at the Pie Eyed Monk. Music for this episode is by Stella Panacci.…

In honour of International Women’s Day, we sit down with some of the women at Wards Lawyers. They share what this day in March means to them – and what their path to their profession was like. Yes, there’s been progress, in terms of gender parity – in law and all aspects of life. But as Golda Greenspoon, Victoria Smith, Amina Shabeen and Jessica Bolla point out, there’s still work to be done. One woman with deep experience, wisdom and insight on this topic is Karissa Ward. The co-owner and founder of Wards Lawyers discusses where we were, where we are, and where (hopefully) we’re headed when it comes to the workplace. All music for this episode comes to us from the very talented (and Kawartha Lakes neighbour!) Stella Panacci.…

Victoria Smith could have earned her law degree, entirely, closer to home. But crossing the pond to study in Wales was just too enticing. And graduating from a unique program that partners Trent U with Swansea U will, she says, ultimately make her a better lawyer. She tells us how. Professor Devin Penner would agree. We speak with the coordinator of the program at his office in Trent University. And we introduce a new segment, and expert to the show whose namesake says it all. Indeed, Professor Glossary - (yes, our tongue is firmly planted in cheek, here) – will provide clear definitions of some confusing legal terms. Music for our show comes to us from artists – and Kawartha Lakes residents! – Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.…

When we set out to create this show one year ago, we wanted it to be more than just a list of lessons and tips about the law. We wanted it to be about community - our community - and the role the law plays in our lives. This special end-of-year episode, with its audio montage of highlights from episodes in our first season, does, we believe, reflect this commitment. So, while you’ll certainly hear from legal experts from Wards Lawyers, you’ll also hear from neighbours and leaders who share your concerns and interests and passions – and commitment to our community and the people who call it home. So, please think of this show as your show. And know that we welcome your input and suggestions as we look forward to bringing you Season 2 of Wards Legal Matters in 2025. Theme music comes to you via two of those neighbours we mentioned. The wonderfully-talented Sean Jamieson and Stella Panacci.…

Most of us don’t typically dive into learning its nuances and complexities (and legal implications) until we absolutely have to – shortly after that loved one has passed and we have to carry out their wishes. If you’ve been named an executor, it’s a big responsibility. But it can be made smoother with a well-laid out Will. Stella Panacci, who shares her music for our show, joins us to also share her recent experience - its challenges, learning curves – with being an executor. Lawyer Ryan O’Neill will tell us how to go about creating that easy-as-possible-to-carry-out Will for your executor. And Karissa Ward, co-owner of Wards Lawyer, and a specialist in estate planning, explains why waiting until your golden years to write a Will should not be a thing. Theme music for this episode is by, yup, Stella Panacci.…

It comes with a whole lot of emotion – from anger to sorrow to despair. And when there are children in the equation of a looming separation, it takes all those painful feelings to another level. So, ensuring there’s a sound plan post separation is paramount. For the parents, but especially for the children. Law clerk Sam Drebit explains why it’s important that a legal expert help to lay out that co-parenting plan, which may include everything from dentist appointments to introducing new partners. It’s equally important for those uncoupling parents to first learn how to best manage the inevitable roller coaster of emotions before they sit down to finalize the legal piece of their separation. Here, too, it’s imperative to consult an expert – like Lisa Greci, a registered clinical social worker who offers some sound advice for parents entering this life transition. And Maria Francis, Director of First Impressions with Wards Lawyers, tells us why she chose to live in Kawartha Lakes. Music for the show written and performed by Stella Panacci and Sean Jamieson.…