“Intervening before a situation becomes a problem”
Kevin Jaques, Jaques Law Office, in Regina, Saskatchewan.
WHAT WERE THE STAGES IN YOUR EVOLUTION IN THIS BUSINESS?
When I started out in this field, I wanted to head my own firm. This happened earlier than I planned when I took over the business from a two-man firm who were leaving Regina private practice. I continued in their footsteps for a time, specializing in civil law, but was finally attracted to clients who provide added value or who complete something.
WHICH VALUES ARE YOU TRYING TO DELIVER TO YOUR CLIENTS?
Our clients produce creative material with value, which we protect, in order to save them time and especially money. I work only with private companies and small business in particular. This type of business needs informed advice on an ongoing basis in order to avoid potential conflicts with suppliers, employees, partners, etc. By being responsive, you can nip most conflicts in the bud. We have to intervene before a situation truly becomes a problem. Some lawyers prefer to resolve problems in court, which is not my case—I try to settle things by mutual agreement.
WHAT DOES YOUR LEGAL ADVICE SERVICE TO COMPANIES INVOLVE?
When an entrepreneur starts a company, it is often difficult to know which type of ownership structure is the best. I provide them with a legal perspective and the required documents to implement their idea. We meet our client’s annual legal requirements as well as consulting with them from time to time.
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
We try to be responsive, effective, and reasonable. Being responsive means you listen carefully and respond quickly. Effective means that you focus on and deliver practical results. Reasonable means being fair and moderate.