Garry M. Cass, North York, ON

In the old days, people had a family doctor, a family dentist, pharmacist, accountant and a family lawyer. In those days, professionals were members of the community and their clients were often neighbours. Family lawyers served the everyday needs of their clients and understood their unique circumstances in the face of life’s special challenges. People knew that their family lawyer was ready to work with them through every stage of their life and would help them ensure that the family was protected through the generations.
Today many people seek professional advice only when circumstances force the issue. Service is commoditized and professionals are seen as interchangeable. Sometimes we forget that the best professional advice comes from people who understand our needs, expectations, and goals, that is, people with whom we share an ongoing relationship; people we trust.