I am often asked, by individuals I meet and even other lawyers, what being a municipal law solicitor entails. Perhaps our readers are keen to know what I spend my days doing as well (besides writing fantastic blog content, of course!) and since we, at Municipal Matters, do not like to leave any stone unturned, here is the big reveal:

• drafting and reviewing agreements, site plan agreements, subdivision agreements, leases, licenses and by-laws to name a few;
• researching and providing opinions on an innumerable list of subjects. While the starting point for many assignments is the Municipal Act, we must frequently consult other legislation as well;
• negotiating, counselling and corresponding with, or on behalf of, our clients to avoid disputes.

The above-list notwithstanding, there are still surprises when you receive a phone call from a client. A beaver may have caused a flood on a municipal road or a constituent might be vexatious in making freedom of information (FOI) requests. As well, the range of issues one might encounter differ from municipality to municipality.

Suffice it to say, municipalities are a business and, like any other corporation, require legal guidance in various ways to manage their day to day affairs.