Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

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1. Where are you located?

2. What areas does Sparling Paralegal serve?

​3. How is a paralegal different from a lawyer in Ontario?

4. Can paralegals provide notary services in Windsor?

5. ​When should I contact a paralegal about my legal issue?

6. What should I bring to a paralegal consultation in Windsor?

7. What notary public services are available in Windsor, Ontario?

8. What does it mean to have a document notarized in Ontario, and when is a Notary Public needed?

9. Where can I find notary public services by appointment in Windsor?

10. How much does it cost to hire a paralegal in Windsor, Ontario?

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Landlord Tenant Board (Residential Tenancies Act) Questions

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11. ​Where can I find paralegal services for landlord tenant issues in Windsor?

12. What does a paralegal do for landlord-tenant disputes in Windsor?

13. Can a paralegal represent me at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)?

14. Can paralegals help first-time landlords with lease reviews?

15. How do I file an eviction for non-payment of rent in Ontario?

16. What is a security deposit for tenants and landlords in Ontario?

17. What is the difference between a guideline and an above‑guideline rent increase in Ontario?

18. When can a landlord use Form N12 to evict for their own use or a purchaser’s own use in Ontario?

19. What is a Form N5 notice and why might a landlord serve one in Ontario?

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Small Claims Court Questions

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20. Do I need a lawyer or a paralegal for Small Claims Court in Ontario?

21. What is the limit for Small Claims Court in Ontario?

22. What types of cases can a paralegal handle in Small Claims Court?

23. How long does small claims court take in Windsor Ontario?

24. How do I start a Small Claims Court Plaintiff’s Claim in Ontario?

​25. How to get help with Small Claims Court cases in Windsor, Ontario?

26. What can I do after I get a Small Claims Court judgment in Ontario?

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Where are you located?

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Sparling Paralegal is located at 1368 Ouellette Avenue, Suite 402, Windsor, Ontario, N8X 1J9. We serve clients in Windsor-Essex and across Ontario through in‑person and remote paralegal services, including Small Claims Court, Landlord and Tenant Board matters, and Notary Public services.

For directions and current office information, please visit our Google Business listing here.

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What areas does Sparling Paralegal serve?

 

Sparling Paralegal serves Windsor, Chatham and London Ontario for Small Claims Court and we serve all of Ontario including Sarnia, Wallaceburg, Stratford, Hamilton, Guelph, Waterloo, and Ottawa for Landlord Tenant Board (Residential Tenancies Act) matters

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How is a paralegal different from a lawyer in Ontario?

 

Both lawyers and paralegals are licensed and regulated by the Law Society of Ontario, but they have different scopes of practice. Lawyers can provide legal services in all areas of law, while paralegals are restricted to defined areas such as Small Claims Court, Landlord and Tenant Board, and provincial offences.

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You can read more about how paralegals practice in Ontario on our blog, here.

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Can paralegals provide notary services in Windsor?

 

Yes, Sparling Paralegal offers notary services in Windsor through our licensed paralegals who are also qualified notaries. Not all paralegals provide notary services, but our team can assist you with document notarization by appointment. Call to schedule your appointment today, and read our Notary page for full details on services available in Windsor, Ontario.​

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​When should I contact a paralegal about my legal issue?
 

I would suggest that you contact a licensed paralegal in Windsor, Ontario as soon as you receive a ticket, claim, notice, or application — or even if you sense a legal dispute may be developing. Contacting a Windsor paralegal early can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities, protect important evidence, and avoid missing deadlines that could affect your case.

Whether your matter involves a small claims dispute, a traffic ticket, landlord and tenant issue, or another legal concern within a paralegal’s permitted practice areas, getting early advice can make a significant difference. A paralegal can review your situation, explain your options clearly, and help you take practical next steps to address your legal matter.

If you’re unsure about where to start, it’s always best to consult a licensed paralegal to discuss your specific situation and understand your available options under Ontario law. Click here to schedule a call. 

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What should I bring to a paralegal consultation in Windsor?

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For a paralegal consultation in Windsor, you should bring any relevant documents like leases, notices (e.g., N4,N5,N12), Small Claims Court forms, or LTB applications to help assess your case quickly. You should also bring any relevant documents like contracts, invoices, emails, photos of damage, tenancy agreements. Sparling Paralegal in Windsor can review your case details during your consultation to explain your options and next steps clearly.

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What notary public services are available in Windsor, Ontario?

A Notary Public in Windsor, Ontario provides commissioning and witnessing services including affidavits, statutory declarations, certified true copies of documents, and signature verification for personal, business, and legal purposes within the permitted scope of practice.

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Sparling Paralegal, a licensed paralegal office in Windsor, offers these Notary Public services by appointment for documents such as letters of invitation, travel consents, and other papers requiring notarization.

 

We do not draft Wills, Powers of Attorney, or provide legal advice reserved for lawyers. Contact us to book your notary appointment in Windsor.

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What does it mean to have a document notarized in Ontario, and when is a Notary Public needed?

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Notarizing a document in Ontario can involve several different actions, and isn't necessarily any one single thing. This can include certifying a document as a true copy of the original, confirming the identity of the parties signing an agreement as an impartial professional witness, or administering and witnessing a solemn oath, declaration or affidavit that carries the same weight as court evidence.

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You can read more about notarizing documents on our blog here. 

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Where can I find notary public services by appointment in Windsor?

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You can find notary public services by appointment in Windsor through Sparling Paralegal, a licensed paralegal office offering Notary Public and commissioning services in Ontario. We notarize affidavits, statutory declarations, certified true copies, letters of invitation, and other documents that require a notarial signature or seal, all by pre‑scheduled appointment to help you plan your visit. To book an appointment for notary services in Windsor, you can contact Sparling Paralegal directly to arrange a convenient time for your in‑person meeting.

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How much does it cost to hire a paralegal in Windsor, Ontario?

The cost of hiring a paralegal in Windsor, Ontario depends on the type and complexity of the legal matter, as well as how much time may be required to handle it. I would suggest reaching out early to discuss your situation so that we can provide a clear explanation of expected fees before any work begins.

Like many paralegals, we offer both flat and hourly rates depending on the case. For example, flat fees are often available for services such as traffic ticket representation, small claims court matters, or landlord and tenant disputes, while hourly rates may apply for more involved or unpredictable matters.

I believe that discussing fees openly helps clients make informed decisions and understand what to expect throughout their case. Click here to schedule a call.​

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Where can I find paralegal services for landlord tenant issues in Windsor?

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Sparling Paralegal provides expert paralegal services for landlord-tenant issues right in Windsor, Ontario. We handle LTB disputes, evictions, rent arrears, RTA compliance, and lease reviews for landlords and tenants throughout Windsor-Essex. Schedule a telephone call today to discuss your Windsor landlord-tenant needs with a licensed paralegal.

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What does a paralegal do for landlord-tenant disputes in Windsor?

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A licensed paralegal in Windsor Ontario can help with Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) disputes by preparing and filing notices and applications, like N4 notices for non payment, and other required documents. Paralegals provide representation and negotiation under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) for matters such as evictions, rent arrears, and maintenance issues. They help landlords and tenants to resolve disputes as efficiently as possible and understand their legal rights.

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Can a paralegal represent me at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)?

 

Yes, a licensed paralegal can represent you at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). At Sparling Paralegal, we provide professional LTB representation for landlords and tenants across Windsor-Essex and throughout Ontario. Our services include helping with eviction applications, rent arrears, maintenance issues, and ensuring compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) from start to finish.​

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Can paralegals help first-time landlords with lease reviews?

 

Yes, I review residential leases using Ontario's mandatory standard form lease for Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) compliance, explain key terms clearly, and help Windsor landlords avoid common pitfalls. A consultation lets you ask questions, understand your rights, and learn how to prevent disputes before they start—saving time, stress, and money. Schedule a telephone call today to get practical advice tailored to your needs.

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How do I file an eviction for non-payment of rent in Ontario?

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Filing an eviction for non-payment of rent in Ontario requires using the N4 notice and L1 application under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Rules and timelines change frequently, but you can read more about the process on our blog here.  You can also click here to schedule a free 15 minute telephone call with a licensed Windsor Paralegal.

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What is a security deposit for tenants and landlords in Ontario?

 

Security deposits for damages are not permitted in Ontario under the Residential Tenancies Act. Landlords cannot collect money upfront specifically to cover potential property damage beyond normal wear and tear.

 

A last month's rent deposit (equal to one month's rent) is permitted at move-in, and this is not a security deposit—it's solely for the final month's rent. (There are limited exceptions—see details in our full blog post.)

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Sparling Paralegal in Windsor, Ontario assists landlords and tenants with security deposit disputes at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) within the permitted paralegal scope of practice.

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Read our complete guide on security deposits here.

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What is the difference between a guideline and an above‑guideline rent increase in Ontario?

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A guideline rent increase is the standard, annual amount a landlord may raise the rent without special permission, up to the percentage set by the Ontario government. An above‑guideline rent increase is a higher increase that a landlord must apply for at the Landlord and Tenant Board, usually based on significant capital repairs, increases in certain operating costs, or other specific grounds allowed by the legislation.

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Read our full article on the guideline and above guideline increase on our blog, here.

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When can a landlord use Form N12 to evict for their own use or a purchaser’s own use in Ontario?

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A landlord may use Form N12 when they, an immediate family member, or a purchaser or their close family member genuinely intends to move into the rental unit as their primary residence. There are many specific rules that apply, including proper notice periods, compensation to the tenant, and a good‑faith intention to occupy the unit for the required minimum time. Tenants who believe they have been given an N12 or N13 in bad faith can bring a T5 application to the board wherethe landlord risks penalties for giving a bad‑faith eviction notice.

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To read more about N12 applications, check our our blog here.

 

For more information about the T5, click here.

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What is a Form N5 notice and why might a landlord serve one in Ontario?

 

A Form N5 is a notice to end a tenancy for cause, used when a tenant causes substantial damage, interferes with others’ reasonable enjoyment, or allows overcrowding contrary to health and safety standards. The notice usually gives the tenant a chance to correct the problem within a set period; if the issue is not fixed, the landlord may apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to terminate the tenancy.

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Do I need a lawyer or a paralegal for Small Claims Court in Ontario?​

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If you don't feel comfortable representing yourself, you can choose either. A licensed paralegal can handle claims up to $50,000 in small claims court cost-effectively without the fees of a lawyer. Contact Sparling Paralegal for affordable small claims paralegal services.

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What is the limit for Small Claims Court in Ontario?

 

In Ontario, the Small Claims Court limit is $50,000.00 as of 2026. This court handles smaller legal disputes, such as unpaid invoices, property damage, or contract disputes in a faster and more affordable way. You can find a link to the amended regulation that increases the jurisdiction limit from $35,000.00 to $50,000.00  here.  

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What types of cases can a paralegal handle in Small Claims Court?

 

In Small Claims Court, a paralegal can help with monetary claims up to the current court limit, including unpaid invoices, loans, contracts, property damage, and some employment-related disputes within that limit. They can assist with drafting the claim or defence, gathering evidence, negotiating settlement, and appearing in court on your behalf.

 

​​​​​​​​​​​​​How long does small claims court take in Windsor Ontario?

 

Small Claims Court cases in Ontario take highly variable amounts of time due to court backlogs and case complexity. In our office, we have some disputes filed in 2025 that have already reached settlement conferences, while others from 2020 still face COVID-era delays. In January 2026, clients are typically advised to prepare for up to a 2-year wait before trial, but there are no guarantees.

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If you have questions, Schedule a telephone call for a personalized assessment of your Ontario Small Claims Court matter and timeline strategies. Early planning helps navigate delays effectively.

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How do I start a Small Claims Court Plaintiff’s Claim in Ontario?

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To begin a Small Claims Court case, you prepare and file a Plaintiff’s Claim form that clearly sets out who you are suing, what you are asking for, and the facts that support your claim. You must then serve the claim on the defendant in an approved way and file proof of service with the court, following the court rules and limitation periods that apply to your type of case.

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For help with your Small Claims Court issue, call 519-564-3242 or book online to connect with a licensed Windsor paralegal.

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​How to get help with Small Claims Court cases in Windsor, Ontario?

 

To get help with Small Claims Court cases in Windsor, Ontario, contact a licensed paralegal authorized to represent clients for claims up to $50,000 involving unpaid debts, contracts, property damage, or faulty workmanship.

 

Sparling Paralegal in Windsor provides Small Claims Court representation including filing claims, defending lawsuits, preparing for mediation, and attending court hearings within the permitted paralegal scope of practice.

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Call 519-564-3242 or book online to discuss your Small Claims matter with a licensed Windsor paralegal.

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What can I do after I get a Small Claims Court judgment in Ontario?

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Getting a judgment does not automatically mean you are paid; if the defendant does not pay voluntarily, you may need to take enforcement steps. Options can include examining the debtor about their finances, garnishing wages or bank accounts, or seizing personal property, using the enforcement procedures set out in the Rules of the Small Claims Court.

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You can read more about judgment enforcement and how to get paid from your judgment on our blog here.

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