Brian Lucas | Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer

I was retained by a family who lost there infant when she fell off the balcony to their apartment. The landlord was in the process of replacing all windows (which the tenants knew of) but did not alert the tenants as to the timing for there particular unit, and the window company left open windows being replaced. The loss of a child is a heart rendering loss, and the family refused to accept that a monetary settlement was all the law would permit. Eventually I was able to secure an apology, compensation for establishing a shrine in memory of the child, and appropriate monetary compensation. I think that the first two meant more for the family than the last.

Building a successful practice depends as much on creativity and hard work as it does to being responsive to the needs of an individual client. Thought and hard work area a must, but dealing with each case on an individual basis for the client (who is likely different than other individuals) and responding to their individual needs is just as important.

Clients should look for more than just what is advertised on TV or billboards. They should look for a lawyer who is knowledgeable about the particular field of law, and respected by their peers and the judiciary. The "best lawyer" is the lawyer who gets the "best results", and respect of peers and the judiciary enables just that.

Local knowledge of the law is essential. The basics of compensation are fairly routine, but there are wrinkles in every jurisdiction as well as knowledge, based on experience, as to reasonable assessments.

The preliminary consultation (not chargeable) provides the client with an opportunity to explain the nature of their complaint, for me to get a preliminary idea as to the nature of the case, and to formulate a plan for how best to deal with it moving forward. It enables me to provide my opinion as to how best to proceed, what needs to be done, and to reach agreement on appropriate retainer arrangements. A general understanding of the nature of the dispute, and potential damages is a must - the more documentation and information that can be provided the better.

What differentiates me from other lawyers, in addition to my experience and the respect I have, is my genuine interest in helping my client. I have received my LL.M which has enhanced my knowledge base, which together with my over 33 years of experience puts me in the best position to see a dispute to its appropriate conclusion.

The most rewarding aspect of my practice is seeing a claim from its outset (identifying needs, strategy) to its conclusion. My experience has been that the former ultimately leads to a successful conclusion.

Outside of my practice I enjoy skiing, golf, reading, and the arts. My family is a very important part of my life, and supporting and encouraging them is one of my essentials. I am and have been involved in our community in all of these activities.

• Law Society of Upper Canada
  Canadian Bar Association
  Toronto Lawyers' Association
  Canadian Defence Lawyers
  Defence Research Institute
  Ontario Bar Association

• Google +