At Germain Arbitration, I provide tailored services with a focus on fairness, flexibility, and professionalism.
How do i charge?
My rate is $650 per hour, plus GST and disbursements. In some cases, I am open to offering pro bono services, either in whole or in part, depending on the circumstances. Generally, fees are prepaid unless lawyers, bound by Law Society obligations, agree to pay upon completion of the process.
To give you a sense of time and cost, I recommend budgeting:
3 hours for reviewing materials (approximately 1.5 hours per side)
A minimum of 3 hours for the mediation or arbitration session
An initial no-cost phone consultation will be scheduled with the involved lawyers to discuss the dispute, set expectations, outline procedures, and review mediation rules. There will only be a charge for this discussion if it leads to a settlement.
To confirm a mediation or arbitration date, I require a booking fee of $500 plus GST.
Flexibilty
I understand that circumstances can change, which is why I prioritize flexibility in the arbitration process. If your case is cancelled more than 120 days before the hearing date, I will fully refund the booking fee. Additionally, each party is permitted one adjournment without any additional charges or fees. If a resolution is reached during the initial pre-dispute resolution telephone conference, the booking fee will cover the entire cost of my services.
SCHEDULING
During the period between November 1 of each year and March 31 of the following year, Justice Germain is available for virtual mediation only. If you require an in-person mediation during that period more discussion of this issue will be required.
binding arbitration
I am well-versed in conducting binding arbitrations in accordance with the Alberta Arbitrations Act. These proceedings require written reasons for the ruling and may involve drafting final orders to be filed with the court. While binding arbitrations offer definitive resolutions, they also tend to be more time-intensive and complex due to the legal requirements of Alberta legislation.
Self-Represented Parties
I welcome cases where one or more parties choose to represent themselves. Self-represented individuals are required to attend the pre-dispute resolution telephone conference and the resolution hearing, as well as provide all necessary materials outlining their position and supporting facts. While I am committed to impartiality, it is important to note that I cannot act as legal counsel in these matters.
Additional Services
In addition to arbitration and mediation, I offer other dispute resolution services that may better suit your needs:
Simulated Trials: I can facilitate a simulated trial, where you can present witnesses and have them cross-examined. I will provide feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of your case and witnesses.
File Review: If you're unsure whether continued litigation is worthwhile, I can review your case file and offer an objective, cost-benefit analysis.
Please note, if you engage me for either a simulated trial or a file review, I will be disqualified from serving as an arbitrator or mediator in that same dispute.