Welcome to
Our Firm!

One of the things that makes Bird Bolt Law different is our team-based approach. You are not just hiring one lawyer—you are gaining a dedicated team that works collaboratively to support your file.

We Need Your Instructions to Move Forward

Under the rules that govern our profession, we act on your instructions. This means there are steps we cannot take without hearing from you first—for example, we cannot file documents, accept or reject settlement offers, or take procedural steps without your express approval. When we reach out for instructions, we kindly ask that you respond within 48 hours.

Communication Expectations

Email is our preferred method of communication. Email allows us to keep a clear written record of your instructions, which protects both you and us. It also allows our team to review and respond thoughtfully.

Response times. We aim to respond to all client emails within two business days. If your matter is urgent, please note that in the subject line.

Phone calls. We recommend booking a scheduled call through Kirsten so your lawyer can prepare and give you their full attention. Unscheduled calls may go to voicemail.

After hours. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Emails received outside these hours will be addressed on the next business day.

Keeping Communication Focused

• Consolidate your questions or updates into a single email rather than sending multiple short emails throughout the day.
• Upload new documents through the Clio portal with a brief note explaining what they are.
• Trust that no news is often good news—your file is being actively managed even during quieter periods.
• For status updates, contact Kathleen. She can let you know where things stand.
• We kindly ask that communication remain respectful and professional.

Clio is a secure, online platform that allows you to view documents, share files with our team, review invoices, make payments, and communicate through a secure channel. Think of it as your personal window into your legal file, available anytime from your computer, tablet, or phone.

Getting Started

1. Check your email (including spam/junk) for an invitation from Clio with the subject line “You have been invited to Clio for Clients.”
2. Click the link to create your account and set a secure password.
3. Once logged in, you can view shared documents, upload documents, check messages, and view and pay invoices.
4. Download the Clio for Clients app on your smartphone for easy access on the go.

Tips for Using Clio

• Upload documents directly to the portal rather than emailing attachments.
• Include a brief description when uploading (e.g., “Employment contract dated March 2024”).
• Check the portal regularly for updates, shared documents, and messages.
• If you have trouble logging in, contact Kirsten for help.

• 1
  Respond within 48 hours
  When we ask for your instructions or approval, please respond within 48 hours. This helps us meet critical deadlines.
• 2
  Be honest and thorough
  The more complete and accurate your information, the stronger your case. Please do not withhold information, even if you think it may be unfavourable.
• 3
  Provide documents promptly
  If we request documents, records, or information, please gather and provide them as quickly as possible.
• 4
  Keep us informed of changes
  If your contact information, employment status, health situation, or any other relevant circumstance changes, let us know right away.
• 5
  Trust the process
  Legal matters take time. There will be periods of intense activity and quieter periods. Both are normal.
• 6
  Respect the scope of our retainer
  Our retainer agreement outlines the specific services we are providing. If your needs expand, we will discuss and update accordingly.

Everything you share with us is protected by solicitor-client privilege. Your communications with our firm are strictly confidential and cannot be disclosed without your consent, except in very limited circumstances defined by law.

To protect this privilege, please keep the following in mind:

• Do not forward our legal advice to others (including family, friends, or colleagues) without speaking to us first. Sharing privileged communications can waive the privilege.
• Avoid discussing the details of your case on social media. Even vague posts can be used against you.
• Use the Clio portal or your personal email to communicate with us—never your work email or work devices, as your employer may have access.
• If anyone contacts you about your legal matter (the opposing party, their lawyer, or an investigator), do not respond. Let us know and we will handle it.

Transparency around billing is important to us. Your retainer agreement contains the specifics of your fee arrangement, tailored to your particular matter.

• Invoices are sent through the Clio portal. You will receive a notification when a new invoice is available.
• Payments can be made through Clio by credit card or e-transfer.
• For questions about your fee arrangement, invoices, or payment plans, reach out to Kirsten.
• There may be disbursements (filing fees, expert reports, process serving) billed separately. Your retainer outlines how these are handled.
• Please keep your account in good standing. Outstanding accounts may affect our ability to continue working on your matter.