Solving Human Issues,
Not Just Legal Problems.

Life doesn’t fit into a legal file.
Your legal support should see the whole picture.

Based in Ottawa. Here for Ontario.
A different kind of legal experience
Personal counsel.
Practical solutions.

Behind every legal question,
there’s a life moving forward.
We’re here for both.

We’ve reimagined legal support around you. A network of independent lawyers, a more flexible way to work together, and clear advice for the decisions ahead.

Get to know HCLS

Whatever comes next,
let’s make it clearer.

All services & pricing
A father and child sharing a quiet momentFamily Law

Separation, parenting, support, and the agreements that shape your future. Understand your options and move ahead with a plan that reflects your family.

  • Separation & divorce
  • Parenting arrangements
  • Child & spousal support
  • Marriage & cohabitation agreements
Explore family law
Illustrative scene of a parent reassuring a child on a park benchChild Protection

When a children’s aid society becomes involved with your family, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Get clear guidance and an advocate who understands what is at stake.

  • Children’s aid society involvement
  • Court proceedings
  • Your rights & responsibilities
  • Legal Aid certificate matters
Explore child protection
Illustrative scene of a couple reviewing home closing documents with a lawyerReal Estate

Buying, selling or refinancing a home brings important decisions. Discuss the property, paperwork and timing with a lawyer who can explain the next steps.

  • Buying & selling
  • Refinancing
  • Changes in ownership
  • Closing preparation
Explore real estate
Illustrative scene of an older couple discussing plans with a lawyerWills & Estates

Make room for a conversation about the people and priorities that matter to you, and the planning documents and estate responsibilities that may need attention.

  • Wills
  • Powers of attorney
  • Planning reviews
  • Estate responsibilities
Explore wills & estates
Illustrative scene of a defence lawyer and client reviewing a case folder at a courthouseCriminal Law

Discuss the allegation, the evidence and the steps ahead with a lawyer who can help you understand your options.

  • Understanding the process
  • Reviewing disclosure
  • Preparing for court
  • Advice on next steps
Explore criminal law
A document being carefully reviewed before signingIndependent Legal Advice

Before you sign, understand the terms, the obligations, and what they mean for you. Get an independent perspective on a proposed agreement, with space to ask the questions that matter.

  • Separation agreements
  • Marriage contracts
  • Cohabitation agreements
  • Document review
Explore independent legal advice
Not sure what you need?Start with a conversation
Illustrative scene of a client consulting a lawyer by video from home
A conversation, on your terms.Legal support, wherever you are.

Less overhead.
More human.

Your kitchen table. Your lunch break. Our Ottawa or Toronto office. Legal support should work around your life.

Our digital-first approach makes room for what matters: a real connection with your lawyer, straightforward communication, and a plan you understand.

Remote by design. In person when you prefer.
Secure access to your case information.
The level of support that makes sense for you.
A practice built around people

Different perspectives.
Personal commitment.

A shared belief that your story deserves to be heard.

Meet the Member Network
Alexander W. Ostheimer-Lebeau

Alexander W. Ostheimer-Lebeau

Family & Child Protection Lawyer

Shawna-Kay M. Armstrong

Shawna-Kay M. Armstrong

Family Lawyer

Michael Silkstone

Michael Silkstone

Family, Real Estate, Wills & Estates and Criminal Lawyer

Oluwasegun R. Akinrinlade

Oluwasegun R. Akinrinlade

Family, Child Protection & Criminal Lawyer

Notice: Members are independent contractors and are not employees, associates, or agents of Home Counsel Legal Services (“HCLS”).

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Each Independent Contractor is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable, non-sublicensable, and non-assignable licence to use HCLS’s name, likeness, and branded materials solely for the purpose of identifying themselves as individuals providing family law services or independent legal advice through HCLS’ Platform as part of the HCLS Member Network. The Member Network serves as a legal aid network, acting as an online directory of independent legal professionals who access a suite of services provided by HCLS’ Platform to perform project-based legal work remotely on either an hourly or flat-fee basis. Members operate as freelancers who practice independently, not as part of an association or other relationship for the joint practice of law. Each lawyer is solely responsible for their own work product and business activities, to the exclusion of all other lawyers and the HCLS Member Network.

The right support.
At the right scale.

One question or a complex matter. Choose an approach that fits your needs, your comfort level, and your budget.

A little guidance.

Legal coaching & limited scope

You take the lead. Your lawyer helps with a strategy session, document review, or a specific part of your matter.

Explore focused support

A defined next step.

Flat-fee packages

A clear scope for a particular milestone, from an agreement to a divorce application. Understand the cost before you begin.

View service packages

Someone in your corner.

Full representation

An advocate to guide your matter through negotiations, court proceedings, and the decisions along the way.

Explore representation

A few things
you might be
wondering.

More answers
Where do I start?

You can explore our services, complete a secure intake form, or simply contact us. We’ll learn about your situation, check whether we can assist, and help you choose the right next step.

Can we work together remotely?

Yes. HCLS is built around flexible, digital-first legal support for people across Ontario. Meet with your lawyer remotely and arrange document sharing directly with your lawyer. If you prefer to meet in person, our Ottawa office is available by appointment.

Are initial consultations free?

Initial consultations are a paid service. They are an opportunity to discuss your circumstances and receive substantive guidance from a lawyer. Visit our services page for consultation options and published pricing.

Do you accept Legal Aid certificates?

HCLS provides an intake pathway for Legal Aid certificate holders. Complete the Legal Aid intake so we can review your certificate and matter. Assistance is subject to the certificate, conflicts checks, and availability.

In their own words.

Read reviews on Google

I always felt supported, heard, and respected. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer who shows both strength and compassion.

Teena, Google review

You listened to me carefully, answered my questions clearly, and provided me with a lot of help and guidance throughout my divorce case. I truly appreciate your professionalism, patience, and support.

Madina, Google review

I had a wonderful experience for my first time using a lawyer. Alexander was very kind and accommodating and explained everything very well. I will be going back for sure, should I require a lawyer again. I highly recommend this legal service!

Allison, Google review

I am very grateful to the law firm for all their work. I didn't really believe my daughter would get her rights, but here everything was done so well. They supported me until the very end. I highly recommend this law firm.

Amechou, Google review (translated and edited)

My questions were answered. He knew exactly how to respond to my worries. He was very very helpful

Susane, Google review

The Network’s Associations & Affiliations

Law Society of OntarioLegal Aid OntarioCounty of Carleton Law Association

Your next chapterstarts with a conversation.

You don’t need to have all the answers. Tell us where you are, and we’ll help you find a way forward.