Family Law
SMP Law knows the fear and anxiety that can be present when dealing with the various aspects of Family Law. SMP Law will inform and advise you through the maze of the various complicated issues in Family Law with cost effective solutions made SiMPle.
Estate Law
SMP Law recognizes that Estate law is an emotionally charged area of law and we will assist you through the maze of your Estate Law issues with legal guidance made SiMPle. SMP Law approaches Estate Law in a manner that ensures each client feels that his or her interests have been effectively represented.

Phone: 905 565 9494
E-mail: shawnp@smplaw.ca
As the lawyer at SMP Law, Shawn oversees everything on your file from the initial meeting to the closing summary letter of your file.
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Shawn M. Philbert
Lawyer

Phone: 905 565 9494
E-mail: emmanuelb@smplaw.ca
Emmanuel’s previous experience as a lawyer in the Philippines has strengthened his ability to prepare client files, legal research, and legal drafting for SMP Law.
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Emmanuel Bragat
Senior Law Clerk

Phone: 905 565 9494
E-mail: pedro@smplaw.ca
Pedro’s previous experience as a tax lawyer for the Peruvian government has assisted his ability to help prepare of all of your financial documents for SMP Law.
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Pedro Obregon
Senior Law Clerk

Phone: 905 565 9494
E-mail: lorrieh@smplaw.ca
Lorrie is SMP Law’s Office Manager, and will spend as much time as you need to ensure you understand SMP Law’s commitment to focusing on your needs and concerns.
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Lorrie Howse
Office Manager

Phone: 905 565 9494
E-mail: nataliep@smplaw.ca
Natalie Philbert’s diverse education and lengthy professional experience brings many skills to the firm. Her academic and employment background has provided her with a strong understanding of the legal profession.
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Natalie Philbert
Marketing Manager
I called Mr. Philbert as I felt I wasn't making progress with my original lawyer and mediation. From my initial conversation with Shawn I realized that a change of direction was needed. Shawn clearly explained his process and what the next steps were. After sending a letter to the opposing counsel I felt a sigh of relief and knew I was in good hands (I am a non-confrontational person and I needed someone to fight for me). Shawn is very strong and direct when communicating with opposing counsel and I feel well supported. He knows the law inside and out and how to apply it and can pivot quickly during court sessions (when needed) to the extent that the opposing counsel is steps behind. All that being said I also believe the team Shawn has put in place has been a huge advantage. His team is dedicated and passionate when we sit together to discuss strategy - literally everything stops and their focus and collaboration is amazing. I would recommend SMP in a heartbeat. Source: Google Review 5 stars
Shawn and his is SMP Team represented my family on two complex cases and through my experience his team was there to get us through these difficult times. One of the cases my father passed away several years ago and his place of Employment cut his severance and retirement short, which my Mother was the beneficiary. Shawn and his team empathized with my mother’s situation making her and us feel comfortable through the process during such a difficult time, especially after a loss. Shawn and his team are consummate professionals who handled my mother’s case with a great deal of care while being diligent, detailed oriented in their research and delivery to reward her a settlement outcome she deserved. My experience with Shawn is his Team has been truly golden as his team makes you feel super comfortable. They are about bringing best around bringing the human aspect and looking after the well-being of their clients first and providing valued results. In a recent case Shawn’s and his team demonstrated the same level of consistency and professionalism. I would recommend SMP Law for anyone who needs representation hands down. Source: Google Review 5 stars
SMP LAW was the most accommodating and empathetic experience I could’ve ever felt! They took my matter seriously from the first phone call and gave me an experience of confidence that they would have my best intention! Shawn Philbert is an exceptional lawyer and gentlemen, really making my first time dealing with everything from personal concerns with my mental and physical health through this league process. To keeping me in the loop with every single step we would take! Shawn defended not just my name, but defended my innocence as a person. Above anything I could have asked from him! Source: Google Review 5 stars
A Home Away From Home
Checkout what Will Yohana posted in the Newsletter has to say about a home away from home:
There’s something very special about having your own little getaway!
Think of how amazing it would be to have a spot to escape to so that you and your family could get away from it all and just relax.
There's been a huge increase in cottage sales during the pandemic as lockdowns prevented travel and offices shut down and shifted to remote work mode.
It’s also been difficult to rent cottages over the last couple of years as demand has skyrocketed. In response, many people decided to buy their own cottages to enjoy and/or rent out to others.
The market has been challenging but with a bit of planning, buying a cottage is a dream that can come true! Here are a few points to consider if you’re thinking of purchasing your own little piece of paradise:
Know Your Numbers
The rules for financing a cottage are quite a bit different than mortgaging a home so make sure you speak to a mortgage specialist before you start hunting around for a cabin in the woods.
Mind Your Motives
Determine whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy with family on the weekends, an investment property to rent out, or a retirement retreat that you can eventually move into and call home.
Location, Location, Location
Figure out how far you’re prepared to travel and whether or not you need year-round access. Once you’ve decided on a possible location, spend some time getting to know the area before you commit.
Rental Potential
Renting out your cottage when it’s not in use is a great way to cover your costs. Location is critical for renters so it’s important to be in a high-demand area that offers a wide range of amenities.
Co-Ownership
Purchasing your new getaway with friends or family means you can share the upkeep and expenses. Just make sure you agree on everything from day one so you can spend your time relaxing instead of arguing.
Fixer-Uppers
Renovating a “diamond in the rough” is a great way to get a foothold in the market. Major renovations often require permission though so make sure you’re familiar with local zoning rules and regulations.
Buying a home away from home is a huge decision so do your research, get your finances in order and seek professional advice before taking the plunge.
If you’re thinking about buying a cottage or any other type of recreational property but you’re not sure where to start, please don’t hesitate to get in touch so that we can plan out your next move!
Reach out to Will Yohana for more information will@willyohana.com or 519-593-3912.
Non Affiliation Disclaimer: Shawn M. Philbert Professional Corporation is not affiliated with, nor is it responsible for, the content and or services provided by Will Yohana, Hi.Tech Real Estate. The information provided herein is for the sole purpose of providing information to the reader. The reader acknowledges that Shawn M. Philbert Professional Corporation is not liable for any services, information and/or advice provided by Will Yohana and Hi.Tech Real Estate.
There’s something very special about having your own little getaway!
Think of how amazing it would be to have a spot to escape to so that you and your family could get away from it all and just relax.
There's been a huge increase in cottage sales during the pandemic as lockdowns prevented travel and offices shut down and shifted to remote work mode.
It’s also been difficult to rent cottages over the last couple of years as demand has skyrocketed. In response, many people decided to buy their own cottages to enjoy and/or rent out to others.
The market has been challenging but with a bit of planning, buying a cottage is a dream that can come true! Here are a few points to consider if you’re thinking of purchasing your own little piece of paradise:
Know Your Numbers
The rules for financing a cottage are quite a bit different than mortgaging a home so make sure you speak to a mortgage specialist before you start hunting around for a cabin in the woods.
Mind Your Motives
Determine whether you’re looking for a spot to enjoy with family on the weekends, an investment property to rent out, or a retirement retreat that you can eventually move into and call home.
Location, Location, Location
Figure out how far you’re prepared to travel and whether or not you need year-round access. Once you’ve decided on a possible location, spend some time getting to know the area before you commit.
Rental Potential
Renting out your cottage when it’s not in use is a great way to cover your costs. Location is critical for renters so it’s important to be in a high-demand area that offers a wide range of amenities.
Co-Ownership
Purchasing your new getaway with friends or family means you can share the upkeep and expenses. Just make sure you agree on everything from day one so you can spend your time relaxing instead of arguing.
Fixer-Uppers
Renovating a “diamond in the rough” is a great way to get a foothold in the market. Major renovations often require permission though so make sure you’re familiar with local zoning rules and regulations.
Buying a home away from home is a huge decision so do your research, get your finances in order and seek professional advice before taking the plunge.
If you’re thinking about buying a cottage or any other type of recreational property but you’re not sure where to start, please don’t hesitate to get in touch so that we can plan out your next move!
Reach out to Will Yohana for more information will@willyohana.com or 519-593-3912.
Non Affiliation Disclaimer: Shawn M. Philbert Professional Corporation is not affiliated with, nor is it responsible for, the content and or services provided by Will Yohana, Hi.Tech Real Estate. The information provided herein is for the sole purpose of providing information to the reader. The reader acknowledges that Shawn M. Philbert Professional Corporation is not liable for any services, information and/or advice provided by Will Yohana and Hi.Tech Real Estate.
Speed Limit Increases in Ontario!
For over a week now the speed limit has increased on some Ontario highways. In an article by the Toronto Sun, the locations of the speed limit increases are listed and the Minister of Transportation is quoted stated that the locations were chosen with safety in mind.
SMP Law – Parental Alienation Series Part 1
The concept of “Alienation” has a grounds for reversing parenting rights has been receiving increasing attention over the last few years. As stated in SMP Law’s post on parental alienation “What is Alienation?" a common theme of alienation is “a child is expressing extreme negative feelings about a parent that are not supported by their experiences”.
Happy Easter From SMP Law!
The team at SMP Law is wishing everyone a very Happy Easter!
Dream Homes Really Do Come True! Cloud Realty
It’s easy for homebuyers to get frustrated, especially in this market, so it’s important to start off with a solid plan and a positive mindset. Will Yohana shares a few points to consider before you head out hunting for homes.
Can children choose to vaccinate themselves if they are over 12?
Vaccinating against Covid continues to be a hotly debated topic. Protests continue to occur against covid vaccinations. What is certain is that people are clear in their decision on whether to vaccinate or not. What about when children are clear in their decision to vaccinate or not vaccinate?
Making Cents of Your Down Payment – Cloud Realty
Buying a home is exciting but saving up for it can be a challenge. Checkout what Will Yohana from Cloud Realty has to say about a down payment for your home.
SMP – Happy Birthday!
Our fearless leader has now reached a milestone - The SMP of SMP Law is now 50 Years Old! The entire staff of SMP Law is thrilled to wish Shawn a very happy birthday and cheers to a great year!
SMP Law – 2021 Year In Review
SMP Law summarizes some significant cases in 2021 in our annual Year In Review post. Find out more about how SMP Law works with their clients.
SMP Law and Black History Month
Although we are in Black History Month, I wanted to remind everyone that focusing on Black History should not be just one month but all year long. We need to continue to raise awareness of the historic acts of people of colour to begin to break down the embedded misconceptions of the history of our country.
Goal Setting Strategies – Cloud Realty
Checkout what Will Yohana from Cloud Realty and in their January 2022 Newsletter has to say about goal setting strategies.
Co-Parenting Courses – Should They be Mandatory?
As of January 4, 2022, in British Columbia, parents and other family members going through separation and divorce are required to take free online parenting courses prior to appearing in court.
SMP Law – Can I get a Divorce Right Away if my Spouse Cheated?
Being cheated on by your spouse is generally not a topic people like to think about. Covid and technology have made it more difficult than ever to cheat on your spouse. We think it will never happen to us. But what if it does and the marriage is not reconcilable and now you want a divorce?
SMP Law Wishes Everyone Happy Holidays!
SMP Law is wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday! Please be advised that SMP Law will be closed for the Christmas Holidays effective 12:00 p.m. on Friday December 17, 2021 through to 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
Making a Grand Entrance!
Checkout what Will Yohana from Cloud Realty and in their December 2021 Newsletter has to say about your foyer. Instead of just stumbling into a cluttered mess, why not make a grand entrance!
SMP Law and Going Back to Court In Person
The current guidelines indicate that civil appeals, criminal solicitor appeals and oral panel motions would return to in person attendance. Lawyers and self-represented people may appear virtually by zoom if they prefer. Check out SMP Law's tips on returning to court in person.
GIVE YOURSELF SOME CREDIT!
It’s essential to know your credit score before you start shopping for a home. The home of your dreams has finally hit the market! You anticipate it’ll be easy to get a mortgage but if your credit's not in great shape, your dream home may remain just a dream. Check out what you can do to help.
SMP Law – Update on Unconscionability
In 2020, SMP Law wrote a post about dividing property and SMP Law was successful in the Superior Court case where the court agreed with my client that it was unconscionable to award his spouse 50% of the property and assets. Instead she only received 10% of the assets and property that she was seeking.