Transfer on Death Deed New York: Protect Your Assets
If you are a Canadian who owns a condo, vacation home, or investment property in New York, estate planning may feel simple until you ask one practical question. What happens to that property when you die? For many cross-border families, the old answer was probate, delay, paperwork, and a plan that often did not line […]
Bill C-3 Canada: How the Citizenship Act May Affect You in 2026 | Mayo Law
For years, a frustrating rule in Canadian citizenship law created a group of people known as “Lost Canadians.” Bill C-3, a recent and critical amendment to Canada’s Citizenship Act, is designed to fix this. If you have Canadian heritage but were previously denied citizenship because of where you or your parents were born, this change […]
Ontario Incorporation Checklist 2026: Steps, Costs, Timelines
Incorporating in Ontario is mechanically easy. The hard part is choosing a structure that will not break under revenue, partners, investors, or cross-border activity. Step 1: Pick the right jurisdiction Ontario incorporation is usually the default if you operate primarily in Ontario and want a clean local setup. Federal incorporation is usually worth it if […]
A Guide to Stock Purchase Agreements for 2026
When you're buying or selling a business, the Stock Purchase Agreement (SPA) is the single most important document in the entire transaction. It’s the legal blueprint that dictates every term of the deal. For entrepreneurs navigating a company sale or an acquisition, especially across the U.S.-Canada border, getting this agreement right is non-negotiable. At Mayo […]
Shareholders’ Agreements: 12 Clauses That Prevent Founder Wars
A shareholders’ agreement is the backbone of a multi-owner company, setting the stage for smooth operations by defining decision-making authority, ownership, and exit strategies. By addressing issues like equity vesting and board composition early on, companies can avoid slow-motion litigation and ensure governance remains robust.
Arbitration in Canada: Domestic, Ontario Framework, International Arbitration, and Enforcement
Arbitration in Canada sits at the intersection of contract law, procedural autonomy, and judicial restraint. Canadian courts are strongly pro-arbitration. The governing philosophy is party autonomy, minimal court intervention, and enforceability of awards. The system is stable, predictable, and aligned with global standards. Overview of Arbitration in Canada Arbitration is private dispute resolution based on […]
Why Founder Vesting is Your “Prenup” for Business
On day one, equity splits feel like a formality. Everyone is excited, the vision is clear, and the vibes are high. But reality has a habit of intervening. Founders burn out, roles shift, or a pivot creates a rift in the team. Especially when the startup doesn’t scale fast enough to support its founders, and […]
The Ultimate Guide to Ontario Business Structures
Choosing the right business structure in Ontario affects liability, taxes, and growth. This guide explains sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, cooperatives, nonprofits, and more.
Visa Overstay in the U.S.: Myths, Facts, and What You Need to Know
For individuals who have remained in the United States beyond their authorized stay, understanding the legal consequences of a visa overstay is essential to protecting future immigration plans
New U.S. Immigration Rule: Do You Need to Register if You Stay More Than 30 Days?
A new federal directive may require certain non-citizens—including undocumented individuals and Canadian visitors—to register with U.S. immigration authorities if they remain in the country for more than 30 days