In the recent endorsement by Justice Alex Pazaratz in the case of Comeau v. Fox, 2025 ONSC 4318 (CanLII), lawyers are cautioned against holding a client’s signed Notice of Change in Representation to self-represent in escrow to be used at a later date, if and when the lawyer wishes to end the retainer.
This case highlights fundamental principles about legal ethics, client rights and the integrity of the court process.