LEGAL SERVICES
LEGAL SUPPORT WITHOUT THE JARGON.
Corporate law, real estate, wills and estates, and buying or selling a business. You'll understand what you're signing and why before you sign it.
LEGAL SERVICES
LEGAL SUPPORT WITHOUT THE JARGON.
Corporate law, real estate, wills and estates, and buying or selling a business. You'll understand what you're signing and why before you sign it.
SERVING ENTREPRENEURS SINCE 2008 / BUSINESS, ESTATE & REAL ESTATE LAW / LEGAL, TAX AND ACCOUNTING IN ONE FIRM / LICENSED IN ONTARIO
Gauvreau provides legal services for business owners: incorporation and corporate structure, agreements, minute books, wills, probate, and real estate.
Our legal team explains what each document does and why it says what it says, in language you can repeat to somebody else. The tax and accounting teams sit in the same firm, so documents get drafted to a plan those teams have already worked out rather than around assumptions.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Good intentions won't protect your business.
With no shareholder agreement, the default rules decide what happens when shareholders stop agreeing. A will drafted before the corporation applies an old plan to a business it never contemplated. A lease signed without reading the renewal clause gets read properly in year five.
None of it feels urgent while things are going well. That's exactly the problem: these documents exist for the version of events nobody is planning for.
And it isn't only the business that's exposed when they don't hold. It's the people who depend on it.
Wouldn't you rather find the gaps now than have them explain later?
LEGAL SERVICES
Proactive legal support to protect you, your business, and your family.
INCORPORATION AND CORPORATE STRUCTURE
We advise on whether incorporation is right, and action it. That covers the share structure, the directors and officers, the registrations, and the opening records. Our tax team works out what the structure should be and we draft and file it, which is why it gets set up for where you're taking the business rather than only for today.
- Share classes drafted to the structure the tax team recommends, with family compensation, a holding company and a future sale in mind
- Federal or provincial, and extra-provincial registration where you operate in more than one
- Organizing the company: by-laws, directors and officers, shares issued by resolution
- The minute book set up properly from day one
- Corporate restructures where the current setup no longer fits
SHAREHOLDER AND PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS
The agreement that decides what happens when something changes. How shares transfer, what needs unanimous approval, how a dispute gets resolved, what happens if someone wants out, dies, or stops contributing. We draft them, and we negotiate them when you're on the other side of one.
- Share transfer rules, and who can buy
- Which decisions need unanimous shareholder approval
- Dispute resolution, and exit on death, disability, or departure
- Shareholder loans, and what the agreement says about repayment
- Partnership agreements covering roles, ownership, and how profit and loss are split
BUSINESS PURCHASE AND SALE
Buying or selling a business is a legal transaction with tax consequences attached to almost every clause. We handle the legal side end to end: the letter of intent, the share or asset purchase agreement, the due diligence searches, the statutory filings, and closing. Where a shareholder or partnership agreement is already in place, we work out what it requires before anything gets signed.
MINUTE BOOKS AND CORPORATE RECORDS
Your minute book is the record of who owns the company, who directs it, and what it has formally decided. It falls out of date: a director changes, shares move, a dividend is declared, and the paperwork doesn't follow. It usually matters at the worst possible moment, when a buyer's lawyer, a lender, or CRA asks to see it. We bring it current and then keep it current, which is the part that saves money.
WILL AND ESTATE PLANNING
Drafting the will, including the complicated ones: a corporation, a holding company, a blended family, one child in the business and one who isn't. The point is that it says what you intend and works with the structure you actually have, rather than being drafted around a simplified version of it. These are not easy conversations to start, and we don't rush them. We'll go through what happens under your current will before suggesting a new one.
FAMILY TRUSTS
Preparing the trust deed and the documents that go with it, with the beneficiaries, trustees, powers, and terms set up to do what the plan requires. A deed that doesn't match the plan is the most common reason a trust turns out not to permit the thing it was created for. We draft it alongside the tax work rather than after it, so the deed reflects the plan rather than approximating it.
ESTATE ADMINISTRATION AND PROBATE
Applying to the court to probate a will, and guiding executors and beneficiaries through settling the estate. That covers the application itself, the inventory and valuation of assets, dealing with the institutions holding them, and the distribution to beneficiaries. An executor is usually a family member who has never done this before and is doing it while grieving. We take the process off them, answer their questions as they come up, and say what happens next before they have to ask.
REAL ESTATE LAW
Purchase and sale agreements, private mortgages, and leases, for commercial and residential property, including property held inside a corporation or a holding company. We draft them, review them before you sign, and close the transaction. On a lease we act for either side, and on a private mortgage we work with the lender's counsel on registration.
TESTIMONIALS
WHAT CLIENTS SAY
"Gauvreau are hands down, the leader in the accounting industry. We’ve had past accountants that simply do that, accounting. Then you’ve got Bob and his team, where they go above and beyond the call of duty. They truly care how your business is doing, and have become a pinnacle driver of how we run our business, look at numbers, and plan for our future. They have an entire team available and the response time is second to none. We also love their offerings, from simple taxes, to legal advice, and all the way up to an option of a CFO program where we have monthly meetings to look back, look at, and forecast our business and its numbers. They truly are a cut above the rest. Nothing else compares. Thank you!"
"When new legislation came down the pipe for our industry, I had to speak with several firms before finding Gauvreau and being introduced to Tyler Powers. Tyler was the only one who could confidently answer my questions. I have been extremely impressed with the level of service he and the team have been able to provide from a tax planning and bookkeeping perspective. As a busy entrepreneur with an evolving business, it's crucial to be able to know the team behind you not only cares, but is one you can trust who can help you make informed & confident decisions throughout your year and day to day. Every interaction I've had with any member of the team at Gauvreau has always been pleasant, prompt and professional. Would happily recommend, keep up the great work everyone!"
"We have been clients of Gauvreau for several years and have consistently received exceptional service. Their team takes the time to answer questions clearly, provide practical guidance, and ensure everything is handled accurately and efficiently. We appreciate their attention to detail, expertise, and commitment to client service. It is reassuring to work with a firm we can trust for both our personal and business accounting needs. We are grateful for the support and advice they have provided over the years and would confidently recommend them to anyone seeking experienced and dependable accounting professionals."
"I cannot even put into words how appreciative I am of this firm. I have NO IDEA what on Earth I was doing without them before. They truly and genuinely care about hoping you and your business, and your money. The organization of all the Departments is great! I feel SO confident having my finances in their hands. They have spent days and hours with me going over everything to make sure I know exactly what is going on. They have dug deep for me to try to make sure I was taken care of. Thank you so much!"
"Started using Gauvreau over a year ago to help set-up a corporation and then to do my personal and corporate tax returns. My main point of contact has been Tyler Powers and I cannot say enough positive things about this firm and person. Starting a corporation and working through the financial statements and tax returns is supposed to be overwhelming, but with the support of Tyler and the team at Gauvreau, it’s been a breeze. Anytime I have concerns or questions, Tyler makes it easy for me to reach out and alleviate any stress I had, which allowed me to focus on my business and not worry about the numbers. I highly recommend Gauvreau for any accounting, tax or even legal needs. Extremely happy client!!"
"We’ve had a fantastic experience working with Gauvreau! As new business owners navigating finances and taxes can feel overwhelming, but the entire team has been incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive every step of the way. They take the time to ensure everything is handled properly and efficiently, giving us confidence and peace of mind. Their proactive approach, clear communication, and attention to detail truly set them apart. We highly recommend them to any business looking for a reliable and professional accounting partner. "
"I was referred by a client and friend of mine, who highly recommended Bob and his team to help me first with bookkeeping, which has now turned into accounting that we're moving over as well as they've set us up in record time. Knowing I can lean on them for speed of execution in the legal and accounting space, it's something after 17 years of business I am NOT accustomed too. I'm building our a multi million dollar real estate portfolio and have been looking for someone able to advise on strategy and actually execute. Knowing I have someone reliable and who can move with speed in the investing world (for me anyways) is HUGE! ;-)"
"I LOVE Gauvreau! Bob Gauvreau is an expert in his field and he seeks out like-minded professionals to work for/with him. The entire staff are exceptional, from the smiling front desk staff to the support staff who respond promptly to any inquiry you may have. I deal with Tyler Powers who is amazing and quick to respond and give advice but other colleagues also deal with Gauvreau and have had the same experience. Their knowledge is extensive and they love to share what they know. I cannot recommend them enough!"
"As a small business, numbers are everything to us. Bob and his team go above and beyond what you’d expect from an accountant or bookkeeping firm. They offer a turn-key solution for us that has so much value that our financials are no longer a major burden or stress to us. If you own a business I highly recommend talking with Gauvreau, they can help identify where you are succeeding and where you could make some much needed change. It might just save your business!"
"Gauvreau Accounting and Tax Law Advisory is a one-stop-shop for all my Corporate, Personal and Estate matters. Responsiveness and communication is consistently exceptional, matched with the upmost professionalism, advice, accuracy and deliverables for all my accounting needs. I've worked with so many members of the team over the years and I'm forever impressed and grateful."
"Expert advice, clear explanations and sensible advisory services. Tyler helped me out of a multi-year tax complication and set me on the right path to fixing my situation. No rush, Tyler took the time to make sure that I actually understood my situation and how the decisions I make will impact me in the future. I have switched over to Gauvreau for all my accounting services in the future."
“I've been working with the team at Gauvreau for a few years with my business and personally. Specifically working with Tyler Powers has been exceptional. The service is second to none. They consistently go above and beyond to provide me with all I need to run my business. I trust them wholly and would highly recommend them."
"It has been a pleasure to work with the team at Gauvreau. From my first meeting they were all very helpful and knowledgeable. They had insightful ideas about how to do things more efficiently and cost effectively. I can most definitely say that the work at Gauvreau is absolutely flawless. They are very detail oriented and they always know what needs to be done. My experience leaves me with no hesitation to recommend them for any accounting needs."
“Working with Tyler Powers was excellent. He has a genuine interest in his clients as he took extra time to help answer questions and bring to light errors made by another accounting firm. I have high standards, especially with accounting as my field of study, and Tyler exceeds them all. I highly recommend Gauvreau.”
“We have used Gauvreau since opening our business and we cannot say enough good things. We work with Tyler Powers and he is extremely professional and goes above and beyond - emails are answered promptly, and accounting details run smoothly. Everyone is always friendly. We are very happy!”
"Gauvreau is an amazing team to be working with. From the time we started working with them it has been a very professional and valued experience. Bob and his team are very experienced with what they do and make sure that you are satisfied with their services through the entire process. Would highly recommend them to anyone!"
"I switched all my accounting to Gauvreau after having issues with a different accounting office. It has been one of my best choices for my business accounts. I work mostly with Jenn and she is absolutely fantastic, answers every question and goes above and beyond to help me with any issues I am having regarding my accounts. All interactions I have had with other members of their team have also been very positive. I 10/10 recommend Gauvreau."
"I find that since working with Gauvreau, they are very attentive to both my needs and business growth. They use innovative tools which makes my job of keeping track of my current state so much easier than I have ever experienced. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and are on top of all I could hope for in an accounting firm. I highly recommend this company."
"I've been working with Gauvreau for our organization's financial needs, and they have been amazing. The team is incredibly knowledgeable about bookkeeping and financial management. Communication with them is very easy. They're responsive, friendly, and always willing to address my questions or concerns promptly. Their fees are reasonable. I highly recommend them!"
"My experience with Gauvreau has been amazing, not only did they help me get my books back in order but also opened my eyes to all the benefits and value that come with have a professional accounting team on your side! Everyone that helps me from Robert's team is helpful, timely and always friendly! Highly recommended!"
"Tyler Powers has been helping with our accounting side of business & Jeff Fitzgerald has been helping us with a real estate transaction. Both parties have been amazing to deal with. Quick to answer & extremely tentative. Definitely look forward to continuing our business with Gauvreau in the future. Highly recommend."
"My income taxes were more complex than usual this year. Tyler Powers assisted me by going above and beyond to acquire the needed information. This was especially appreciated as I was supporting a very ill spouse at the same time as the tax returns were due. Tyler was also kind and reassuring and got the job done before the deadline."
"The team at Gauvreau is world-class!!! I was having a very stressful day dealing with banks & lawyers and I needed a tax document from them. Ashley answered the phone and was so incredibly positive and helpful - truly a breath of fresh air. It completely shifted the course of my evening. I am very grateful to be working with such a caring team."
"We have worked with Gauvreau Accounting for a number of years and have found all the staff to be pleasant, knowledgable and responsive to our needs in a prompt and professional manner. We have great confidence in Gauvreau Accounting and highly recommend their services."
"Excellent in their work. Easy to submit tax info. Friendly service and respond quickly to questions. Considering I have two home businesses they handle my taxes efficiently. I won’t go elsewhere"
"The Entire team at Gauvreau is top notch. They have made a massive difference in my business and completely changed our view on finances and operations. I would recommend Gauvreau to anyone in need of an excellent, experienced accounting team."
WHO THIS IS BUILT FOR
WHO WE DO THIS WORK FOR
✓ Owners incorporating, restructuring, or bringing in a shareholder
✓ New corporations that need a minute book set up properly, and existing ones where it has fallen behind
✓ Owners whose will predates the corporation, or whose business or family situation has changed since it was written
✓ Owners buying, selling, or leasing property, personally or through the business
✓ Owners buying or selling a business, on either side of the deal
✓ Anyone who wants a second set of eyes on an agreement before they sign it
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