Business Details
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Waterloo, ON
At SBM Law, we approach legal matters with a commitment to clarity, compassion, and client empowerment. Our practice focuses on real estate law, wills and estates, corporate and commercial law, and notary services, delivered in a relaxed yet professional environment. We prioritize open communication, ensuring clients understand every step of their transactions while avoiding surprises. With years of experience serving clients in Ontario, we combine technical expertise with personalized attention to deliver high-quality legal solutions at reasonable costs.Our team emphasizes proactive problem-solving, anticipating client concerns before they arise, and fostering trust through honesty and transparency. Whether guiding clients through property transactions, estate planning, or business matters, we remain dedicated to making complex legal processes accessible and stress-free.
Services
Real Estate Law
Wills and Estates Law
Corporate and Commercial Law
Notary Public
Estate Administration
Highlights and features
- We provide personalized legal guidance with over 15 years of combined experience in Ontario and Michigan law
- Our practice combines technical expertise with a compassionate, client-centered approach
- Transparent fee structures with no hidden costs or unexpected charges
- We specialize in preventing legal complications through proactive planning and communication
- Accessible team available to answer questions throughout every transaction
Services
Real Estate Law
Our real estate practice assists clients with residential and commercial property transactions across Ontario. We handle purchase, sale, and refinancing processes with a non-intimidating approach, offering continuous client support from initial agreements to post-closing resolutions. Our team ensures smooth transactions through prompt problem-solving and clear communication about legal requirements and timelines.
Wills and Estates Law
We specialize in creating customized wills and powers of attorney through a two-appointment process that prioritizes client intentions. Our estate planning services help prevent family conflicts and government asset distribution by documenting clear directives for property division, guardianship, and trustee appointments. We also assist executors with probate procedures and estate administration.
Corporate and Commercial Law
We support small businesses with formation, contracts, and succession planning tailored to Ontario's regulatory environment. Our services include entity selection, agreement drafting, and strategic guidance for business growth and intergenerational transfers. We focus on practical solutions that align with clients' operational needs and long-term objectives.
Notary Public
Our notary services verify document authenticity and signatures for legal purposes. We provide certified copies of original documents and administer oaths for affidavits, ensuring compliance with provincial verification standards. Appointments are required to maintain proper documentation control and client confidentiality during these formal processes.
Estate Administration
We guide executors through probate procedures and estate settlements when individuals pass away with or without wills. Our services include preparing court documentation, explaining distribution rules under Ontario law, and helping trustees fulfill their duties. We focus on minimizing administrative challenges during what can be an emotionally difficult time for families.
People
Sarah B. Manilla
Esq.
Sarah B. Manilla combines legal expertise with compassion, serving clients in Waterloo after practicing in Thunder Bay and articling in Windsor. A dual graduate of University of Windsor and University of Detroit Mercy law schools, she brings 14 years of cross-border legal experience to real estate, wills, and corporate matters.
Questions
What are the risks of using will kits?
Will kits often lead to unclear documentation requiring court interpretation, potentially causing expensive disputes. Professional drafting ensures your intentions are accurately captured and legally enforceable.
When is probate necessary?
Probate depends on asset type and value. Real estate with mortgages and large bank accounts typically require probate, while joint tenancy assets may bypass this process.
How does intestacy affect asset distribution?
Without a will, Ontario law dictates asset division based on family relationships, which may not reflect your preferences. Spouses, children, and other relatives receive specific shares by law.
What services require appointments?
All services require advance appointments, including notary public assistance. We do not accept walk-ins to ensure proper preparation and focused client attention.
Do you handle legal disputes?
We specialize in transactional work and do not represent clients in litigation. We can provide referrals for family law, employment law, or complex corporate disputes.
