Real estate law is a specialized area with its own set of rules, regulations, and key players. If you’re looking for a real estate law clerk in the Toronto area, pay attention to these five traits:
- Knowledge of real estate law. Real estate law covers not only the basics of property law, but also issues of local politics, zoning, water and mineral rights, and more. A real estate law clerk with prior experience in real estate, whether in law or in other capacities, will already have a “mental map” of the complex interconnections that comprise this area of law.
- Knowledge of the real estate community. Just as the best litigation support team members know the staff in local courts, a great real estate law clerk will be familiar with “who’s who” in the real estate community. They’ll be familiar with the most well known and busiest realtors, inspectors, surveyors, and government office staff, as well as acquainted with other lawyers and clerks who practice real estate law.
- Commitment to confidentiality. Confidentiality is key in any area of law. In real estate, however, the best legal support staff make confidentiality a positive goal. When large parcels of land or the derelict house on the corner are finally sold, it becomes an item of gossip in the neighborhood. Choose a law clerk who doesn’t join in any conversation that might compromise a client’s information.
- Strong research and writing skills. Real estate law thrives on transactions: contracts, deeds, texts of building regulations and zoning ordinances, and similar documentation. A great real estate law clerk thrives on handling the research and writing necessary to a strong real estate law practice, and produces superior results.
- Superior organizational skills. The interconnecting web of agencies, offices, and organizations involved in any real estate transaction require law clerks to have superior organizational skills in order to keep track of documentation and ensure all deadlines are met.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters place law clerks and legal support professionals throughout the greater Toronto area. To find a great team member who knows your practice area, contact us today.