We Specialize In
Franchise Law
Franchise agreements are one of the most important parts of starting or growing your franchised business. They set the tone for your entire relationship with the franchisor, and they carry long-term commitments and responsibilities that can affect every aspect of how you operate.
Our role is to make sure nothing slips through the cracks and that you step into your franchise knowing exactly where you stand.
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-Reviewing your Franchise Disclosure Document to ensure transparency and compliance
-Reviewing your Franchise Agreement to highlight risks, obligations, and long-term implications
-Reviewing your franchised location’s lease and any ancillary documents that may impact your operations
-Liaising directly with the franchisor on your behalf, when needed, to ensure clarity and fairness
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Franchising is our niche. It’s what sets Cypher Law apart from most other boutique firms. Our Founder, Sanchita Chawla, brings unique expertise, having spent seven years leading the legal franchising department for one of the largest franchisors in the country. That experience means we understand the franchisor’s perspective just as well as the franchisee’s—and we use that insight to protect your interests.
Franchise law in Canada can be complex, and it’s critical to fully understand your rights and obligations under the legislation before moving forward. While franchisors—especially large, sophisticated ones—often provide their agreements and documents in standardized formats that aren’t easily changed, that doesn’t mean your review is any less important. On the contrary, it’s vital to have an experienced lawyer carefully walk you through every clause, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to and can avoid surprises later.
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We’re realistic and transparent with our clients. The truth is, franchisors rarely make major changes to their agreements for individual franchisees. These documents are often standardized to maintain consistency across the brand as it grows. But even if the terms aren’t negotiable, understanding them fully is non-negotiable.
That’s where we come in. For franchisees, we make sure you understand your obligations, your rights, and the risks before you sign. We’ll point out the details that could impact you in practice, not just in theory, and help you enter into your franchise relationship with confidence and peace of mind.
For franchisors, we take a similarly practical approach. We help ensure that your franchise agreements, disclosure documents, and policies are clear, enforceable, and compliant with Ontario law. We focus on protecting your brand, minimizing risk, and providing guidance that supports scalable, consistent operations across your franchise network.
In both cases, our goal is the same: to provide clarity, actionable advice, and peace of mind, so you can focus on growing and operating your business with confidence.
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We guide franchisees through every stage of the process, ensuring your investment is protected. From reviewing the Franchise Disclosure Document and Franchise Agreement to assessing leases and ancillary documents, we make sure you fully understand the long-term obligations and risks, and we advocate on your behalf where necessary.
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We also advise franchisors on structuring and maintaining compliant, enforceable, and scalable franchise systems. This includes drafting or reviewing franchise agreements, preparing and updating FDDs, assisting with franchisee onboarding, and providing guidance on dispute resolution, terminations, and compliance. By working with us, franchisors gain clarity, minimize risk, and ensure their brand and system operate efficiently and legally.
Corporate & Commercial Law
Running a business means navigating contracts, agreements, and relationships every single day. These documents aren’t just paperwork, they’re the foundation of your business and the key to protecting your future. At Cypher Law,
we take the time to understand your goals so we can make sure every agreement reflects your best interests and sets you up for success. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a growing company, we’re here to provide thoughtful, practical advice you can rely on.
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Acquisition of a business – Shares and Assets
Sale of a business – Shares and Assets
Commercial Lease drafting and review
Shareholder and partnership Agreements
Incorporations and minute book creation
Real Estate Law
Buying or selling a home is one of life’s biggest milestones. It’s exciting, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming—all at the same time. At Cypher Law, we want to make the process feel less stressful and more seamless, so you can focus on the excitement of moving forward.
We know every situation is unique, whether you’re purchasing your very first condo, selling a family home full of memories, or managing multiple properties as an investor. No matter your experience level, our role is to make sure you feel supported, informed, and protected from start to finish.
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For most people, real estate transactions are among the largest financial decisions they’ll ever make. That’s why we believe in being present, responsive, and approachable every step of the way. You’ll never be left in the dark, and you’ll always know that your lawyer is directly involved in the process.
At Cypher Law, we treat every file with the same level of care and diligence—because behind every transaction is a family, an individual, or an investor making an important life move.
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Buying a home is an extremely important and pivotal moment for all of us and we, at Cypher Law, want to be there for you, every step of the way!
Whether you are an experienced buyer or a first-time buyer, we want to make sure that you have all the information needed to proceed with your transaction.
We will assist you with all aspects of:
Agreement of Purchase and Sale
Extension of closing
Land Transfer Tax
Mortgage
Survey
Title Insurance
& More!
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Selling your first or one of your multiple properties can feel amazing and we, at Cypher Law, are here to ensure that you meet all legal requirements in the selling process!
Whether you are an experienced real estate investor or selling your first property, we can help you along the way.We will assist you with all aspects of:
Agreement of Purchase and Sale
Extension of closing
Mortgage Discharge
Property Tax
Survey
Utilities
& More!
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We specialize in guiding clients through the complexities of pre-construction real estate transactions. Our services include:
Contract review and negotiation – analyzing builder agreements, occupancy clauses, and deposit structures to protect your interests.
Tarion and warranty compliance – ensuring the builder complies with Ontario warranty requirements and your rights are safeguarded.
Closing adjustments – verifying financial statements, closing costs, and ensuring proper allocation of deposits and fees.
Assignment and resale transactions – advising on assignments or transfers of pre-construction units, including FTHB incentives, HST rebates, and tax implications.
Mortgage and financing coordination – reviewing lender terms and agreements, including private mortgages and construction financing.
Dispute resolution – addressing builder delays, construction deficiencies, or non-compliance issues.
Risk mitigation strategies – advising on contractual loopholes, unexpected fees, or builder clauses that could create future liability.
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We provide practical, business-focused guidance for all commercial real estate matters. Our services include:
Commercial lease drafting and review – ensuring favorable terms for tenants, landlords, and investors.
Purchases and sales of commercial property – structuring acquisitions and dispositions to minimize risk and maximize value.
Due diligence – reviewing title, easements, zoning, municipal approvals, and environmental compliance.
Negotiation with landlords and sellers – advocating for favorable terms, renewal options, rent escalations, and tenant improvement clauses.
Lease assignments and subleasing – advising on obligations and approvals to transfer leases or sublet space.
Financing and corporate structure advice – ensuring commercial transactions are aligned with your corporate objectives.
Risk management – identifying and addressing potential liability in contracts, agreements, and property rights.