VALCO Legal Clinic

Do you have legal questions or concerns related to your artistic practice? 

Visual Artists’ Legal Clinic of Ontario (VALCO)

A pro bono initiative between CARFAC Ontario and Torys LLP

All cases are subject to a conflict-of-interest check by Torys LLP. 

After submitting your VALCO forms, please allow up to 4-5 weeks* to obtain your requested summary legal advice.

*Please note that due to Torys LLP caseloads and availability of volunteer lawyers, this time frame may vary throughout the year, and at times the wait may be longer. For more information please contact us.

MEMBERS:

VALCO is a resource available only to members of CARFAC Ontario.

Sign into your Members' Portal and access:

• VALCO intake forms
• Free Resource Library

and more

VALCO will

answer your questions relating to:

• Copyright
• Commercial contracts
• Labour law
• Commercial lease for a studio
  
• Commercial lease for a gallery
  
• Tenants’ rights
• Incorporating as a business

VALCO may

answer your question relating to:

• Taxation including the Canada Revenue Agency

VALCO will not

answer your questions relating to:

• Family Law
• Criminal Law
• Estate Planning
• Legal matters that do not relate to your arts practice 

and will not

• Negotiate on behalf of CARFAC Ontario Members
  
• Provide legal representation to CARFAC Ontario Members
• Represent CARFAC Ontario Members in legal proceedings of any kind