In Ontario, Canada, a **real estate attorney**—commonly referred to as a **real estate lawyer**—plays a crucial role in the process of buying, selling, or leasing property. These legal professionals specialize in property law and assist clients with various aspects of real estate transactions. Below are the main duties and responsibilities of a real estate lawyer in Ontario:

### 1. **Property Transactions (Buying and Selling)**
– **Contract Review and Negotiation:** Real estate lawyers review purchase and sale agreements to ensure that the terms are clear and legally binding. They also negotiate on behalf of their clients to ensure their interests are protected.
– **Title Search and Verification:** Lawyers conduct a title search to ensure that the property has a clear title, meaning there are no outstanding liens or claims against it.
– **Mortgage and Financing Assistance:** A real estate lawyer reviews mortgage documents to ensure that all conditions are met and that the terms are fair for the buyer. They may also assist in securing financing and advising on loan terms.
– **Closing Process:** They manage the closing process, ensuring that funds are properly disbursed, property ownership is transferred, and all necessary documents are registered with the Ontario Land Registry.

### 2. **Leasing and Landlord-Tenant Matters**
– **Lease Agreements:** Lawyers help in drafting and reviewing lease agreements for commercial and residential properties, ensuring that terms and conditions comply with Ontario’s **Residential Tenancies Act** or **Commercial Tenancies Act**, as applicable.
– **Dispute Resolution:** They assist in resolving disputes between landlords and tenants, such as eviction procedures, rent arrears, or maintenance issues.

### 3. **Land Development and Zoning**
– **Zoning and Land Use Regulations:** Real estate lawyers provide advice regarding zoning laws, land use regulations, and how they affect the development or redevelopment of a property.
– **Development Agreements:** They assist developers with securing agreements with municipalities, obtaining permits, and navigating the complexities of land development in Ontario.

### 4. **Estate Planning and Real Estate**
– **Wills and Estates Involving Property:** If a property is part of a deceased person’s estate, real estate lawyers handle the transfer of property to heirs, ensuring that all legal requirements for property transfer are met, including probate.

### 5. **Property Disputes and Litigation**
– **Boundary and Ownership Disputes:** A real estate lawyer can assist clients with resolving disputes over property boundaries, encroachments, or claims of adverse possession.
– **Construction Liens:** If there are issues related to unpaid contractors or construction liens, a real estate lawyer can help enforce lien rights or resolve disputes.

### 6. **Regulatory Compliance**
– Real estate lawyers ensure that all real estate transactions comply with Ontario’s property laws and regulations, including the **Land Transfer Tax Act**, the **Condominium Act**, and the **Real Estate and Business Brokers Act**.

### 7. **Closing Documents and Registrations**
– After a transaction is complete, the lawyer will ensure the transfer of title is properly registered, which involves filing the necessary documents with the **Ontario Land Registry Office**.

### 8. **Tax Implications**
– Real estate lawyers can advise clients on the tax implications of real estate transactions, including issues related to **HST**, **capital gains tax**, and **land transfer taxes** in Ontario.

### Legal Requirements for Real Estate Lawyers in Ontario:
– **Licensed to Practice:** The lawyer must be licensed by the **Law Society of Ontario (LSO)**.
– **Experience with Ontario Real Estate Laws:** Real estate lawyers must be well-versed in Ontario-specific property law, including any recent changes in legislation.

### How to Find a Real Estate Lawyer in Ontario:
– **Referrals:** Ask for referrals from friends, family, or your real estate agent.
– **Online Directories:** Use the **Law Society of Ontario's Lawyer and Paralegal Directory** or local bar association directories to find qualified real estate lawyers.
– **Consultations:** Many real estate lawyers offer free or low-cost consultations where you can discuss your needs and get a sense of their expertise.

In summary, real estate lawyers in Ontario play a vital role in ensuring property transactions are smooth, legal, and secure. Whether you're buying a home, selling a property, or dealing with landlord-tenant disputes, a real estate lawyer is an essential advisor to help navigate the complex legal landscape of real estate law in Ontario.