Business Details
40 Years
experience
Experienced Legal Representation in North Vancouver
Since 1986, Lakes & Whyte has been a trusted full-service law firm serving North Vancouver and the North Shore. Our practice areas include litigation and dispute resolution, wills and estates, real estate, business law, and employment law. We pride ourselves on delivering straightforward, client-focused legal advice tailored to individual needs. With decades of collective experience, our team of dedicated lawyers combines deep local knowledge with a commitment to achieving optimal outcomes for every client. We maintain a strong tradition of personalized service while adapting to evolving legal landscapes, ensuring clients receive both continuity and innovation in their legal representation. 
Services
Litigation
Wills & Estates
Real Estate Law
Business Law
Employment Law
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of legal experience in North Vancouver
- Our team provides personalized strategies for complex legal matters
- We serve clients in multiple languages including Italian and French
- We maintain a client-centric approach with transparent communication
- Our lawyers have extensive courtroom and negotiation experience
What people say
Professional and caring
Successful case conclusion
Always in my corner
Thorough and transparent
Excellent communication
Services
Litigation
Our litigation practice handles commercial and personal disputes at all court levels. We represent clients in business conflicts, personal injury claims, and estate matters with a strategic approach focused on achieving favorable outcomes through negotiation or trial. Our team's extensive courtroom experience and deep understanding of procedural law ensure clients receive effective representation tailored to their specific legal challenges.
Wills & Estates
We provide comprehensive estate planning services including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Our lawyers guide clients through succession planning and estate administration, ensuring assets are protected and distributed according to their wishes. We combine legal expertise with compassionate counsel to address complex family dynamics and tax considerations while maintaining compliance with evolving estate laws.
Real Estate Law
Our real estate practice covers residential and commercial transactions, financing, and dispute resolution. We assist with property purchases, leasing agreements, and title disputes while navigating zoning regulations and construction issues. With specialized knowledge of North Shore property markets, we ensure transactions proceed smoothly while protecting clients' interests in both routine and complex real estate matters.
Business Law
We support businesses through all stages of development, offering legal counsel on formation, contracts, and corporate governance. Our services include merger and acquisition support, employment agreements, and risk management strategies. We work closely with entrepreneurs and established companies to create practical solutions that align with business objectives while maintaining regulatory compliance in today's dynamic commercial environment.
Employment Law
We represent both employers and employees in workplace disputes covering termination, severance, and human rights issues. Our practice includes drafting employment contracts, advising on compliance with labor standards, and resolving discrimination claims. We combine practical business understanding with thorough knowledge of employment legislation to protect clients' interests in both negotiated settlements and litigation proceedings.
People
John Lakes
Partner
John Lakes brings decades of legal experience to complex litigation and business law matters. He focuses on delivering practical solutions while maintaining strong client relationships through clear communication and strategic counsel.
John D. Whyte
Partner
John D. Whyte specializes in personal injury litigation with a proven track record in high-stakes cases. His client-focused approach combines compassionate support with aggressive advocacy to achieve favorable outcomes.
Clark T. Hartnett
Partner
Clark T. Hartnett handles commercial litigation and real estate disputes with extensive courtroom experience. He provides strategic legal guidance while maintaining a strong focus on client objectives and practical resolutions.
Jennifer P. Bednard
Associate
Jennifer P. Bednard practices in estate planning and real estate law. She combines technical expertise with personalized service to help clients navigate complex legal processes with confidence and clarity.
Giorgio Verdicchio
Associate
Giorgio Verdicchio focuses on business law and estate administration. He provides practical legal solutions while maintaining a client-centered approach that prioritizes clear communication and thorough understanding of client needs.
Questions
What areas of law does Lakes Whyte specialize in?
We specialize in litigation, wills and estates, real estate law, business law, and employment law.
Do you offer services outside North Vancouver?
While based in North Vancouver, we serve clients throughout the North Shore and West Vancouver regions.
How can I schedule a consultation?
Contact us via phone or email to arrange an initial consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.
Do you handle personal injury cases?
Yes, we represent clients in personal injury claims including motor vehicle accidents and slip-and-fall incidents.
Are your lawyers experienced in court proceedings?
Our team has extensive courtroom experience handling cases at all levels of British Columbia's judicial system.
Can you assist with business formation?
Yes, we provide comprehensive legal support for business incorporation, contracts, and corporate governance.
Reviews (5)
Levon James
Jun 25, 2020
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Critical:Professionalism,Responsiveness
Not producing results, poor comunication. Hard to get ahold of.
Not producing results, poor comunication. Hard to get ahold of.
Alex Goldkind
Jun 26, 2019
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Went there for a couple issues. Lawyers were very helpful and knowledgeable and went to great lengths to offer excellent advice. Would definitely recommend
Catherine B.
May 29, 2017
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Having now had to deal with two estate attorneys, I can easily say - beware of this one. The difference between the two was like day and night; the first, on Vancouver Island (Ian Izard), was exemplary. Regular communications, monthly accounting's and frequent telephone calls to advise and listen. It was a rather complicated estate and took over four years to settle. But it was handled with transparency and as efficiently as Probate Court allowed. This attorney however was the exact opposite. Although it was s very straightforward will with little complexity, there was no communication except
Randy S.
Feb 02, 2017
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I've never had to use a Lawyer except for my will, mom's estate, and normal operations for my business. And then I try to sell my house. Signed contract in hand and the buyer decides to renege. I was referred to John and he was insightful, friendly, and very helpful. We did more than just talk about right and wrong, we talked about time and outcome.We agreed on a good course of action that I'm happy with. I recommend you call John first for your legal needs.
Richard W.
Nov 05, 2013
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I've been involved in a litigation matter against these guys for about a year now. They are a complete joke. They lost against us and were berated by the judge in the process. If you want your litigation completely fumbled, go with these guys.
