Brightling & Watson Lawyers

06/04/2026

Have you ever noticed how a little clarity can go a long way when you’re making big decisions? I was chatting with a friend who just bought their first home in St. Thomas, and they mentioned how much smoother everything felt once they had someone local to walk them through the legal side. No confusion, no surprises, just straightforward answers.

What’s been your experience with real estate or estate planning? Did having someone who truly knows the area make a difference for you? Share your experiences - good or bad!

05/21/2026

It's funny how a simple conversation about buying or selling a home can suddenly remind you how many moving parts there are. From paperwork to deadlines, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing something important - especially if you’re juggling family or business at the same time. That’s why having someone local who knows the ropes (and the community) can make all the difference. If you’ve been through a real estate closing recently, what’s one thing you wish you’d known before starting? Let’s swap stories! Your advice and experiences could help someone else feel a little more prepared.

05/07/2026

Funny how the right conversation can make even the most complicated decisions feel straightforward. I was chatting with a neighbour recently about buying their first home, and it struck me how much peace of mind comes from having someone local guide you through the legal details—especially when life gets busy. Have you ever felt more confident tackling a big step because you had someone in your corner? Would love to hear your thoughts on what you look for in a legal advisor!

04/23/2026

Ever sit down to sign a big stack of paperwork and wonder if you’re missing something important? It’s a feeling a lot of people have especially when buying or selling a home. That’s why having someone local who can walk you through each step, answer your questions in plain language, and keep the process moving smoothly can make all the difference. If you’ve had an experience with a real estate closing (positive or otherwise), share how it went. What helped and what didn’t? We're curious to hear your stories from around St. Thomas and beyond.

12/23/2024

Reposted by popular demand (well one person asked for it, that’s about as popular as lawyers get). Your bill for my time in posting this is in the mail. Merry Christmas all!

05/31/2024

Congratulations to Monty Fordham on his Retirement!
After 46 years of practicing as a Barrister and Solicitor in the St. Thomas community, on May 31, 2024 Monty will enjoy a well-deserved retirement spending time with his wife, Susan, daughter, Alison, dog, Willow, and grandchildren. Aside from his time at his law office and in the courthouse, Monty has contributed to this community in more ways than can be listed. From his charitable volunteering, to sitting on many local Boards and Committees, to authoring the "Legal Business" column of This Month in Elgin for over 25 years, Monty is well known in the St. Thomas community for his thoughtfulness, willingness to help in any way he can, and his wonderful storytelling. Monty will surely be missed by his clients and colleagues alike as he graciously hands over the reins of his legal practice to Michael Brightling & Candace Watson, to whom he has provided mentorship, guidance, and wonderful opportunities as they have worked by Monty's side at Fordham & Brightling Lawyers.

All the best in your retirement Monty - you have certainly earned it!

Existing clients of Monty may reach out to Michael Brightling / Candace Watson at Brightling & Watson lawyers to discuss how we can help you with your legal matters. Our phone number and location will not be changing: 519-633-4000, 4 Elgin Street, St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 3L6.

05/13/2024

08/22/2023

Fordham & Brightling can answer all of your estate planning questions. But you better ask them before it’s too late.

04/19/2023

How often can a landlord increase the rent?

https://bit.ly/2Gom0kC

We offer legal services. Visit us at https://www.forbrightlaw.ca for more information.

Your landlord can only increase your rent once every 12 months. You must receive 90 days written notice before the increase.

04/12/2023

Mortgage planning tips

https://bit.ly/3qo19TM

We offer legal services. Visit us at https://www.forbrightlaw.ca for more information.

Mortgage information including how much to borrow, how interest rate increases will affect your payments and how to pay off your mortgage faster.