Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who do you work with?

    We serve small businesses and entrepreneurs across British Columbia, with a focus on women-led businesses.Our clients include creatives, consultants, wellness professionals, coaches, and small business owners who want clear and strategic legal guidance.

  • Do you work with clients virtually?

    Yes, all of our services are designed to be accessible online. We meet through secure video calls, communicate by email, and share documents electronically. This means you can access legal support from anywhere in BC, without needing to step into a law office.

  • What stage should my business be at?

    Any stage is welcome. We work with clients from the idea stage to well-established businesses preparing to grow, scale, or hire. If you’re not sure where to start, a Legal Clarity Call is the perfect way to figure out what kind of support you need.

  • What types of businesses can you help?

     We work with a wide range of professionals and entrepreneurs, including:

    - Women-owned businesses across industries
    - Creative professionals (designers, writers, artists)
    - Consultants and coaches
    - Wellness, fitness, and healthcare practitioners
    - Restaurants, freelancers, and service- based businesses

    If you run a business in British Columbia, we can help you set up, protect, and grow it.

  • Do you provide ongoing legal services?

    Yes. In addition to one-time reviews and projects, we also provide ongoing support as fractional in-house counsel. This is like having your own dedicated lawyer on your team, someone who understands your business and is available for regular check-ins, contract reviews, and legal strategy, without the cost of hiring a full-time lawyer.

  • What can I expect when working with you?

    You can expect a collaborative, approachable, and respectful process. We take the time to understand your business, explain legal concepts in plain language, and offer practical options so you can move forward with confidence.

  • Who will I be working with?

    All of the legal work is handled directly by Mari Gutierrez, the principal lawyer and founder of Encino Law. We don’t outsource to paralegals or legal assistants. When you work with our firm, you get our full attention, expertise, and guidance at every step.

  • Can you work within my budget?

    Yes. We offer flexible and transparent pricing. One-time services start at $170, and we also provide payment plans to spread out the cost of retainers or packages. We’ll discuss your budget during your consultation and find the right level of support for you.

  • How do I pay?

    We accept e-transfer, debit, and all major credit cards.

  • What if I’m not sure what I need?

    That’s exactly what a Legal Clarity Call is for. We’ll go over your goals, questions, and concerns, and we’ll recommend the best next steps.

  • Do you offer one-time help or only ongoing services?

    Both. You can book us for one-time contract reviews, strategy sessions, or customized legal documents, or choose an ongoing package if you want consistent, year-round support.

  • Can you help with contracts I already have?

    Absolutely. I review, update, and rework contracts to ensure they protect your interests and match how your business actually works.