Richard can hardly believe that he was first introduced to Condominium Law 30 years ago. Condominium Law resonated well with him, and in 2001, he opened Elia Associates, a boutique law practice with a focus on the post-development side of condominium law.


Richard holds a Masters of Law with a focus on Appropriate Dispute Resolution and the “A.C.C.I.” - Associate of the Canadian Condominium Institute - designation, which was (when offered) the country’s only condo-specific designation for condominium professionals. This designation evidences Richard’s extensive condominium knowledge. He has also been recognized by ACMO (Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario) for his contribution to dispute resolution in condominium corporations.


As a junior lawyer, Richard was fortunate to have been able to contribute to condominium-related legislative initiatives surrounding the creation, review and implementation of both Bill 38, which became the Condominium Act, 1998. As a more seasoned lawyer, he contributed to and/or offered comment on Bill 106, Protecting Condominium Owners Act, 2015 and subsequent legislative amendments. Richard continues to use every opportunity to share his wealth of knowledge and speak to changes in condominium legislation.


Richard has written extensively and has spoken across the province at a variety of courses, seminars and conferences about condominium issues.


Richard is passionate about condominium education. He readily volunteers his time to increase awareness amongst condominium unit owners in the belief that an engaged and informed approach will serve to better manage community-based conflict and will help build stronger condominium communities.


Ever a pragmatic thinker, Richard has no hesitation to get his hands dirty if it involves building or repairing… anything. He will readily and happily bend anyone’s ear when talking about his latest vehicle restoration project. If you can’t find him at his desk, in a meeting or at a speaking engagement, you are sure to find him in his workshop.

EDUCATION AND AFFILIATIONS

Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - Eastern Ontario Chapter Member, former Director and Education Committee Member
Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - Golden Horseshoe Chapter Member, Director, Education Committee Member, current Chapter President
Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - Grand River Chapter Member and Past Education Committee Member
Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - Huronia Chapter Member and Past Director
Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - Toronto & Area Chapter Member and Past Legislative Review Committee Member
Canadian Condominium Institute ("CCI") - London & Area Chapter Member
Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario ("ACMO") Member and Associate of the Year (2012)
Carleton County Law Association Member
Community Associations Institute ("CAI") Member: Southeast Florida Chapter 
Osgoode Hall Law School, 2005 LL.M. (ADR)
Law Society of Ontario, 1996 Member
Queen's University, 1994 LL.B.
Ryerson Polytechnical University, 1991 B. Comm.