few questions on LMO toronto

[eire]

So my girlfriend's company has agreed to sponsor here and apply for a three year visa through the LMO here in Toronto.

A few questions I have

Q1. How long does this process take on average, our visas are up at the start of september and the process is just beginning now

Q3. What do i need to do to include myself in the process as her commonlaw partner

Q4. Do you need a lawyer for this process, her company says not so.

thanks again