Law Society of Ontario

Licensing candidates: We’ve created two helpful how-to guides to assist you in navigating the licensing process through LSO Connects. See our application and examination FAQs here: https://lnkd.in/gnJG3g_8

There are a number of new regulatory requirements and enhancements coming into effect in 2025, including: • Client Contingency Planning, • the Foundations of Sole Practice course, • LSO Connects and • the Family Legal Services Provider credential. To help licensees learn more about these changes and how to be prepared, we’ve put together a primer about what’s new in 2025. Visit LSO.ca/New-2025 to learn more.

Having a client contingency plan protects your clients’ rights and interests, demonstrates good business management and ensures you fulfill your regulatory requirements. Learn more: LSO.ca/contingency-plans

Licensees: don’t miss these important dates. Certificates of Authorization for professional corporations must be renewed by December 31. The 2024 CPD Requirement should be completed by December 31 and reported by March 31, 2025. Visit LSO.ca/LSO-Connects to get started.

The Law Society is aware that lawyers and paralegals in Ontario are using or may consider using third-party payment services or electronic funds transfer systems, such as the SureFund Service offered by Teranet. Before using any third-party payment service or electronic funds transfer system, licensees must conduct appropriate due diligence. The Law Society is continuing to review the use of third-party payment services and electronic funds transfer systems and may consider rule or by-law changes to address the future use of these services by licensees. Read the Notice to the Professions: https://lnkd.in/gvhuGm-W

Paralegals, we want to hear from you! The Law Society is in the preliminary stages of exploring the feasibility of extending the Certified Specialist (CS) designation to paralegals. We are seeking input from paralegals on their level of interest in the CS designation and other program considerations. Share your thoughts in this confidential 10-minute survey: https://ow.ly/uHI050TZLSX

Missed the December Lifelines newsletter from the Member Assistance Program? Find it in the Well-being Resource Centre: https://lnkd.in/echKF_im)

The Law Society of Ontario wishes licensees and partners a happy holiday season! We will be closed December 24-26, December 31 and January 1. View the full list of important dates here: https://ow.ly/Wg2n50UlWru

The way you will pay your annual fee has changed. Beginning January 1, all licensees must confirm or update their business relationship information in LSO Connects to generate their 2025 annual fee. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gPvb9QDe

An LSO Connects account is necessary for licensees and licensing candidates to complete their regulatory requirements. If you don’t have an account, visit this page to register today: https://ow.ly/h2ZB50Ujk1E