The Law Society continues to develop guidance and measures to support lawyers in the delivery of legal services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal is to ensure a continuity of legal services without risk to the health of you and the public. In addition to the information here, you will find updates on the Law Society website.
Guidance for lawyers who test positive for COVID-19
Lawyers who test positive for the COVID-19 virus, or who are being treated as presumptively positive, may be required to provide information to the provincial health officials, including the names and contact information of clients or other individuals with whom they had recent contact. The Law Society has developed Guidance for Lawyers to assist with maintaining confidential information while complying with legal responsibilities for disclosure to health officials.
Electronic banking, trust accounting and financial transactions during COVID-19
Sole practitioners and small firms with lawyers and staffs who are working remotely have asked questions about the use of electronic banking and electronic signatures, using email to send clients their bill, or how to manage banking now that several financial institutions have closed branches temporarily or reduced in-person services as part of their COVID-19 response. Further information and answers to these questions are available in the Trust Accounting and Financial FAQs on the COVID-19 Information web page.
LTSA modifies requirements for virtual commissioning
The LTSA has issued a new version of Practice Bulletin 1-20 which modifies the requirements for commissioning affidavits virtually by eliminating the need for the certificate as provided in their original practice bulletin. For further information, read the full Practice Bulletin.
Tips for the business of law during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for lawyers and law firms, including economic pressures and potential changes to the business of law. The Law Society has heard from many of you who are concerned about the economic future. Our Practice Advisors and other departments have assembled 17 Tips for the business of law during COVID-19 to address concerns and questions that some lawyers and students are experiencing during this difficult time.
Fraud alert: phishing, email and text scams
Over the past several weeks, we have seen an increase in the frequency of email phishing and fraud attempts. Fraudsters are sending COVID-19 related emails impersonating a colleague or person in authority that trick recipients into installing malicious software on their computer or mobile device by opening an attachment or clicking a link in emails or text messages.
Be vigilant and protect yourself and your firm’s network and finance. Alert your staff. Avoid clinking links or opening attachments unless you are certain of their legitimacy.