New threats to physical safety of lawyers

The Law Society of BC is aware of recent incidents in which lawyers have been threatened with serious physical harm unless they provided substantial sums of money. If you are threatened in this manner, immediately contact the police in your jurisdiction. The police may involve the new Extortion Task Force. The Canada Border Services Agency has also recently joined the task force to address the rise in extortion threats and violence against businesses. While the incidents are not widespread at this time, we want to ensure lawyers are aware of the issue due to the seriousness of the matter.
 
If you have questions about reporting such threats to the Law Society or accessing resources, feel welcome to contact practice advisor Barbara Buchanan, KC at 604-697-5816 (direct) or bbuchanan@lsbc.org.