The Law Society requires that, each calendar year, all practising BC lawyers complete and report completion online of at least 12 hours of continuing professional development (CPD) in accredited educational activities.
- If a lawyer does not complete the CPD by December 31, a late fee of $500 (plus tax) applies (Rule 3-31(1)).
- If a lawyer does not report completion of the CPD by December 31, a late fee of $200 (plus tax) applies (Rule 3-31(3)).
- If a lawyer does not complete and report completion by April 1 of the following year, the lawyer will be suspended until all required professional development is completed. Lawyers receive 60 days prior notice of the suspension (Rule 3-32).
The twelve hour requirement is subject to adjustment for entering or re-entering practice mid-year. Lawyers who are exempt during the reporting year, but resume practising law within the reporting year, must complete one credit hour for each full or partial calendar month in the practice of law. The professional responsibility and ethics, client care and relations, and practice management requirement is also adjusted.