Law societies are independent professional bodies that govern Canada’s legal profession. Every province and territory has its own law society, which serves the public interest by promoting a high standard of legal services and professional conduct. In fact, every lawyer in Canada is required by law to be a member of a law society and be governed by its rules. Here is a brief overview of what law societies do and how they benefit you.
How Law Societies Govern Lawyers In general, law societies are fully funded by lawyers, who are required to pay fees in order to practise. This ensures that all prospective lawyers are appropriately educated and rigorously trained through the articling process as well as the bar admission course. Law societies set and enforce standards for the professional responsibility and conduct of their lawyers. For example, like many other law societies across the country, the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador:
Requires that all lawyers be of good character and fit to practise law
Mandates that all practising lawyers complete several hours of continuing legal education
Conducts regular trust audits and practice reviews
Law societies help maintain and advance the cause of justice and the rule of law. As a result, when you hire a lawyer in Newfoundland and throughout Canada, you can rest assured they have the knowledge, skills, experience and ethics to provide you with comprehensive and trustworthy services.
How Law Societies Help the Public Law societies advocate for issues that affect the public interest. In addition, they often provide public services. As an example, the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador offers:
A library with legal resources
A comprehensive online directory with the contact information of practising lawyers
A program that receives and responds to allegations about lawyers
An assurance fund to support individuals who have lost money because of a dishonest or negligent lawyer
By providing these and other services, law societies help make justice and legal services accessible to everyone.
Experienced Lawyers in Newfoundland Gittens & Associates in St. John’s provides legal advice and representation in a wide range of practice areas, including estate planning, employment and labour, child custody and spousal support. Our lawyers have more than 60 years of combined legal experience and have represented clients in nearly every area of litigation. You can count on our team to address your unique needs and fiercely advocate on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.