COVID-19 may impact candidates completing the experiential training component of the licensing process in a number of ways.
The Law Society understands that the impacts of COVID-19 cannot be estimated and that COVID-19 will affect firms and licensees in a myriad of personal, professional, and financial ways. Principals and supervisors are encouraged to do whatever they are reasonably able to support their candidates to the best of their ability during this challenging time. Employers facing a reduction in billable work may consider having candidates perform general legal research; create client or public resources related to their area of law; draft presentations or legal articles on novel decisions; or create, update, or annotate firm precedents (e.g., retainer letters, contracts, client interview forms, pleadings).
Those candidates who are working remotely as a result of COVID-19 must maintain interaction with their principal or supervisor to ensure proper supervision of their placement. Interaction with a principal or supervisor may be facilitated by frequent email communications, telephone calls, or video chats. Candidates should contact their principal or supervisor first with any questions they may have.
Articling principals are encouraged to contact the Law Society at articling@lso.ca should they have any questions about temporary adjustments in their workplace environment that affect their ability to monitor and supervise the work performed by a candidate.
Law Practice Program candidates should contact Ryerson University and Programme de pratique du droit candidates should contact the University of Ottawa with any questions or concerns that their supervisor is unable to answer.
Paralegal students should contact the program coordinator at their college with any questions or concerns they may have about changes to their field placement.
Last updated: October 26