In this post we're going to highlight some of the changes recently introduced by he LSO including one of the most significant changes on how articling fees will be required to be paid (more details on changes below).
All licensees and licensing hopefuls will be introduced to LSO Connects this summer. The Law Society's administrative procedures and transactions will be made easier by this safe online platform.
There will be a gradual withdrawal of the present LSO Portal and online licensing candidate accounts. The main point of access for self-service alternatives and contact with the Law Society will be your new LSO Connects account.
In the upcoming months, setup instructions will be sent to the primary email address you have on file with the Law Society. To ensure you receive this information as soon as possible, make sure your contact information is current.
Create your LSO Connects account using the invitation link that the Law Society issued you to guarantee correct access.
We have summarised some of the changes that will affect licensing candidates.
Examinations
It will be via your BarConnectON account that you register for the exams. The time and location of your exam will be up to you to select.
BarConnectON allows users to seek accommodations by uploading necessary files, submitting service requests, and checking application status. Supporting evidence, including healthcare professional records, is required, eliminating the need for direct mail to the Law Society.
The Law Society will no longer issue identity cards for candidates, and applicants will need to present a valid government-issued picture identification card at examination venues starting in autumn 2024.
Access exam results via your BarConnectON account, which will notify you via email when they become available, and you must log in to view them.
You can submit a service request in your Law SocietyON Connect account to request tutoring services.
Finance and fees
The Law Society will no longer receive candidate fees directly from businesses and associations, and will now use your Law SocietyON Connect account for licencing costs. Firms and internship supervisors will be notified. You may want to work with your firm or organization to determine the best way to get reimbursed for these expenses.
BarConnectON account registration for tests requires payment for study materials, accessible once released, not covered by monthly subscription plan.
The Law SocietyON payment mechanism is demand-based, requiring each application payment rather than receiving an invoice. Exams can be paid using Law SocietyConnectON or through a payment plan, with monthly payment schedules and options updated.
The Law Society will adjust its monthly payment schedules after the launch of Law SocietyON Connecting. Candidates can pay for the law practice program, internship, and exams using a monthly payment plan. Lawyer candidates can opt for a ten-month plan, while paralegal candidates can opt for a four-month plan. A service charge applies to each plan.
BarConnectON now accepts Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Visa Debit, and Mastercard Debit for licencing fees, with some bills payable monthly. Checks, money orders, and electronic funds transfers are no longer accepted.
Loan applicants will be able to submit a service request via their BarConnectON account to apply for loans.
Articling period — candidates for the lawyer licensing process
Interns no longer need electronic signatures on internship agreements and attestation forms; they must use BarConnectON account for application, reviewed by Law Society staff and principal.
The Law Society no longer needs to be informed about leave of absence during an articling placement, with the internship supervisor managing leave and compensating for missed time.
Becoming a licensee
BarConnectON users can choose between ceremonial or administrative admission after licencing, with administrative admission occurring more frequently and continuously, allowing faster license acquisition for legal applicants.
Once you have completed the requirements of the licensing process, you will receive your licence and will be notified through your Law SocietyON Connect account.
