The most common way to become a lawyer in BC is to earn a law degree from a Canadian law school, then complete the Law Society Admission Program.
The Admission Program includes:
After completing the admission program, students can apply for call and admission to the Bar.
Lawyers practising in other jurisdictions in Canada may be eligible to transfer to BC. Those with a law degree from outside Canada must apply to the National Committee on Accreditation before applying to the Law Society Admission Program.
There are also provisions for non-practising or retired lawyers who wish to return to practice, as well as for lawyers who were formerly licensed to practise in BC and want to be reinstated.
The Law Society screens all applicants to ensure they are of good character and repute and are fit to become a barrister and a solicitor of the Supreme Court. If there are concerns about the character or fitness of a candidate, the application may be referred to the Credentials Committee.
After meeting all of the requirements, applicants will take the barristers and solicitors oath at a call ceremony or before a judge or practising lawyer, prior to becoming eligible for practice.
Application information
Applications will be reviewed within 10 business days upon receipt of payment (including GST). You will be contacted if additional information is required or if your application can proceed to the next stage of the process. The total processing time may take up to 30 days, or longer if there are additional requirements or if review by the Credentials Committee is needed. You will be notified in writing when your application is approved. It is highly recommended that you submit your application at least 30 days before your proposed call date/return-to-practice date. Please note that Law Society Admission Program (LSAP) applicants must submit their applications no later than 30 days before their desired enrollment start date in the LSAP.
To avoid delays in the application process, please ensure your payment includes GST. Information on application fees (before GST) can be found in Schedule 1 – Law Society Fees and Assessments and the call and admission fees that correspond to the month of your anticipated call date. Acceptable payment methods are listed in the pay option sheet.
