REMINDER: return to client authentication requirements by March 31, 2024
January 31, 2024
After March 31, 2024, client IDs must be verified through one of the client verification methods.
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New CRA Reporting Rules for Trust Accounts: Filing T3’s on Trust Income
January 31, 2024
A set of new income tax rules for filing T3s on trust income may have an impact on lawyers holding specific trust accounts.
Changes to Mandatory Reporting Rules in Income Tax Act: Injunction granted to Federation of Law Societies of Canada
January 31, 2024
On November 24, 2023, the Supreme Court of British Columbia granted an injunction suspending the application of the expanded mandatory reporting obligations in the Income Tax Act to members of the legal profession, pending the outcome of the Federation’s challenge to the constitutionality of those provisions.
A2J Week:Â How Physical Barriers Impact Access to Justice
October 27, 2023
When we consider access to justice, it is easy to think of it as only a conceptual principle. In reality, physical barriers can frequently present barriers that make Courts, offices, and other places that facilitate justice inaccessible. As part of our work in the Equity and Access Office, identifying what physical barriers exist and working towards resolution is a crucial element of our work.Â
Client Identification Clarification
October 26, 2023
The Federation of Law Societies has issued guidance requiring the use of a technology product capable of verifying the authenticity of the government-issued photo ID when the verification is happening remotely.
To allow for the implementation of the technology required to facilitate this process, the temporary pandemic relief measure of allowing verification by viewing a government-issued identity document with the person over a video call will be extended until January 31, 2024. After this date NSBS members must return to in-person verification of Client ID or adopt remote ID authentication technology conforming to the Federation guidance.
A2J Week: How Internationally Trained Lawyers Improve Access to Culturally Competent Legal Services
October 26, 2023
Part of Access to Justice in Nova Scotia is ensuring that people have access to legal services and lawyers that reflect the demographics of our province. At the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, we create a culturally competent Bar by working with internationally trained lawyers who are eager to join the profession in Nova Scotia and help meet the demand of the public’s need for legal services.
When a lawyer from a jurisdiction outside of Canada is looking to join the Nova Scotia Bar, the Society sees this as an opportunity to improve access to justice. Internationally trained lawyers not only increases the supply of lawyers in this province, but they bring their own cultural and lived experiences, helping to build a profession that is in step with the province’s diversity.