The Law Society of Alberta National Mobility Agreement: A Guide for Lawyers

The Law Society of Alberta has made significant strides in making the legal profession more accessible for lawyers across Canada. The National Mobility Agreement, which was introduced in 2009, allows lawyers who are licensed in another Canadian jurisdiction to practice law in Alberta without having to re-write the bar exam, as long as certain conditions are met.

Here are some key points that lawyers should keep in mind when considering practicing law in Alberta under the National Mobility Agreement:

– Eligibility: Lawyers must be in good standing with their home jurisdiction’s law society, and have practiced law for a minimum of 5 years before being eligible to practice under the National Mobility Agreement.

– Notification: Lawyers are required to notify the Law Society of Alberta in writing before starting work in the province. Failure to do so could result in disciplinary action.

– Insurance: Lawyers are required to have professional liability insurance coverage that meets Alberta’s standards before practicing law in the province.

– Supervision: Lawyers who are practicing under the National Mobility Agreement must be supervised by a lawyer who is licensed to practice law in Alberta and who has been in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta for at least 5 years.

– Fees: Lawyers are required to pay an application fee and an annual mobility fee to the Law Society of Alberta in order to practice law under the National Mobility Agreement. These fees help to cover the administrative costs associated with regulating out-of-province lawyers.

One of the biggest advantages of the National Mobility Agreement is that it allows lawyers to practice law in Alberta without having to re-write the bar exam. This can save a considerable amount of time and money, and also allows lawyers who are licensed in other provinces to quickly respond to client needs in Alberta.

Overall, the National Mobility Agreement is a valuable tool for lawyers who are interested in practicing law in Alberta. However, it’s important for lawyers to fully understand the requirements and limitations of the agreement in order to avoid disciplinary action. The Law Society of Alberta website provides more detailed information about the National Mobility Agreement, including application forms and fee schedules.