Business Continuity and Succession Policy

Purpose

If a paralegal suddenly can't practise because of illness, accident or death, their clients' matters and money must still be protected. The Law Society of Ontario encourages every licensee to plan for this. This policy explains NEO's plan.

Our policy

1. A written contingency plan. The firm keeps a written contingency plan that says what happens if the principal is unable to practise, temporarily or permanently.
2. A designated licensee. The plan names another licensee who has agreed to step in: to review open matters, protect deadlines, tell clients and the courts or tribunals what has happened, and help clients move their files if they wish.
3. Access to records. Client files, deadlines and contact details are kept in the firm's practice system and backed up, so the designated licensee can find what is needed quickly.
4. Trust money. The plan sets out how money held in trust is protected and accounted for, as By-Law 9 requires, and how clients get it back.
5. Clients come first. Clients are told promptly, and decide for themselves who continues their matter.
6. Keeping it current. The plan is reviewed at least once a year and whenever the people named in it change.

Everyday continuity

The firm's systems are hosted with established providers, records are backed up regularly, and staff can keep urgent matters moving if the office is unavailable, for example because of a power failure or a closure.

Review

This policy is reviewed at least once a year, and whenever the Law Society's By-Laws or rules change. The principal approves every change.

Questions

Email info@neolegalservices.com, call 647-200-3526 or toll-free 888-519-2435, or write to us at Unit 236, 1099 Kingston Road, Pickering, Ontario L1V 1B5.