Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: British Columbia

What is a Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application?

Form 29 is the application you use to return to legal practice on a restricted basis in British Columbia. It is the pathway for a former, retired, non-practising, or administratively suspended lawyer to resume practice with conditions. Those conditions limit what you can do, for whom, and for how long.

The goal is simple. It lets you handle a defined need without returning to full, unrestricted status. You may complete the wind-up of a file. You may assist a clinic on pro bono matters. You may step in for a short-term coverage need at a firm. You may close trust matters after a practice shutdown. You do not get full practice rights. You get the limited authority described in your approval.

The application asks for your identity, your membership history, and the reason you need restricted status. It asks for a clear scope of work and a defined timeline. You should expect to provide proof of insurance, if required for the role. You should also expect to confirm you will not operate a trust account unless approved. You will consent to checks on your discipline and conduct history. You will confirm you will follow any practice conditions.

Who Typically Uses This Form?

You use this form if you are not currently authorized to practise and need to work within limits. Typical users include:

• A non-practising member who needs to finish a limited set of files.
• A retired lawyer who wants to provide supervised pro bono services.
• A lawyer who resigned and now needs a short, defined return.
• A lawyer who was administratively suspended and needs restricted rights during cleanup.
• An in-house counsel returning to private practice for a known, limited period.
• A former partner asked to assist with a legacy matter.

The common thread is a clear, limited scope with built-in guardrails. You are not resuming full practice. You are addressing a narrow need.

Why Would You Need This Form?

This form helps you solve time-bound, risk-managed situations. You may need to:

• Transfer or discharge a mortgage after firm closure.
• Finalize settlements and trust distributions on a single file.
• Cover a leave for a colleague with court dates already set.
• Provide pro bono services through an approved program.
• Act under direct supervision while you refresh competencies.
• Meet conditions after a long absence before full return.

You also use it when the regulator requires proof of fitness to practise. The limited status allows you to work under oversight while you meet those requirements. That may include education, mentorship, or audit conditions.

Typical Usage Scenarios

• Imagine you closed your sole practice last year and moved to non-practising status. One file remains: a trust payout tied to a signed release. You need authority to finalize payments and file releases. Limited reinstatement lets you complete these tasks and then step back out.
• Your firm has a sudden parental leave on a busy litigation team. You are a retired partner with direct knowledge of the files. You can apply to return for a set period, with restrictions to that team and those files, under the firm’s insurance.
• You want to volunteer at a legal clinic once a week. You will receive files only through that clinic’s program. You can apply for limited status tied to that role, with defined supervision and no trust handling.

In each scenario, the work is defined. The time window is defined. The controls are defined. Form 29 collects that structure and brings it to the regulator for approval.

When Would You Use a Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application?

You use this form when a limited, supervised return is the right tool. You are not seeking full reinstatement. You are addressing a narrow need that benefits from oversight and controls.

You might be a lawyer who stepped away from practice for caregiving. A firm asks you to return for three months to complete discoveries and a mediation. You can apply for approval tied to those steps and that timeline. Your status ends when the tasks end.

You might be a retired lawyer with unique knowledge of a long-standing commercial matter. The client faces a closing that needs the drafter’s involvement. You can apply to handle only that closing, with the firm’s support and insurance in place.

You might be a non-practising member who volunteers at a pro bono clinic. The clinic offers training and direct supervision. The work involves no trust funds, only summary advice and simple filings. You can apply for approval limited to that clinic and those tasks.

You might be an administrative suspension case. You paid the arrears and filed missing reports. The regulator wants proof you can operate under modern trust and practice controls. You can apply to work under a supervising lawyer and firm systems for a set period.

You might be a lawyer who resigned and then received a court appointment. The appointment requires you to accept a specific mandate. You can apply for limited status tied to that mandate and court order.

In short, use this form when the work is specific, time-bound, and manageable under set conditions. It is most helpful to firms that need targeted capacity. It is helpful to clinics that rely on experienced volunteers. It is helpful to lawyers closing loose ends after a change in status.

Legal Characteristics of the Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

This application is a legal request to the regulator. You sign it and certify its truth. You consent to checks and to the imposition of terms. It is not a mere profile update. It is a sworn submission. False statements have consequences.

The approval, when granted, is legally binding. It sets the terms of your limited status. It defines your scope, duration, supervision, insurance, and any limitations. You must follow those conditions to lawfully practise under the limited status. You cannot exceed them. Doing so can create unauthorized practice risk. It can also trigger discipline or further suspension.

What ensures enforceability?

Several things. Your signed certification. The regulator’s statutory power to set conditions. The public register which can reflect your status and conditions. The regulator’s audit and compliance tools. The obligation of firms and supervising lawyers to ensure you act within bounds. Your insurer may also require adherence to terms as a condition of coverage.

General legal considerations include your fitness to practise after time away. The regulator may consider the length of your absence. They may ask for a competency plan. They may require supervision by a named lawyer. They may limit you from opening or operating a trust account. They may restrict you to a specific employer or clinic. They may require you to complete training before or during the limited period.

The regulator may require external confirmation. That may include certificates of standing from other jurisdictions. It may include a criminal record check and a credit check. It may include proof that your prior trust obligations are complete. Prior discipline or practice issues will be relevant. You should disclose them with context and remediation steps.

Approval is discretionary. You should present a clear, narrow plan. You should show that client protection is strong. You should show that supervision and insurance are in place. You should confirm that your role will not mislead the public. Be ready to adjust your plan if conditions are imposed.

The approval often has a set end date. It may also be event-based, such as “until completion of file X.” If you need more time or scope, you must apply to vary or extend. Do not proceed on assumptions. Get written approval for any change.

How to Fill Out a Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

Set aside focused time. Gather your history, references, and attachments. Confirm a supervising lawyer and employer support if applicable. Clarify insurance and trust arrangements. Then complete the form in the following order.

1) Applicant identification

• Provide your full legal name, previous names, and member number if you had one.
• Provide your contact details and current address.
• Disclose your current status (retired, non-practising, resigned, suspended).
• State the date you last held practising status.

2) Purpose and scope of limited reinstatement

• Describe why you need limited status now. Keep it specific.
• Define the exact work you will perform. Name the files or matter types if known.
• State the start date and proposed end date. Use realistic timelines.
• Confirm whether you will appear in court or sign legal documents.
• Explain why a limited status is the right tool, not full reinstatement.

3) Employment and supervision

• Identify your proposed employer or host organization, if any.
• Provide the supervising lawyer’s name, member number, and contact details.
• Describe how supervision will work day-to-day. Include file review steps.
• Confirm that you will work only within the stated organization and team.
• Attach a letter from the employer confirming your role, scope, and oversight.

4) Insurance coverage

• Confirm whether you require professional liability insurance for the tasks.
• If yes, identify the insurer through your employer or program.
• Attach proof of coverage or a letter confirming you will be added.
• If your role is exempt from insurance, explain the exemption and why it fits your scope.

5) Trust and financial controls

• State whether you will handle client funds. Most limited roles should not.
• If you must handle funds, explain why and how controls will work.
• Confirm you will not open a trust account in your own name.
• Confirm you will use the firm’s approved trust system if applicable.
• Attach any relevant trust compliance documentation requested.

6) Competency and readiness

• Describe your recent legal experience and the length of time away.
• List recent training, courses, or CPD activities that support your scope.
• Provide a plan to refresh any skills you have not used recently.
• If returning after several years, propose a mentorship or training plan.

7) Conduct disclosures

• Answer all discipline, criminal, civil, and regulatory history questions.
• Include matters in other jurisdictions. Include resolved and pending issues.
• Provide context and remediation steps taken for any adverse history.
• Attach supporting documents, such as decisions or certificates of standing.

8) Administrative history and outstanding matters

• Confirm you have cleared any past fees, filings, or trust matters.
• If any items remain, explain the plan and timeline to complete them.
• Attach proof of completion where available.

9) Conditions you propose

• Offer practical conditions that protect clients and the public.
• Examples include no trust handling, named supervision, and scope limits.
• Propose reporting checkpoints if helpful. For example, monthly supervisor reports.

10) References and supporting letters

• Provide professional references who can speak to your competence and integrity.
• Include a letter from your supervising lawyer confirming oversight.
• Include a letter from your employer or clinic confirming your role and needs.
• Attach certificates of standing from any other regulator, if requested.

11) Schedules and attachments

• Prepare a schedule for each group of documents. Use clear labels.
• Typical schedules include: A) Employment and supervision; B) Insurance; C) Trust controls; D) Competency plan; E) Conduct documents; F) References.
• Number each page and include a table of contents for larger packages.

12) Applicant declarations and consent

• Read the declarations carefully. They create binding obligations.
• Confirm the accuracy and completeness of your application.
• Consent to background checks and ongoing compliance verification.
• Acknowledge that you understand the limits of any approval granted.

13) Signatures

• Sign and date the application. Use your full legal name.
• If a witness is required, arrange one who meets the criteria.
• If a statutory declaration is required, swear or affirm as instructed.
• Ensure the supervising lawyer signs any required acknowledgments.

14) Fees

• Calculate the application fee and any reinstatement or insurance fees.
• Arrange payment as directed in the form.
• Include proof of payment if the form requires it.

15) Submission

• Submit the form as instructed. Keep copies of everything.
• Use a cover letter that summarizes your request, scope, and controls.
• Include your preferred contact details and availability for follow-up.

16) After you submit

• Be ready to provide more information if asked.
• If the regulator proposes conditions, review them with your supervisor.
• Confirm you can meet each condition before you accept.
• Do not begin practising until you receive written approval.

17) Managing your approval

• Calendar the approval end date and any reporting deadlines.
• Keep your work within the approved scope and location.
• Document supervision and file reviews. Keep proof for audits.
• If the scope changes, seek a formal variation before acting.

Practical tips

• Keep the scope narrow. Precision speeds approval.
• Align your plan with an employer or clinic that can supervise effectively.
• Avoid trust involvement if you can. It reduces risk and complexity.
• Offer conditions that match the risks of your tasks.
• Use plain, direct answers. Avoid vague language.

Common pitfalls

• Vague descriptions of work or timelines.
• Missing proof of insurance or supervision.
• Weak or absent competency plans after long absences.
• Incomplete conduct disclosures or missing documents.
• Starting work before approval is granted.

A strong Form 29 package shows three things. First, a clear, limited need. Second, robust controls, including supervision and insurance. Third, your readiness to deliver safe, competent service within that narrow lane. If you build your application around those points, you improve your chances of a smooth review and a prompt, workable decision.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Limited reinstatement means your dissolved entity returns only for a narrow purpose and time. You use Form 29 to request that limited return. You do not regain full, ongoing status.
• Dissolution or strike off means the entity was removed from the register. You must state when and why that happened on Form 29. That date lets the registry confirm eligibility.
• Purpose of reinstatement is the specific task you need to complete. You must state this clearly on Form 29. Keep it narrow, such as transferring a property or finishing a single transaction.
• Effective period is the time window you request to complete the purpose. You propose start and end dates on Form 29. The registry may shorten or set the exact dates.
• Conditions of reinstatement are rules you must follow during the limited period. Form 29 asks you to accept these conditions. They often limit activities to the stated purpose only.
• Certificate of reinstatement is the registry’s confirmation that the entity is back for a limited time. You get this only after approval. You will use it to act during the approved window.
• Affidavit or statutory declaration is a sworn statement that supports your request. Form 29 may require one from a director or authorized person. It confirms facts like purpose and need.
• Undertaking is a promise to the registry to act within the limits of the approval. You often give this through Form 29. It can include a promise to file proof when you complete the task.
• Authorized signatory is the person who signs Form 29 for the entity. They must have authority to bind the entity. This is often a current or former director, officer, or attorney.
• Outstanding filings and fees are reports and amounts still unpaid at dissolution. Form 29 usually asks you to disclose them. You may need to pay them before approval or as a condition.

FAQs

Do you qualify for limited reinstatement if you need to sell one asset?

Yes, if you only need to complete that single task. Limited reinstatement is designed for narrow purposes. You still must show why a full restoration is not needed.

Do you need a court order to support Form 29?

Not always. Many limited reinstatements can be approved administratively. If your situation is complex or disputed, a court order may be required.

Do you have to notify creditors or other parties?

Often, yes, if your action affects others. You may need to give notice or serve documents. Form 29 may ask how you plan to do that.

Do you need to file old annual reports before approval?

Sometimes. The registry may require key filings or fees first. If not, it may add conditions to your limited approval that address those items.

Do you regain all corporate powers during the limited period?

No. You can act only for the approved purpose. Any action beyond that purpose could be invalid or expose you to penalties.

Do you need to be a current director to sign Form 29?

No, but you must show authority. A former director, officer, or appointed attorney may sign. Attach proof of authority if it is not obvious from the records.

Do you pick the time window, or does the registry?

You propose dates in Form 29. The registry may adjust that window to what it sees as reasonable. Give yourself enough time to complete the task.

Do you need a lawyer or a notary for Form 29?

It depends on complexity and supporting documents. If you must swear an affidavit or draft undertakings, you may need commissioning. Get help if you are unsure about evidence or authority.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

Before signing

• Confirm the entity’s exact legal name.
• Note the incorporation or registration number.
• Find the dissolution or strike-off date.
• Identify the precise purpose for reinstatement.
• Draft a tight purpose statement with one clear outcome.
• Estimate the minimum time needed to finish the task.
• Gather proof of the need, such as a draft transfer, contract, or title search.
• List any outstanding filings, fees, or penalties.
• Confirm the registered office and records office details you will use.
• Decide who will sign. Collect proof of authority for that person.
• Prepare a sworn affidavit or declaration if Form 29 asks for one.
• Obtain any third-party consents you will need to complete the purpose.
• Check if a court order might be required in your situation.
• Plan funding for filing fees and any penalties.
• Set calendar reminders for filing, approval, and expiry dates.

During signing

• Verify the legal name, number, and dissolution date match the register.
• Confirm the purpose statement is specific and limited.
• Check the requested effective start and end dates are realistic.
• Acknowledge all conditions of limited reinstatement.
• Complete contact details for the signatory and delivery of approvals.
• Confirm the registered office and records office addresses are correct.
• Attach supporting documents listed in the form instructions.
• Review any affidavit or declaration for accuracy and consistency.
• Ensure names and dates match across all attachments.
• Sign with the proper title and include commissioning where required.
• Authorize payment for filing fees and any rush service if needed.
• Keep a complete, scanned copy of the signed package.

After signing

• File Form 29 with the registry through the accepted channel.
• Pay all fees. Save proof of payment and a full submission copy.
• Track the status. Respond quickly to any examiner questions.
• Once approved, download or request the certificate of reinstatement.
• Calendar the reinstatement start and end dates.
• Notify banks, counterparties, and agencies involved in the purpose.
• Share the certificate with anyone who needs to rely on your authority.
• Complete the specific task within the approved window.
• File any post-completion evidence promised in your undertaking.
• Stop acting for the entity once the window closes.
• If more time is needed, apply early for an extension if allowed.
• If your needs expand, consider seeking full restoration instead.
• Store the certificate and all records in the minute book.
• Keep a clear audit trail of actions taken during the window.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

Vague purpose statements

• If you describe a broad or open-ended purpose, approval can be refused. Don’t forget to state one clear, limited task. Tie it to a specific asset, agreement, or filing.

Requesting too much time

• A long window suggests broader activity. The registry may cut it down or deny it. Don’t forget to request only the time you truly need, with buffer for delays.

Missing proof of authority

• If the signer’s authority is unclear, processing stalls. Don’t forget to attach minutes, resolutions, or other evidence that shows the signer can bind the entity.

Ignoring outstanding filings or fees

• Unpaid fees or missing reports can block approval. Don’t forget to disclose and address them up front. Ask for conditions if timing prevents prepayment.

Acting beyond the approved purpose

• Transactions outside the scope may be invalid. Don’t forget to re-check the certificate and conditions before you act. Seek an amendment if scope changes.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form Form 29 – Limited Reinstatement Application

1. Submit the form with all attachments and the fee. Use the registry’s accepted filing method. Keep confirmation of receipt.
2. Monitor the file. Examiners may ask for clarifications or more evidence. Respond quickly and keep your explanations consistent with Form 29.
3. On approval, secure the certificate of reinstatement. Circulate it to all parties who must rely on your authority. This often includes banks, land title offices, counterparties, and insurers.
4. Plan and complete the approved task within the time window. Keep a checklist of every step needed to finish. Confirm signatures, funds, and filings line up with your expiry date.
5. Record each action you take. Keep copies of contracts, transfers, and filings. Note dates and who signed what. Maintain a clear paper trail.
6. File any promised proof. If your undertaking requires a post-completion filing, do it fast. Send confirmation to the registry if the form requests it.
7. Stop acting when the window closes. Do not take any new steps for the entity after expiry. If you need more time, request an extension before the end date if that option exists.
8. If you need corrections or changes, request an amendment. Outline what changed, why, and any impact on third parties. Attach updated documents or fresh declarations if required.
9. If approval is refused, address the reasons. Fix gaps in evidence or authority. Refile with stronger documents, or consider whether a court order or full restoration is a better path.
10. Store everything in the minute book. Include the form, affidavit or declaration, the certificate, undertakings, correspondence, and post-completion proof. Keep retention schedules in mind.