DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

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

What is a DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement?

Plain-language definition

This form asks the Law Society to approve a change in your articling supervision. It assigns your articling agreement from your current principal to a new principal. You use it when your articling arrangement changes and you want your time to continue without disruption. The form records the reasons, the effective dates, and the new training plan. It also confirms that the new principal is eligible and able to supervise you.

You, your current principal, and your proposed new principal all sign it. The Law Society reviews it. If approved, your articles continue under the new principal on the stated date.

Who typically uses this form?

• An articled student in British Columbia who needs to change principals.
• The current principal who supervised the student to date.
• The proposed principal who will take over supervision.
• Law firms, government departments, or in-house legal departments that host articled students.
• HR or student program managers who coordinate articling placements.

Why you might need this form

You need this form when your articling supervision cannot continue as originally approved. Common triggers include a firm change, a principal’s leave, a practice closure, or a plan to complete your articles in another setting. The form protects your articling credit. It confirms that your training remains supervised and compliant with Law Society rules.

Without an approved assignment, you risk losing credit for time served after the change. You also risk practicing without proper supervision status. The form prevents those issues by documenting a lawful, continuous articling arrangement.

Typical usage scenarios

• You change firms mid-articles.
• Your current principal accepts a judicial appointment.
• Your firm restructures and dissolves your practice group.
• You relocate to another city for personal reasons.
• Your principal goes on extended medical or parental leave.
• You want broader exposure and split your articles across two placements.
• You receive a secondment. The Law Society requires an assignment agreement so your supervision is clear and uninterrupted.

In each case, the form sets the handover terms, confirms eligibility, and aligns your training plan with the new setting. It also ensures the Law Society has an accurate record of who is supervising you and where you work.

When Would You Use a DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement?

You use the form any time your supervising principal changes before you are called. This includes permanent and temporary changes. It also includes partial changes, like transfers for a fixed period or secondments.

For example, your principal retires halfway through your articles. You find a new principal in the same firm. You complete the assignment form to transfer supervision effective the retirement date. Or you move to a new firm with a proposed principal who meets eligibility requirements. You file the form to continue your articles at the new firm with no loss of time.

You may also use it for a temporary assignment. Say your principal takes a four-month leave. Another senior lawyer in the firm steps in as interim principal. You file the form with start and end dates for the assignment. When your original principal returns, you can assign back if needed.

Government and in-house placements use the form when a student transitions in or out of their program. The form confirms supervision arrangements, insurance coverage in that setting, and the training plan. The Law Society needs to see that the articling environment remains suitable and that supervision will be active and regular.

If you split your articles between different practice areas, you use the form to plan the second placement. It identifies the new principal, the competencies you will target, and the remaining time to complete. This is common when students want both litigation and solicitor experience.

You also use the form when the Law Society requests a change. This can happen if your current principal becomes ineligible or your placement no longer meets requirements. The form allows you to pivot to a compliant arrangement without starting over.

In short, use the form whenever your principal changes, your setting changes, or your supervision needs a formal handover. Do not wait. The effective date matters for credit and compliance.

Legal Characteristics of the DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

The agreement is legally binding once approved by the Law Society and signed by all parties. It amends your original articling agreement. It replaces the named principal and sets new terms for supervision. Your obligations as an articled student continue. The new principal assumes the duties set out in Law Society rules and the agreement.

Enforceability flows from professional regulation. The Law Society sets conditions for articling. You cannot act as an articled student unless the Law Society approves your principal and placement. The form documents that approval. It also includes declarations and undertakings. Those declarations confirm eligibility, the capacity to supervise, and compliance with supervision ratios. They also confirm that the student will be covered by liability insurance and work under appropriate oversight.

The form ensures continuity. It records time credited, the effective date, and any breaks or conditions. It confirms that the new principal will provide training and monitor your work. It aligns your training plan with required competencies. The Law Society relies on this record to grant credit and, ultimately, assess your readiness for call.

Legal considerations

• Eligibility of the principal. The new principal must be a member in good standing and meet supervisory experience standards. They must have capacity and time to supervise. If the principal has too many students, the Law Society may deny or restrict the assignment.
• Scope of practice and setting. The placement must expose you to suitable legal work and professional responsibility. It must support your learning plan and allow regular feedback.
• Insurance and trust conditions. You must be covered by the host’s professional liability insurance. If you handle trust funds, you must do so under approved controls.
• Conflicts and confidentiality. When transferring between firms, the new firm must run conflicts checks. You must preserve client confidentiality. Client files do not move without proper authority.
• Employment status. The assignment form is not your employment contract. Your pay and employment terms are handled separately. However, the Law Society may require confirmation that your articles are paid and that you have the resources needed to complete them.
• Breaks and credit. Gaps may be allowed with approval, but extended unapproved breaks risk loss of credit. The form helps the Law Society track any break and align your completion date.
• PLTC timing. Your Professional Legal Training Course schedule must stay consistent with Law Society requirements. If the assignment changes your timing, note it and seek approval.

Non-compliance has consequences. If you change supervision without approval, the Law Society can deny credit for that period. It can also take regulatory action. The form helps you avoid that risk and keeps your path to call on track.

How to Fill Out a DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

Follow these steps. Work in order. Keep your answers clear and consistent with your employment documents.

Step 1: Confirm eligibility and gather information

• Confirm the proposed principal meets eligibility and is in good standing.
• Confirm the firm or host organization can supervise you and has capacity.
• Run a conflicts check if you are changing organizations.
• Gather your student file number, contact information, and PLTC schedule.
• Get the current and proposed principal’s full names and member numbers.
• Collect the firm names, addresses, and contact details.
• Outline the remaining articling time and your proposed completion date.

Tip: Draft a short training plan with your proposed principal before you start the form. You will need it.

Step 2: Identify the parties

Complete the section naming all parties:

• You, the articled student. Use your legal name and current contact details.
• Your current principal. Include their full name and Law Society member number.
• Your proposed principal. Include their full name and Law Society member number.
• The outgoing firm or organization, if different from the incoming one.
• The incoming firm or organization.

Use consistent firm names across all documents. If a trade name differs from the legal name, add both.

Step 3: State the reason for assignment

Explain why you need the change. Keep it factual and simple:

• Principal’s leave, retirement, or change in role.
• Firm change or relocation.
• Training plan adjustment for broader experience.
• Secondment or temporary placement.
• Workplace restructuring or practice closure.

Avoid sensitive details. You do not need to describe private employment matters. Focus on the objective reason and the training impact.

Step 4: Set the effective date and duration

Enter the effective date when the new principal will take over. This date drives credit and compliance. If the assignment is temporary, include start and end dates. If permanent, note that.

List the total articling time completed to date and the time remaining. Include any planned breaks or PLTC periods. Make sure the dates align with your employment offer.

If there is or will be a gap, explain its length and the reason. Ask for confirmation that credit will not be affected.

Step 5: Describe the training plan

Summarize your training plan under the new principal. Cover:

• Practice areas you will work in.
• Types of files and tasks you will handle.
• Court or tribunal exposure if applicable.
• Research, drafting, client communication, and file management.
• Ethics and professional responsibility training.
• Mentoring structure and frequency of feedback.
• How performance will be evaluated.

Link the plan to competencies needed for entry-level practice. Show that you will receive regular, direct supervision. If you will work remotely, describe how supervision will occur day to day.

Attach a detailed schedule or outline if the form allows schedules. A concise one-page plan is often enough if it is specific.

Step 6: Confirm principal eligibility and capacity

The proposed principal must confirm:

• They are in good standing and eligible to supervise.
• They have the time and resources to supervise you.
• They understand their obligations under the rules.
• They have not exceeded supervision ratios.

If the principal supervises other students, list them. Include their status and expected end dates. This helps confirm capacity.

Step 7: Describe the work setting and insurance

Identify the practice setting:

• Law firm, sole practice, government, clinic, or in-house legal department.
• Office location(s) and any remote work arrangement.
• Resources available to you (library tools, practice management systems, support staff).

Confirm liability insurance coverage for your work. If your role includes trust accounting or client funds, confirm controls and oversight. The principal should endorse these statements.

Step 8: Address conflicts and confidentiality

If you are changing organizations, confirm that:

• The incoming firm ran a conflicts check and cleared you to work.
• You will not take confidential client information without authority.
• Any ongoing files will only transfer with client consent and proper arrangements.

If you will continue on a file that crosses firms, describe how confidentiality will be protected. Get client consents where required and keep them on file.

Step 9: Note your PLTC schedule

Enter your planned or confirmed PLTC session. If the assignment changes your PLTC timing, explain how. Ensure your articling dates and PLTC timing remain compatible. If the Law Society requires an updated confirmation, attach it or state when you will provide it.

Step 10: Employment terms confirmation

While the Law Society does not negotiate your pay, it may ask for confirmation that your articles are paid and sustainable. Include a simple statement:

• The student is employed full-time as an articled student.
• Compensation and benefits are set out in the employment letter dated [date].
• The placement provides the resources to meet training goals.

Do not attach confidential salary details unless the form requests them. Keep your employment letter on hand in case it is requested.

Step 11: Attach schedules and supporting documents

Attach the items the form expects. Common attachments include:

• Schedule A: Training plan and competency map.
• Schedule B: Remote supervision plan (if applicable).
• Schedule C: Interim assignment plan (if temporary).
• Schedule D: Any conditions or accommodations approved by the Law Society.
• Confirmation of professional liability insurance coverage for the student.
• Confirmation of conflicts clearance (internal memo is usually sufficient).
• Updated PLTC enrollment or plan if changed.

Label each attachment clearly. Reference each schedule in the body of the form.

Step 12: Complete declarations and undertakings

You will see declarations for you and your principal(s). Read each one. Typical confirmations include:

• All information is true and complete.
• The principal will provide active supervision and training.
• The student will comply with the Code of Professional Conduct.
• The placement will meet Law Society requirements.
• Any changes will be reported promptly.

Do not modify these declarations unless the form provides a section for explanations. If a declaration needs context, add a short note in the space provided and attach details.

Step 13: Signatures and dates

The form usually requires signatures from:

• You, the articled student.
• Your current principal, acknowledging the assignment.
• Your proposed principal, accepting supervision.
• An authorized representative of the incoming organization, if the form asks for it.

Sign and date in the correct spots. Use ink if filing on paper. If electronic signatures are allowed, follow the signature instructions exactly. Ensure dates align with the effective date of assignment.

Step 14: Submit and track approval

Submit the full package as instructed on the form. Pay any required fee. Keep a complete copy for your records. Do not start under the new principal until you receive confirmation of approval, unless the Law Society explicitly permits a temporary arrangement pending approval.

If timing is tight, let the Law Society know your target effective date. Provide any extra information they request quickly. Approval is faster when the file is complete and organized.

Practical examples to guide your entries

• Principal leave: “Principal will take parental leave from May 1 to August 31. Partner X will supervise from May 1 to August 31. Articles will revert to original principal on September 1. No change to PLTC timing.”
• Firm change: “Student will transfer to ABC LLP effective June 15. Proposed principal is Jane Doe, member no. [number]. Remaining articles: 4.5 months. Training plan attached. Conflicts cleared on June 1. Insurance confirmation attached.”
• Split articles: “Student completed 5 months in litigation under John Smith. Student will complete 4 months in corporate under Priya Patel. Competency plan attached. No PLTC change.”
• Remote arrangement: “Student will work two days remote and three days in-office. Daily check-ins at 9:00 a.m., weekly file reviews on Fridays. Secure document platform in place. Remote supervision plan attached.”

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Missing effective date. Always state the exact date the new principal takes over.
• Vague training plan. Be specific about tasks, files, and feedback.
• Ratio issues. Confirm the proposed principal’s student load and capacity.
• Conflicts not addressed. Document that you cleared conflicts before the transfer.
• PLTC mismatch. Align articling dates and PLTC timing. Update if anything changes.
• Starting early. Wait for approval unless you have written permission to start.

Final check before you file

• Names, member numbers, and contact details are correct for all parties.
• Dates align across the form, schedules, and employment letter.
• Training plan clearly supports your remaining competencies.
• All required signatures and dates are present.
• Attachments are labeled and referenced.
• You have a complete copy for your records.

File promptly once signed. Early submission reduces the risk of a credit gap. If you face a sudden change, notify the Law Society at once and submit as soon as you can. Clear communication and a complete package usually lead to a smooth approval.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter (DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement)

• Articles of clerkship means your training agreement as an articled student. This form moves that agreement to a new principal. It records the change so your training continues.
• Assignment means the transfer of your articles from one principal to another. You request that transfer using this form. The assignment only takes effect once approved.
• Assignor means your current principal or firm. They agree to transfer responsibility for your training. They confirm your status and hours to date.
• Assignee means your new principal or firm. They accept responsibility for your training. They confirm they can supervise you and meet all requirements.
• Principal means the lawyer who supervises your articling. They guide your work and evaluate your progress. Both the former and new principals appear in this form.
• Effective date means the date the assignment starts. You set it in the form and align it with your employment dates. Approval must cover that date for your hours to count.
• Good standing means the principal meets all regulatory duties. They must have no suspensions or restrictions that affect supervision. The new principal confirms this in the form.
• Continuity of articles means your articling time continues without a gap. The form helps protect that continuity. You still must stop work if approval is not in place.
• Consent means each party agrees to the assignment. You, the assignor, and the assignee all sign. The regulator must also approve before the change becomes valid.
• Supervision plan means how your new principal will train you. It covers oversight, work types, and competencies. The form asks for enough detail to show proper supervision.
• Competencies mean the skills you must learn during articles. Your new principal must offer work that covers those skills. The form signals that plan and your training goals.
• Leave or interruption means time away from articles. Record any leave that affects your hours or dates. The form helps the regulator track your overall timeline.
• Undertaking means a promise made in the form. Principals may promise to supervise and report on your progress. Breaking an undertaking can carry professional consequences.

FAQs

Do you need approval before you move?

Yes. You need written approval before you start under a new principal. If you move early, your time may not count. Plan a buffer between jobs and approval.

Do you lose articling time when you assign your articles?

No, you should not lose time if approval covers the effective date. Any unapproved work may not count. Align dates and avoid gaps to protect continuity.

Do you need a reason for the assignment?

Yes. You should give a clear, concise reason. Examples include relocation, practice fit, or staffing changes. Keep it factual and professional on the form.

Do you need both principals to sign?

Yes. The current principal must consent to the transfer. The new principal must accept responsibility. Your signature confirms your agreement to the change.

Can you backdate the effective date?

Do not backdate. Use a future or current date that can be approved. Hours before approval may not count. Always match employment start and approval timing.

Is there a filing fee for this form?

There may be a fee. Check the current fee schedule before you submit. If a fee applies, pay it with the submission. Keep a receipt with your records.

How long does approval take?

Processing times vary with volume and completeness. Submit early and avoid missing information. Respond fast to any follow-up requests to reduce delays.

Can you assign your articles more than once?

You can request another assignment if needed. Frequent changes can slow your training and raise concerns. Keep moves to a minimum and document each reason.

Do you need to notify clients?

Discuss any client handovers with both firms. Respect confidentiality and conflicts rules. Your principals will guide file transfers and notifications.

Do you need to submit proof of hours to date?

You may need to confirm your hours and start date. Keep your timesheets and training logs current. The form may ask for your accumulated time.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

Before signing

• Confirm your articling start date, anticipated end date, and hours to date.
• Get the current principal’s full name, contact details, and membership number.
• Get the new principal’s full name, contact details, and membership number.
• Confirm both principals are in good standing and able to supervise.
• Align the effective date with your employment start at the new firm.
• Prepare a brief, factual reason for the assignment.
• Draft a supervision plan with the new principal.
• Identify the practice areas and competencies you will cover.
• Check for conflicts of interest at the new firm.
• Clarify your pay, benefits, and vacation at the new firm.
• Gather any performance reports or evaluations from your current principal.
• Confirm any leave taken or planned that affects your timeline.
• Verify that your contact information and address are current.
• Ask about any fee and the accepted payment method.
• Book time with both principals to review and sign.

During signing

• Check the correct form title and latest version.
• Verify your legal name and contact details.
• Confirm both principals’ names and membership numbers.
• Match dates across all sections, including the effective date.
• Ensure the reason for assignment is clear and professional.
• Confirm the supervision plan is realistic and specific.
• Verify that the new principal can offer required competencies.
• Check every mandatory field and remove all blanks.
• Review any undertakings for accuracy and feasibility.
• Confirm who will file the form and pay any fee.
• Initial any changes in ink, if you sign on paper.
• Sign and date in all required places.
• Obtain all signatures in the correct sequence.
• Make legible copies for your records before submission.

After signing

• File the form using the accepted method and address.
• Pay any required fee and keep proof of payment.
• Request written confirmation of receipt and approval.
• Do not start under the new principal until approval arrives.
• Notify HR or payroll at both firms of your transition date.
• Update your email, phone, and mailing address as needed.
• Transfer personal training logs and timesheets securely.
• Document which files you can continue to work on.
• Follow conflict screening and confidentiality protocols.
• Set an onboarding meeting with your new principal.
• Update your training plan and competency targets.
• Diary your new end date and key reporting milestones.
• Store a signed copy of the form in a secure drive and binder.
• Share copies only with parties who need them.
• Review your first month goals with your new principal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

Don’t forget to match dates across the form.

• If dates conflict, approval can be delayed. You may also risk lost hours. Confirm the effective date, start date, and end date.

Don’t submit without all signatures.

• Missing signatures make the form invalid. Processing stops until you fix it. Get all three signatures and date them.

Don’t backdate the effective date.

• Backdating can invalidate hours and invite questions. Use a current or future date only. Wait for approval before you move.

Don’t leave the supervision plan vague.

• A weak plan can stall approval. It can also limit your competency coverage. Specify practice areas, supervision methods, and checkpoints.

Don’t switch work before approval.

• If you start early, your time may not count. You could breach your current agreement. Wait for written approval before you transition.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form DM4406620 – Application for Assignment of Articles Agreement

1. Submit the form promptly. Use the approved filing method and include any fee. Keep a full copy of what you sent.
2. Track confirmation. Ask for written receipt and expected timing. Follow up if you do not hear back within a reasonable time.
3. Pause the move until approval. Do not begin under the new principal early. Confirm the effective date in writing before your first day.
4. Coordinate your exit. Agree on your last day, handovers, and file notes. Return firm property and close your time entries cleanly.
5. Plan your onboarding. Meet your new principal before day one. Align expectations, training goals, and reporting checkpoints.
6. Update your training plan. Map competencies you still need. Schedule rotations or files that will cover those gaps.
7. Align your employment documents. Sign your new offer and any policies. Set your pay cycle, benefits, and vacation carryover.
8. Address conflicts and confidentiality. Complete conflict checks. Get instructions on restricted matters and screens.
9. Transfer your learning records. Move your timesheets and competency logs. Keep prior evaluations and reference letters.
10. Diary critical dates. Note your new end date and reporting deadlines. Set monthly check-ins with your principal.
11. Notify relevant contacts. Share your new contact details with those who need them. Keep client communications professional and approved.
12. Store records safely. Keep the signed form, approvals, and receipts. Save digital copies with clear file names and dates.
13. Monitor your hours after the move. Confirm your time continues to count. Report any interruptions or leave promptly.
14. If details change, amend fast. Update the regulator if dates shift. File an amendment using the accepted process.