DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit

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

What is a DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit?

This form lets a lawyer who is licensed outside British Columbia obtain permission to practise law in BC on a temporary basis. It is a regulatory application to the legal regulator in BC. When approved, it grants you a defined right to practise within set limits and for a set period, without becoming a full BC member.

You typically use it if you are a lawyer in good standing in another Canadian province or territory and you need to work on a BC matter beyond the time or activity allowed without a permit. You also use it if you are from a jurisdiction that does not have mobility arrangements with BC and you want to do any legal work in BC. Some foreign lawyers apply to handle a specific matter, usually alongside a BC lawyer, where local rules require permission before you act.

You might need this permit to appear in a BC court, conduct an arbitration seated in BC, complete transactions that have material BC elements, advise a BC client on BC law, or carry out discovery, mediations, or negotiations in BC. It also covers certain secondments and in-house assignments where you are physically in BC or present a practice presence in BC. The permit is designed for temporary, matter-specific work. It is not a pathway to open a BC office or set up an ongoing BC practice. If you intend to live in BC or practise here indefinitely, you would pursue transfer or admission instead of a temporary permit.

Typical usage scenarios

• A litigator from another province who needs to conduct a multi-day hearing in Vancouver
• A corporate lawyer who will spend several weeks in BC closing an acquisition with BC assets
• A construction lawyer advising on a BC project with on-site meetings in BC
• A foreign counsel joining a BC team on a dispute where the tribunal sits in BC

In each case, you ask for limited, time-bound permission, confirm insurance and good standing, agree to follow BC rules, and respect the scope of the permit.

When Would You Use a DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit?

You use this form when your planned work triggers BC’s temporary practice rules. For many Canadian lawyers from reciprocating jurisdictions, you may be allowed to practise in BC for a short period without a permit. If your work exceeds that allowance, or your situation falls outside it, you apply for the permit before you continue. For example, you might already have spent the allowed number of days in BC this year on other matters. Or your current mandate will exceed that allowance. The permit lets you complete the work without interrupting service to your client.

If you are from a non-reciprocating Canadian jurisdiction or a foreign jurisdiction, you generally need this permit before you do any legal work in BC. That includes giving BC law advice, filing documents, negotiating settlements for a BC dispute, or handling closings that require your presence or legal work in BC. You may also need this permit even if you are outside BC but maintain a temporary “practice presence” in BC through repeated in-person activity or marketing that targets BC clients. The key question is whether, in substance, you will practise law in BC or on BC matters in a way that requires BC oversight.

Litigators often use this permit when a court, tribunal, or arbitration is in BC and they intend to appear or lead the file. You may still need separate permission from the court or tribunal to appear, but that permission does not replace this regulatory permit. Transactional lawyers rely on it when a deal or financing has a strong BC nexus and they need to be on the ground for negotiations or signings. In-house counsel use it when they are seconded into BC operations for a time-limited project, or when they must attend in BC to handle regulatory interactions, interviews, or critical meetings that involve legal advice.

Outside counsel and in-house counsel alike also use it for regulatory hearings, mediation sessions, and discovery conducted in BC. If you plan to open a temporary “war room” in a BC hotel for an intensive week of work on a BC matter, you should consider whether the permit is required. If you intend to hold yourself out as counsel on a BC matter and participate in core legal steps while in BC, the permit is the safe and compliant route.

Legal Characteristics of the DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit

This application is a regulatory filing. Once granted, the permit is a formal authorization that allows you to practise within defined limits. It is legally binding because it flows from the legislation and rules that govern the practice of law in BC. By applying, you submit to the jurisdiction of the BC regulator for the period and scope of the permit. By accepting, you agree to comply with BC professional standards, including insurance, trust handling, confidentiality, conflicts, and advertising rules.

Enforceability rests on several elements. First, you must be in good standing in your home jurisdiction. You provide recent proof of that status. Second, you must have professional liability insurance that covers your activities in BC to required limits, or you must satisfy the regulator that equivalent protection is in place. Third, you must give undertakings in the application that you will comply with BC rules while practising under the permit. If you breach those undertakings, the regulator can revoke the permit, impose conditions, or discipline you. Courts and tribunals in BC also recognize the permit as the mechanism that allows non-BC lawyers to act, subject to any separate appearance leave they require.

The permit has limits. It covers a defined timeframe, specified activities, and sometimes specific matters. It does not let you open or advertise a BC office, set up a BC trust account, or present yourself as a BC lawyer. It usually prohibits you from handling client trust funds except through a BC lawyer’s trust account and within BC trust rules. It does not insulate you from court rules on appearances or from immigration or work authorization rules that may apply if you are a foreign national. It simply authorizes you, as a lawyer, to practise law in BC temporarily under regulator oversight.

General legal considerations include conflicts management across jurisdictions, confidentiality and privilege protection when working with BC co-counsel, records retention that meets BC standards, and client communication that clearly explains your status and the scope of your authorization. You should also track your days and activities in BC to show compliance with time limits. If your mandate grows, you may need to extend or reapply before the permit expires. If your status changes in your home jurisdiction, you must notify the BC regulator immediately.

How to Fill Out a DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit

Follow these steps to complete the form accurately and avoid delays:

1) Confirm you need the permit

• Map your planned BC activities. Identify whether you will give BC law advice, appear before a BC court or tribunal, conduct discovery or mediations in BC, or otherwise present a temporary practice presence in BC.
• Count any prior days you practised in BC this calendar year. If your current matter will exceed any no-permit allowance, you need the permit before you proceed.
• If you are from a non-reciprocating or foreign jurisdiction, plan to apply before you start any BC work.

2) Gather required information and documents

• Identification: Your full name, home jurisdiction bar number, firm or employer name, and contact details.
• Good standing: A recent certificate or letter from your home regulator confirming you are entitled to practise, with no outstanding restrictions. Obtain a version dated within the recent period specified by the regulator. If any conditions exist, be ready to explain them.
• Insurance: Proof of professional liability insurance that covers services provided in BC to minimum limits and with territorial scope that includes BC. Get a certificate from your insurer that states limits, retroactive date, and scope.
• Matter details: A concise description of the BC matter(s), including client name(s) if the form requires it, the nature of the legal services, and where activities will occur.
• Court or tribunal: If your work involves appearances, list the court, tribunal, or arbitration seat, file number if available, and expected dates.
• Agent for service: Identify a person or firm in BC who can receive documents for you. Often this is a BC lawyer or your co-counsel. Confirm their consent.
• Discipline and character: Details of any past or pending complaints, discipline, criminal charges, or findings. Prepare a short, factual explanation and supporting documents if applicable.
• Immigration or work status: If you are not a Canadian citizen or resident, ensure you can lawfully be in Canada for the duration of your activities. The form may ask you to confirm this.

3) Complete the applicant identification section (Parties)

• Enter your legal name exactly as it appears on your home licence. Include any former names if requested.
• Provide your firm or employer information, mailing address, email, and direct phone. If you are in-house, make that clear.
• List your home jurisdiction(s), bar number(s), and date of call or admission.

4) Describe the scope and duration of your BC practice

• State the start date and anticipated end date of your work in BC. Be realistic. Build in a buffer for adjournments or closing delays.
• Indicate the estimated number of days you will practise in BC during the permit period. Explain how you calculated this if the form asks.
• Specify the practice areas involved (e.g., civil litigation, corporate/commercial, construction, employment). Align this with your insurance coverage.

5) Identify the matters and activities covered (Schedules)

• If the form allows, attach a schedule with brief descriptions of each matter: client name, opposing party if relevant, forum, and core tasks (e.g., motion hearing, mediation, due diligence, closing).
• For court or tribunal matters, include file numbers and expected appearance dates. If seeking tribunal appearances, note any parallel requests for leave.
• Keep descriptions concise. Focus on the BC nexus and why your in-person or direct involvement is required.

6) Provide BC agent for service details

• Name a BC-based agent for service, with address and contact information. Obtain written consent if the form requires it.
• If you will work with a BC co-counsel, include their information. Clarify whether they will handle trust funds and filings on your behalf.

7) Confirm professional liability insurance

• Enter your insurer’s name, policy number, effective dates, per-claim and aggregate limits, and any deductibles.
• Confirm that your policy covers services performed in BC for clients located in BC. If not, arrange an endorsement or excess coverage and attach proof.
• If the regulator offers local indemnity for permit holders, follow the instructions to enroll or demonstrate equivalency.

8) Attach proof of good standing

• Upload or append your certificate of standing. Ensure it is recent and addressed as required.
• If you hold licences in multiple jurisdictions, provide certificates for each, especially if you will rely on work experience or coverage from them.

9) Make statutory and ethical disclosures (Clauses)

• Answer all questions on discipline history, charges, or complaints. If you have any, provide a clear, factual summary and attach decisions or orders.
• Disclose any practice restrictions, conditions, or supervision in your home jurisdiction. Explain how you will comply with them in BC.
• Confirm you have read and will comply with BC professional conduct rules while practising under the permit. This undertaking is a key clause.

10) Acknowledge practice conditions (Clauses)

• Agree not to open or advertise a BC office and not to hold out as a BC lawyer.
• Agree to handle any client trust funds only through a BC lawyer’s trust account, subject to BC trust accounting rules.
• Agree to cooperate with the regulator, produce records on request, and notify of any status changes or complaints during the permit period.
• Confirm you will notify the regulator if your timeline or scope changes and apply to extend if needed.

11) Privacy, consent, and jurisdiction

• Consent to the regulator contacting your home regulator(s) and insurer to verify your information.
• Acknowledge that the regulator has disciplinary jurisdiction over you for your BC activities and that sanctions can include suspension or revocation of the permit.

12) Fees and payment

• Review the current application fee and any assessments that apply to your permit type or duration.
• Pay by the accepted methods. Include proof of payment or complete the payment authorization on the form.

13) Sign and date the application (Signatures)

• Sign the applicant certification. Use your full legal name. If electronic signatures are accepted, follow the instructions.
• If the form asks your BC agent for service or co-counsel to sign, obtain their signature as well.
• If your employer needs to acknowledge your in-house status or indemnity, include that signature where required.

14) Final review and submission

• Check that names, dates, and file numbers match across the form and attachments.
• Confirm attachments are legible: insurance certificate, certificate(s) of standing, agent consent, matter schedule, and any explanatory letters.
• Submit through the required channel. Keep a complete copy of everything you filed.

15) After you apply: monitoring and follow-up

• Track confirmation of receipt and any assigned file number. Note the typical processing timeframe and plan your work accordingly. Do not practise in BC until you have authorization if your situation requires pre-approval.
• Respond quickly to any follow-up questions. Common requests involve clarifying insurance coverage, the scope of your activities, or the identity of your agent for service.

16) Once approved: practising under the permit

• Read the permit letter carefully. It will state the effective dates, permitted activities, any conditions, and reporting duties.
• Calendar the expiry date and any interim reporting or extension deadlines. Track each day you practise in BC and keep a running total.
• Coordinate with BC co-counsel on trust funds, filings, and court protocols. Obtain any separate leave required by a court or tribunal before you appear.

17) Changes, extensions, and renewals

• If your matter is adjourned or extended beyond the permit period, apply for an extension before the permit expires. Update your activity estimate.
• If your role expands to new matters not listed, file an amended schedule if the permit requires matter-specific approval.
• If you switch firms or your home jurisdiction status changes, notify the regulator immediately and follow any re-approval steps.

18) Recordkeeping and client communication

• Keep a detailed log of BC practice days, matters worked on, locations, and tasks performed. Retain proof of insurance and good standing for the permit period and any retention period the regulator specifies.
• Tell your client you are practising under a temporary BC permit. Explain any involvement of BC co-counsel and any limits on your role.

19) Compliance reminders to avoid issues

• Do not market yourself as a BC lawyer. Use accurate titles that reflect your home jurisdiction.
• Do not accept or disburse client trust funds directly. Use a BC lawyer’s trust account and follow their instructions.
• Do not open a BC office or maintain a continuous practice presence. Keep your work within the scope and timeframe of the permit.

20) Closing out the permit

• When your matter ends, confirm there are no outstanding trust or filing issues. Ensure all records are complete and stored appropriately.
• If the regulator requires a closing report or final confirmation, submit it on time.
• Review your day count and experience to plan future applications or, if your practice now requires it, consider transfer or admission into BC.

By approaching the form this way—confirming need, preparing the right documents, stating your scope clearly, and giving accurate undertakings—you minimize delays and reduce compliance risk. The permit lets you serve your client in BC while meeting local rules. Keep your activities within the permit’s limits, coordinate with BC counsel on court and trust requirements, and maintain clear records so you can demonstrate compliance at any time.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Inter‑jurisdictional practice means you provide legal services in a province where you are not licensed. DM3572302 is the application you use to request permission for that temporary work. The form asks you to set clear dates and describe the services you plan to deliver.
• Your home jurisdiction is where you currently hold your licence. You will provide your licence number, status, and regulator details for that jurisdiction in DM3572302. Your host jurisdiction is where you want to work under the permit. You will name that province in the form and confirm you will follow its rules.
• Good standing means your licence is active, fees are paid, and you are not suspended. DM3572302 requires you to confirm good standing and disclose any conditions on your licence. You often need a certificate or letter of standing. That document proves your status to the host regulator. The form will ask you to attach it or have it sent directly.
• Professional liability insurance covers claims that clients may bring against you. The form asks you to confirm coverage that applies in the host jurisdiction. You may need to list insurer details, policy number, and limits.
• Undertaking is a formal promise. In DM3572302, you promise to follow the host rules, limit your work to permitted scope, and report any changes. The declaration and signature sections capture that promise.
• Scope of practice defines the exact legal work you will do under the permit. The form asks you to describe it simply. Keep it specific and aligned with what the host permits. If court or tribunal appearances require special authorization, the form will direct you to request that.
• Temporary practice period is the time window when you can work. In DM3572302, you propose start and end dates and confirm you will stop when it expires. If you need more time, you apply to renew before expiry.
• Character and fitness questions cover discipline, criminal charges, or regulatory complaints. The form asks about past and pending matters. You must answer accurately and provide details or attachments when asked.
• Trust funds are client monies held in a designated account. Many permits restrict you from handling trust funds in the host jurisdiction. DM3572302 may ask you to confirm that you will not manage trust funds unless authorized.
• A sponsoring firm or local contact is a person or office in the host jurisdiction who will work with you. DM3572302 may ask for a name, address, and role. This helps the regulator confirm your point of contact and the nature of your work.
• Conditions on a permit are limits set by the host regulator. These may restrict duration, practice areas, or supervision. DM3572302 will note that you must follow any conditions imposed on approval. You agree to those conditions when you sign and submit.

FAQs

Do you need DM3572302 if you only advise by phone or email from your home province?

If your client matter is tied to the host jurisdiction, you usually need permission. That includes advice delivered remotely about host jurisdiction law. Use DM3572302 to request the permit before you advise.

Do you need a sponsoring firm to submit DM3572302?

Many regulators accept applications without a sponsor. Some ask for a host firm or contact if you plan to appear or handle regulated tasks. Check the form prompts. If asked, provide the host contact’s name and details.

Do you need to disclose discipline history on DM3572302?

Yes. You must disclose past or pending discipline, charges, or regulatory conditions. If something is confidential, state that and provide as much detail as allowed. Omitting material facts can lead to refusal.

Do you need proof of insurance to get the permit?

Yes. You must show active professional liability insurance that covers the host jurisdiction. DM3572302 asks for insurer details and limits. If your home policy excludes the host jurisdiction, arrange proper coverage first.

Do you need DM3572302 for a single court appearance?

Yes, if the appearance is in the host jurisdiction and you are not licensed there. Some tribunals or courts have extra steps. DM3572302 captures your request and helps the regulator confirm you meet any appearance rules.

Do you need to list client names on DM3572302?

Usually you do not. The form typically asks for a general description of services and the matter type. If the regulator requests more detail, provide it. Keep client secrecy and privilege in mind when describing the work.

Do you need to renew the permit if your matter runs long?

Yes. The permit has an expiry date. If your file will continue past that date, apply for renewal before it expires. DM3572302 allows you to state the period. Use the same form or a renewal process if provided.

Do you need to notify your insurer after the permit is issued?

Yes. Tell your insurer the host jurisdiction, dates, and scope of work. Confirm coverage applies for the entire permit period. Keep confirmation for your records in case of an audit or claim.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the DM3572302 – Application for Inter-Jurisdictional Practice Permit

Before you sign

• Identify your host jurisdiction and dates.
• Confirm the work fits temporary practice rules.
• Gather your home licence number and status.
• Obtain a recent certificate or letter of standing.
• Confirm your professional liability insurance covers the host jurisdiction.
• Prepare a plain-language scope of work description.
• List any discipline, charges, or complaints to disclose.
• Collect supporting documents for disclosures.
• Identify a host firm or contact if the form asks for one.
• Confirm fee amount, payment method, and billing details.
• Check if court or tribunal appearances need extra authorization.
• Note any conditions in your home jurisdiction that affect your work.
• Verify your firm’s conflict checks for the host matters.

During signing and completion

• Verify your full legal name matches your home licence.
• Confirm your contact information is current.
• Check the home and host jurisdiction fields for accuracy.
• Enter your licence number and regulator name correctly.
• Review the insurance section. Provide policy number and limits.
• Confirm your dates do not exceed the maximum period allowed.
• Describe your services clearly and briefly. Avoid client names.
• Answer all character and fitness questions fully and honestly.
• Attach each required document. Label each file or page clearly.
• Read the undertakings and declarations. Confirm you can comply.
• Initial any pages that require it.
• Sign and date in the correct places. Use ink or accepted e-signature.
• Complete the payment section. Confirm the fee amount and currency.
• Review the entire form once more for gaps or inconsistencies.

After signing

• File the form as instructed. Use the correct portal, email, or address.
• Pay the fee and keep the receipt or confirmation.
• Note the date and time submitted.
• Do not start work until the permit is granted.
• Watch for follow-up requests for information or documents.
• On approval, read all conditions in the permit.
• Record the permit number, dates, and conditions in your system.
• Notify your insurer, firm management, and billing team.
• Inform any host firm or contact of the effective dates and limits.
• Save the permit and all attachments to a secure matter file.
• Calendar the expiry date and a renewal reminder.
• Set an alert for any required reports or notifications to the regulator.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Starting work before approval

• Consequence: You risk unauthorized practice and possible discipline.
• Don’t forget: Wait for written confirmation of the permit.

Listing an overly broad scope of work

• Consequence: The regulator may delay or restrict approval.
• Don’t forget: Describe the services you actually plan to deliver.

Missing or outdated letter of standing

• Consequence: Your application may be refused or stalled.
• Don’t forget: Request a current letter and attach it as required.

Incorrect insurance details

• Consequence: The regulator may put your permit on hold.
• Don’t forget: Confirm host coverage and list policy number and limits.

Omitting discipline or charge disclosures

• Consequence: Non-disclosure can lead to refusal or later sanctions.
• Don’t forget: Answer every conduct question honestly and completely.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

File your application

• Submit DM3572302 exactly as instructed. Follow format and delivery rules.
• Include all attachments and the correct fee.
• Keep a copy of everything you submit.

Track your application

• Record the submission date and any reference number.
• Monitor your inbox for questions or decisions.
• Respond quickly to requests for clarification.

Hold work until approval

• Do not provide legal services in the host jurisdiction yet.
• If deadlines loom, alert your client and host contact.
• Adjust timelines and staffing as needed.

Review the permit on receipt

• Confirm the permit number, effective dates, and conditions.
• Compare approved scope to your application. Note any changes.
• Share the permit with your insurer, firm leadership, and billing.

Set up compliance controls

• Calendar the expiry date and renewal deadline.
• Add reminders for any required reports or notifications.
• Train your team on scope and conditions so they can triage work.

Update your matter plans

• Align staffing, budgets, and timelines with the permit window.
• Avoid tasks outside the approved scope.
• If scope changes, request an amendment before doing new work.

Handle amendments or extensions

• If you need more time, start the renewal process early.
• If your work changes, submit an updated scope for approval first.
• Keep written confirmation of any amendments.

Keep accurate records

• Save the permit, proof of filing, fee receipt, and insurer confirmation.
• Keep time entries that reflect the host jurisdiction and dates.
• Store all records in a secure, searchable file for audit readiness.

Close out when finished

• Stop work when the permit expires or the matter ends.
• If required, file any final report or notice of completion.
• Archive the permit file according to your retention policy.