Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial

Jurisdiction: Canada | Province: British Columbia

What is a Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial?

This form records a new address for the attorney for service of an extraprovincial company in British Columbia. The “attorney” in this context is not your legal counsel. It is the local individual (or local corporate agent) authorized to accept legal documents in BC on behalf of your company. Extraprovincial means your company was formed outside BC and is registered to carry on business in BC.

This notice tells the provincial corporate registry where legal notices can be delivered to your attorney for service after an address change. It keeps public records current. It ensures courts, regulators, and the public can serve your company at the correct BC address.

You typically use this form if your appointed attorney for service has moved offices, changed civic location details, or updated the mailing address. It is not the form you use to replace your attorney. It only updates that attorney’s address information. If your attorney has resigned or you need to appoint a new one, a different filing is required.

Who usually uses this form?

Corporate secretaries, in‑house counsel, paralegals, and small business owners managing extraprovincial registrations use it. Law firms and corporate service providers file it on behalf of clients. The attorney for service may also initiate the change and sign the notice.

You need this form to avoid misdirected service and compliance issues. If the address on file is outdated, important documents may go to the wrong place. Your company could miss deadlines or face default judgments. A current address of attorney protects your right to receive notice and respond.

Typical scenarios

• A move to a new office suite in the same building
• A shift from one city to another
• A change from a residential address to a commercial service address
• You might also update the mailing address while keeping the delivery address the same

The form supports all of these updates. It creates a clear, dated record of where service can occur going forward.

When Would You Use a Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial?

You use this form any time the address of your attorney for service changes. Use it even for minor changes, such as a different suite number, a civic renumbering, or a postal code update. The address of attorney is for formal service. Precision matters. If the physical delivery location is no longer correct, you must update the record.

You also use this form when the attorney keeps the same physical address, but the mailing address changes. Many attorneys want legal documents served at a street address, but mail sent to a post office box. The form lets you set both. If the mailing address changes due to a new box number or postal outlet, file the notice.

You do not use this form to register a new attorney. If your attorney has left BC, resigned, or no longer qualifies, this form will not fix that. You would need to appoint a new eligible attorney first. You then file the appropriate appointment or change of attorney documentation.

Who are the typical users?

A corporate secretary managing a national company’s BC filings would use it after the BC agent moves. A small Alberta corporation registered in BC would use it when its BC attorney relocates to a new address. A law firm acting as attorney would file it when it consolidates offices. A compliance manager at a US corporation would use it to keep the public service address current after a move.

You should not wait to file. Submit the notice as soon as the address changes. That reduces the risk of missed service and regulatory issues. If you discover that an old address is still on file, file the change now. Do not rely on mail forwarding or informal notice.

Legal Characteristics of the Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial

This notice is a statutory filing. It updates the official record of service for your extraprovincial company. Once accepted by the registry, the new address becomes the public address for serving legal documents on your company through its attorney. That makes it functionally binding for service and compliance purposes.

What ensures enforceability?

First, the form requires clear identification of the company and the appointed attorney. That links the filing to the correct registration. Second, the notice must provide a valid BC street address for delivery. Service of legal documents must be possible at a physical location in BC. A mailing address alone is not enough. Third, an authorized person must sign and date the notice. That certification supports the accuracy and integrity of the filing.

Accuracy is essential. If you list an address that is not staffed during business hours, you risk missed service. If you provide a P.O. Box as the delivery address, service may fail. If the address is not in BC, the filing will not meet the requirement for a BC service address. Keep the distinction clear: delivery address must be a physical BC location. Mailing address can be different.

Timeliness matters. You should file promptly after the change occurs. Delays increase risk. If someone serves documents at the old address on record, that service may be treated as valid. Your company could be bound by deadlines it never saw. The registry may also impose compliance consequences for late updates.

Privacy expectations are limited. The address of attorney is part of the public record. Anyone who needs to serve your company may rely on it. Plan for that visibility. Choose a professional service address if privacy is a concern.

This filing does not modify your company’s internal governance or ownership. It also does not change your registered office or records office. It only updates the address of the appointed attorney for service for your extraprovincial registration. If you also need to change other addresses, file those changes using the proper forms.

How to Fill Out a Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial

1) Confirm you are using the correct form

• Use this form only to change the attorney’s address. Do not use it to appoint or remove an attorney. Do not use it to change your registered office. If the attorney has changed, use the appointment or change of attorney process.

2) Gather required information

• Extraprovincial company legal name. Use the exact name on record. Include the jurisdictional ending if part of the name.
• BC registration or continuation number. This is the unique number assigned to your extraprovincial registration in BC.
• Full name of the attorney for service. Use the name on record. If the attorney’s legal name has changed, address that first through the proper process.
• New delivery address for service in BC. This must be a physical civic address in BC. Include unit or suite number, street, city, and postal code. Do not use a P.O. Box here.
• Mailing address (if different). You can use a P.O. Box for mailing. If you leave it blank, mailing equals delivery.
• Effective date of the address change. Use the actual date when the attorney began receiving documents at the new address.
• Contact details for the filer. Provide a name, phone, and email in case the registry needs clarification.

3) Complete the company identification section

• Enter the exact corporate name as registered in BC. Match punctuation and spacing. This avoids processing delays.
• Enter the BC registration number accurately. Double‑check digits. A wrong number may misdirect the filing.

4) Identify the attorney for service

• Enter the attorney’s full legal name. If the attorney is an individual, include first, middle (if used), and last name. If the attorney is a corporate agent, enter its legal name.
• Confirm that this is the same attorney already on file. This form does not change the appointed person or entity.

5) Enter the new delivery address for service

• Provide the full street address where documents can be delivered in person. Include the unit, floor, or suite if relevant. Confirm that reception or staff can accept documents during business hours.
• Ensure the address is in British Columbia. Cross‑check the city and postal code.
• Avoid common errors. Do not list a virtual mailbox. Do not list a drop box or kiosk. Do not list a “care of” address that is not staffed by the attorney or their agent.

6) Enter the mailing address (optional if same as delivery)

• If mailing should go to a different location, complete this section. A P.O. Box is acceptable for mailing. Include the full mailing details and postal code.
• If you leave this section blank, the mailing address defaults to the delivery address.

7) State the effective date

• Enter the date the attorney started operating at the new address. This creates a clear timeline for service. If the move is upcoming, you can set a future date. Ensure the date is realistic and aligns with your move.

8) Review compliance details

• Verify that the attorney still qualifies to act. They should remain located in BC and be available for service.
• Confirm that the delivery address is a physical BC location. Many rejections occur due to incorrect address types.

9) Prepare the certification and signature

• The form must be signed by an authorized person. That can be a director or officer of the extraprovincial company. The attorney for service may also sign, where allowed. Choose a signatory with authority and knowledge.
• Print the signatory’s name and title clearly. Add the signing date and a contact phone number or email.
• A wet ink signature is typically required for paper filings. For electronic filings, follow the signature instructions provided in the filing system.

10) Attach supporting documents if needed

• You normally do not need supporting documents for an address update. If the registry requests proof of address or authority, be ready to provide it.
• If an internal resolution authorized the change, keep it in your records. You do not need to file internal resolutions unless requested.

11) Pay the filing fee

• A filing fee may apply. Prepare the approved payment method. If filing by mail, include the payment as instructed on the form. If filing electronically, pay through the filing system.

12) File the notice

• You can file electronically or by mail, depending on your method. If filing on paper, send the original signed form. Allow time for processing. If filing electronically, confirm receipt in the system.
• Keep a copy of the filed form and proof of submission. Save any receipt, transaction number, or confirmation.

13) Confirm the registry update

• Check the public record after processing to ensure the new address appears. Verify both delivery and mailing address. Correct any errors with an immediate follow‑up filing.
• Notify internal teams of the change. Update your internal service instructions and legal notice procedures.

14) Update related documents and third parties

• Update the attorney address on your letterhead, invoices, and contract templates where service details appear.
• Inform opposing counsel, insurers, and other third parties who may serve documents. This reduces the chance of mis‑service.

15) Keep your compliance calendar current

• Record the filing date and the new address in your compliance tracker. Review the address annually to confirm it remains correct.
• Plan for future moves. If your attorney expects relocation, set reminders to prepare the next filing in advance.

Practical tips

• Use a staffed delivery address. Service often occurs during business hours. Ensure someone can accept documents every weekday.
• Use precise unit numbers. A missing suite number can cause service failures or misdelivery.
• Use consistent naming. The attorney’s name on the form should match the name on the original appointment.
• Keep the effective date clear. Do not backdate or postdate without justification. Aim for accuracy.
• Communicate internally. Tell your reception and mailroom where to send served documents. Time is critical once service occurs.

Common mistakes

• Listing a P.O. Box as delivery. Always use a physical street address for delivery.
• Using an out‑of‑province address. The attorney must have a BC delivery address for service.
• Missing signatures or titles. Always include the printed name and title of the signer.
• Wrong company number. Verify the BC registration number against your records before filing.
• Waiting too long to file. File promptly to protect your right to receive timely notice.

What happens after filing?

• The registry reviews the form. If complete and compliant, it updates the public record.
• From the effective date recorded, service on the attorney at the new address will be treated as proper service. Your company can be bound by documents served at that address.
• If the registry finds errors, it may reject or pend the filing. Respond to any request for clarification quickly to avoid gaps in service coverage.

Special cases

• If your attorney now works from a home office, confirm the address can accept service during business hours. Some attorneys prefer a commercial address to ensure coverage.
• If your attorney moves outside BC, you cannot use this form to keep them as attorney. You need a new BC‑based attorney and separate filings.
• If the attorney is a corporate agent that rebrands, confirm whether only the address changed. If the legal entity changed, you may need a new appointment.

By following these steps, you keep your extraprovincial records accurate and your service address reliable. You reduce risk, protect due process, and maintain good standing. Keep the notice concise, correct, and filed without delay.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Attorney for service means the individual you appoint to receive official documents in the province. On this form, you report the attorney’s new address so legal notices reach the right place without delay.
• Extraprovincial company refers to a company formed outside the province that has registered to do business in the province. This form applies to that company when its appointed attorney for service changes address within the province.
• Service of documents is the official delivery of legal or government notices. The address you list for the attorney is where these documents can be delivered. If you list the wrong address, service may still be deemed effective, and you could miss deadlines.
• Delivery address is a physical location where someone can deliver documents in person during business hours. For this form, the delivery address must be precise and complete. Include unit or suite numbers to avoid misdelivery.
• Mailing address is the address used for postal delivery. For the attorney, you may list a mailing address in addition to the delivery address. Many registries allow a post office box for mailing but not for delivery. Ensure both are current.
• Effective date is the date the change of address takes effect. Some registries treat the filing date as the effective date. Others allow you to specify a future date. Use this field carefully if you need a coordinated transition.
• Authorized signatory is the person who signs the form for the extraprovincial company. This person confirms the accuracy of the new address. Make sure they have authority under your internal signing rules.
• Consent is the attorney’s agreement to act at the specified address. While this form reports an address change, you should keep written consent for your records. It proves the attorney agrees to receive documents at the new location.
• Registered office and records office are addresses kept on file for a company’s own registration. They are different from the address of the attorney for service. Changing the attorney’s address does not change your registered or records office addresses.
• Registry acknowledgement is the confirmation you receive after filing. It could be a receipt, a notice of filing, or an updated company profile. Keep it with your corporate records to show the change is on file.

FAQs

Do you need to file the form if only the suite number changed?

Yes. A unit or suite change is a change of address. File the form so couriers and process servers can find the attorney without confusion.

Do you need the attorney to sign this form?

You usually do not need the attorney to sign the form. Still, obtain the attorney’s written confirmation of the new address. Keep it with your records in case of questions later.

Can you use a post office box for the attorney’s address?

Use a post office box only for the mailing address, if permitted. The delivery address should be a physical location where someone can accept documents in person during business hours.

Can the attorney’s delivery address be outside the province?

The attorney for service exists to receive documents inside the province. The delivery address is usually within the province. If the attorney moves out of province, appoint an attorney with an in‑province delivery address and update the registry.

Is there a deadline to file after the address changes?

File as soon as the address changes. Many registries expect prompt updates to keep records accurate. Delays can result in missed notices or compliance issues.

Is there a fee to file this form?

A filing fee may apply. Confirm the current fee with the registry before you submit. Budget for payment at the time of filing.

Do you have to update anything else when the address changes?

Yes. Update your company minute book, internal contact lists, and any standing instructions for service. Notify your legal team, insurers, and counterparties who may rely on the attorney’s address.

What if you filed the form with a typo?

Correct it as soon as you discover the error. File a correction or a new change notice, depending on registry options. Keep a record of the correction to show your diligence.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial

Before signing

• Confirm the full legal name of the extraprovincial company.
• Verify the current attorney’s name exactly as on file.
• Collect the new delivery address, including unit and postal code.
• Collect the mailing address, if different from delivery.
• Get written confirmation from the attorney that the address is correct.
• Identify the effective date for the change, if you plan one.
• Confirm the authorized signatory for the company.
• Check whether multiple attorneys exist and whether more than one has moved.
• Review the registry’s current fee and acceptable payment methods.
• Prepare your internal reference number for tracking.

During signing

• Check that the company name and registration number are accurate.
• Confirm the attorney’s name matches your registry profile.
• Enter the delivery address in full. Avoid abbreviations that obscure location.
• Enter the mailing address only if different and needed.
• Verify the effective date. Use today’s date if you need immediate effect.
• Confirm the signatory’s name and title. Ensure the signature is legible.
• Review the certification statement. You are confirming accuracy.
• Add a contact email and phone number for filing queries, if applicable.

After signing

• Submit the form using the registry’s accepted method.
• Pay the filing fee and collect the receipt.
• Note the submission date and time for your records.
• Watch for registry acknowledgement or an updated profile.
• Save the acknowledgement with your corporate minute book.
• Notify the attorney that the filing is complete.
• Inform internal teams who handle service, litigation, and compliance.
• Update company stationery and templates that reference the attorney’s address.
• Update instructions with couriers or process servers, if any.
• Calendar a follow-up to confirm the change appears on the public record.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t forget the unit or suite number. Missing a unit number can derail delivery. Documents may be returned or misdelivered. You risk missing deadlines.
• Don’t list a post office box as the delivery address. Couriers cannot serve at a box. Service may be attempted at the wrong place, causing delay and cost.
• Don’t assume changing the attorney’s address updates your registered office. These are separate records. Failing to update both when needed creates conflicting public data.
• Don’t skip internal approvals. If the wrong person signs, the filing may be rejected. Even if accepted, you may breach your internal controls.
• Don’t delay filing until after the move. A gap between the move and the filing increases risk. Time‑sensitive documents could go to the old address.

What to Do After Filling Out Form 12 – REG 762 – Notice of Change of Address of Attorney – Extraprovincial

1. File the form promptly through the registry’s accepted channel. Pay the fee and capture the receipt with your internal reference.
2. Track acceptance. Monitor for an acknowledgement or profile update. If you do not receive confirmation within a reasonable time, follow up. Keep all correspondence.
3. Notify the attorney. Confirm the registry now shows the new address. Ask the attorney to test delivery with a routine letter or courier to ensure access works.
4. Update internal records. Enter the new address in your minute book. Update your corporate data systems, contract templates, litigation holds, and matter management tools.
5. Inform stakeholders. Tell your legal team, outside counsel, insurers, and critical vendors. Update standing service instructions in any ongoing proceedings.
6. Review related addresses. If your registered office or records office also changed, file the appropriate forms for those addresses. Keep each filing distinct to avoid confusion.
7. Audit public listings. Check any public profiles or directories you maintain. Make sure the attorney’s address appears consistently across materials.
8. Set reminders. Calendar a periodic review of all corporate addresses. Confirm they remain current with the attorney and the registry.
9. Plan for transitions. If the attorney plans another move, set a change schedule. Prepare a draft notice and internal approvals in advance to avoid gaps.
10. Handle corrections. If you spot an error after filing, submit a correction or a new notice quickly. Keep a paper trail showing who fixed the issue and when.
11. Distribute copies. Send the filed form and acknowledgement to your corporate records custodian. Provide a copy to the attorney, your compliance lead, and your external advisors.
12. Confirm service readiness. Ask the attorney to confirm business hours and reception procedures. Ensure someone can accept documents at the new location without delay.
13. Prepare contingency details. Document a secondary contact person at the attorney’s office. Add phone and email details for urgent service issues.
14. Maintain consent documentation. Keep the attorney’s written consent to act at the new address. Store it with the minutes approving the change.
15. Align with insurance and banking. Update the attorney’s address on claim instructions and standing banking resolutions, if referenced. Keep proof of updates.
16. Reconcile invoices. If the filing generated charges, match the receipt to your cost center. Close the task in your compliance tracker.
17. Final check. Two weeks after filing, verify the registry still shows the correct address. Confirm with the attorney that deliveries are reaching them as expected.