Statutory Declaration for LSO Licence Reinstatement

A Statutory Declaration for Reinstatement of LSO Licence Status is a solemn statement made by a lawyer or paralegal applying to restore their licence with the Law Society of Ontario. It sets out relevant facts about the applicant's conduct, employment, and circumstances since their licence lapsed, and forms part of the reinstatement application package reviewed by the Law Society.

The declaration carries the same legal weight as sworn testimony. It is made under the Canada Evidence Act and the Commissioners for Taking Affidavits Act, meaning a false statement is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada.

Any lawyer or paralegal licensed by the Law Society of Ontario whose licence is no longer active may need to file a statutory declaration as part of their reinstatement application. The circumstances that lead to a licence lapsing vary.

The Law Society does not prescribe a single universal template. Requirements depend on the reason for the lapse and the length of absence. However, most reinstatement declarations address the following areas. If the LSO has given you specific instructions, bring those to the appointment so the declaration matches their expectations.

A notary public commissions the declaration but cannot advise you on what to write. We verify your identity, administer the solemn declaration, watch you sign, and apply the seal. If you need help deciding what facts to include or how to frame your application, speak with a practising lawyer who handles Law Society regulatory matters before your appointment.

The Law Society relies on the declaration as evidence when deciding whether to grant reinstatement. Accuracy and completeness are critical. Omitting material facts can be as damaging as a false statement.

Have these items ready so the commissioning can proceed without delay.

The notary verifies your identity, confirms you understand the legal consequences of a false declaration, watches you sign, and completes the jurat. Virtual commissioning is available under O. Reg. 431/20 if both you and the notary are in Ontario during the session.

Our fee is a flat $19.90 per stamp. A single statutory declaration with one jurat requires one stamp. The commissioned document is then submitted to the Law Society as part of your reinstatement file.

Making a false statutory declaration is an offence under section 134 of the Criminal Code of Canada, carrying a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment. Beyond criminal liability, a false or misleading declaration in a reinstatement application could result in the Law Society denying your application outright or pursuing further disciplinary action. Be thorough, be honest, and consult legal counsel if you are uncertain about any fact.