Advisories December 2020 NCA Update
The Federation of Law Societies of Canada continues to closely monitor the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and take steps to prioritize the health and safety of our clients, staff, and the community-at-large. The offices of the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) will close for the holidays and, in compliance with government of Ontario orders, remain closed until further notice.
Most members of our staff will continue to work remotely and as much of the NCA work as possible will continue. The January examination session will take place as scheduled and registration for the February examinations remains open until January 5, 2021. However, some activities cannot be completed during the government ordered shut down. These include receiving and processing mail and assessing files. The NCA will resume these activities as soon as the office is permitted to reopen. Over 370 assessment reports were issued in December; those applicants who were assigned examinations are able to register for the February exam session.
The NCA is processing requests for Certificates of Qualification from candidates who completed their requirements with the August and September exams, but will not be able to produce a paper version of the Certificates during the shut down. Law societies will continue to be notified by email of all applicants who are eligible for their Certificate. The next major law society deadline is in Ontario for the Barrister winter examination. The Law Society of Ontario will accept registrations for the exam based on the NCA email notification of eligibility for a Certificate.
We understand that this is a stressful time for all NCA candidates and we are committed to ensuring that you have the information you need in a timely way.