The Practice Management Review Program was introduced in February 2020 as a tool to help members make their practices more efficient and effective.

Members can either be selected or required to undergo a practice management review. The selection criteria are found in rule 14.01A and are based on factors that often correlate with an increase in allegations, complaints and negligence claims. Members are required to undergo a practice management review if they start practising or switch to practising as a sole practitioner or in a firm with 4 or fewer other members – see rule 14.09A for more information.

The review is a one-on-one assessment of the management of the lawyer’s practice. A reviewer visits the member’s office and together with the member, they review a set of questions about practice management. Topics covered during the practice management review include:

• time management systems (tickler system, docketing, etc.);
• file management (organization, conflicts, undertakings, etc.);
• financial management (fees and billings, controls on accounts, etc.);
• client service (managing expectations, communication, etc.);
• technology and equipment (computers, software, etc.);
• professional management (supervision of others, continuing professional development, etc.); and
• personal management (coping with stress, professional assistance program, etc.).

The reviewer will provide suggestions and recommendations for improving the member’s practice and complete a report after the review. The report is delivered to the member and the Executive Director. The Executive Director may require the member to give an undertaking to rectify any deficiencies noted in the report (see rule 14.06A).

The program is separate from the discipline process except that, where necessary, the reviewer will uphold the duty to report found in section 7.1-3 of the Code of Professional Conduct.

For more information, consult the FAQs and Part XIVA of the Rules or contact the Director of Practice Management.