You may submit a complaint, in writing only, to the Law Society. All complaints are reviewed by a staff lawyer to determine whether the concerns expressed are within the Law Society's jurisdiction or merit investigation.

The majority of complaints received by the Law Society are forwarded to the lawyer named in the complaint, and he or she is required, under the Law Society's Rules, to provide a written response within 14 days. In the normal course, a copy of the response is sent to the complainant, who is given an opportunity to respond.

Sometimes it is determined that a satisfactory explanation has been provided, or that the matter can be resolved through a reminder of professional obligations.

More serious complaints are referred to the Complaints Investigation Committee which reviews the lawyer's conduct to determine if charges of incompetence, professional misconduct or conduct unbecoming a lawyer should be authorized. The Complaints Investigation Committee also considers matters which deal with a lawyer's competency and standards of practise, and may recommend that a lawyer complete a remedial program.

A number of less serious complaints may be dealt with through the Law Society's telephone mediation program."