This course does not explore your obligations on winding-up or moving a practice. When you get to the point where you are planning to do so, however, the Law Society has resources to assist you. It is essential that you communicate with existing and former clients as their rights and interests may be affected by your decision. Remember that you have obligations to your clients.

 

If you have drafted wills for clients, it is important (whether you are winding up your practice, or just moving firms) to contact the testators to advise them of your plans. Do not leave this to the last minute, as it may take some effort to get in touch with the testators and arrange for them to take possession of their wills. Provide them with your new contact information and the effective date that your contact information will change (e.g., as of July 1, 2020, I can be reached at [address; telephone; email]).

 

Also remember that section 3.5 of the Code of Conduct places lawyers under a duty to safeguard client property in the lawyer’s possession, subject to a right of lien or agreement to the contrary to return property at the conclusion of the retainer.