6.1 – Introduction and Objectives
The Client Identification and Verification Requirements are found in Rules 1541 through 1550 of the Law Society of Saskatchewan Rules. These Rules require you to gather specific information about clients. The Client Identification Rules are designed to ensure you know the identity of people or organizations that retain you to provide legal services. The Client Verification Rules are more extensive and apply when lawyers are retained to provide legal services and engage in or give instructions with respect to the receipt, payment, or transfer of funds.
In complying with these requirements, lawyers must also consider the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), which governs the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by private sector organizations, including Saskatchewan law firms. PIPEDA also imposes obligations with respect to the safe storage and destruction of personal information. The Client Identification and Verification Rules must be read in the context of PIPEDA.
Objectives
This Module will review:
- the Client Identification Rules;
- the Client Verification Rules; and
- the impacts of PIPEDA on gathering personal information about clients.
Although we aim to present a comprehensive Module, this Module is not exhaustive. This Module is not a substitute for exercising professional judgment and does not constitute legal advice.
Time Estimate for this Module (including Quiz): 45 minutes