n Ontario, a corporate secretary plays a vital role in ensuring that a corporation complies with legal requirements and maintains accurate records. The role of a corporate secretary may vary depending on the size and complexity of the corporation, but typically includes maintaining corporate records, preparing and filing corporate documents, and ensuring that the corporation complies with its by-laws, articles of incorporation, and applicable laws and regulations.
Many corporations choose to appoint a lawyer as their corporate secretary, as lawyers are well-equipped to handle legal matters and are familiar with the legal requirements for corporations. However, the question arises as to whether a lawyer can act as a corporate secretary for a corporation in Ontario.
The short answer is yes, a lawyer can act as a corporate secretary for a corporation in Ontario. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) regulates the conduct of lawyers in Ontario, and lawyers must comply with the rules and regulations set out by the LSO. According to the LSO’s Rules of Professional Conduct, a lawyer who acts as a corporate secretary must ensure that their role as a lawyer does not conflict with their role as a corporate secretary.
Secondly, if a lawyer is acting as a corporate secretary, they must ensure that they comply with all of the legal requirements that apply to corporate secretaries, including maintaining accurate records, preparing and filing documents, and ensuring compliance with by-laws, articles of incorporation, and applicable laws and regulations.
Thirdly, it is important to note that if a lawyer is acting as a corporate secretary for a corporation, they are not providing legal services to the corporation. Rather, they are acting in an administrative capacity as a corporate secretary.
In summary, a lawyer can act as a corporate secretary for a corporation in Ontario, but must ensure that they comply with all of the legal requirements that apply to corporate secretaries and ensure that their role as a lawyer does not conflict with their role as a corporate secretary. If you have questions about the role of a corporate secretary or would like to discuss your corporation’s corporate governance needs, contact Falcon Law PC at 1-877-892-7778 or info@falconlawyers.ca. Our team of experienced corporate lawyers can provide you with the guidance and support you need to ensure that your corporation is operating effectively and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
