Legal advice
Legal advice is guidance from a lawyer applying the law to a client's particular situation, such as advising on rights, obligations or a course of action. It differs from general legal information. Communications made to obtain or give legal advice are normally protected by solicitor-client privilege.
How BC law treats it
Under the Legal Profession Act, SBC 1998 c 9, only practising lawyers, and others such as notaries within limited authorized scopes, may give legal advice for a fee in BC; unauthorized practice is prohibited.
What it means for your business
A BC business should get advice from a licensed lawyer before major contracts, disputes or transactions.
Risks and common mistakes
Relying on unlicensed advisers for legal advice can leave the business without privilege protection or insurance recourse if the advice is wrong.
Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
