FAQs

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about membership. If you don't find the answer to your question, contact us at membership@advocates.ca or 1-888-597-0243 x 102.


What is The Advocates’ Society (TAS)?

The Advocates’ Society (TAS) is a not-for-profit association that serves advocates from all practice areas and is Canada’s premier provider of advocacy skills training. We offer our members access to a collegial network and the resources they need to build a successful practice.

Who belongs to TAS?

TAS membership is comprised of more than 6,000 lawyers, judges, advocates and law school students from across Canada.

What are the annual dues?

All memberships are individual. We have a number of categories for membership, based on seniority at the bar, location and your type of practice.  If you have any questions regarding what category applies to you, please contact our Membership Department at membership@advocates.ca or 1-888-597-0243 x 102. Please note: Membership dues are non-refundable.

For a list of membership categories, click here.

I already have an online account with you and wish to apply as a member, what should I do?

You must complete and submit a Membership application form to be considered for Membership. Membership applications are available here.

I have participated in some of your programs and receive your email communications. Am I a Member?

Being a program participant or subscriber to the TAS email list does not confirm membership. Please check your online account to confirm your membership status or contact our Membership Department at membership@advocates.ca or 1-888-597-0243 x 102.

Can anyone become a Member of the society?

No. Membership in The Advocates’ Society is restricted to lawyers who primarily practice advocacy, judges and law school students (including articling students and NCA candidates). Lawyers must declare that a substantial portion of their practice is dedicated to advocacy and must be in good standing with a Canadian Law Society or a recognized equivalent. Non-lawyers and paralegals are not eligible for Membership.

Can anyone attend TAS programs and events?

No. Unless otherwise noted, attendance at TAS CPD programs and events is restricted to lawyers, judges and law school students.

What is the length of my membership term?

Memberships operate on a calendar year renewal cycle, so applications received during the year are pro-rated to year end. This allows firms to pay for multiple members at one time each year. Renewal invoices for the next year are usually mailed in mid-December.

Once I apply, how long before I receive my Member benefits?

All new Member applications must be approved by the Board of Directors. The Board meets monthly to approve new Members.

Upon submitting your application, your Membership will be in “Approval Pending” status but you are welcome to take advantage of some Member benefits, like Member discounts on CPD programs.

Once approved, you will receive a welcome package by mail that will include your user ID and password for the TAS online Member Portal, a recent copy of The Advocates’ Journal, and a receipt for your first Membership dues payment. You will be added to The Advocates’ Journal mailing list.

When I join TAS, will I be enrolled in my Practice Group automatically?

Yes. All new Members are enrolled in Practice Groups based on the information provided on your application form. Members are welcome to participate in more than one Practice Group, so you can update your on-line profile to reflect the areas of practice relevant to you.

How do I update my Member Profile?

The link to your personal Member Profile page can be found at the top right hand side of every page of the TAS website. You must be logged in to access your profile.

Adding a photo, bio and links to your social media pages will make your profile stand out on the Membership Directory, and let other Members know a little more about you and your practice.

If you are on a personal computer, phone or tablet when you log on, tick the “Remember me” box so you don’t have to log on with ID and password every time.

If you require any assistance with your online Membership Profile, contact our Webmaster at neville@advocates.ca or the Membership Department at membership@advocates.ca.

How do I find other members?

The online Membership Directory is available to TAS members only. You must be logged in to view the Directory. You can search for members by name, city and area of practice. Members have the option to opt-out so not all members will be listed.  To go to the Membership Directory, click here.

How do I register for a program or event?

Find the program or event you wish to attend in the events calendar. Follow the link to the registration portal, where you can register online or by mail using a printable PDF flier. Online registrations will be confirmed by email within 24 hours. Registrations by mail, fax or e-mail can take up to one week to process.

How do I renew my membership online?

Log into your account and click on the button “Renew Now” on the left side of your profile page. You will then be directed for payment.

Still have questions?

Call us at 1-888-597-0243 x 102 or send an e-mail to membership@advocates.ca. View our Staff Directory if you wish to contact a specific department.