Transitioning to the new Societies Act, SBC 2015
The new Societies Act in British Columbia came into effect on November 28, 2016. Existing societies were given two years to transition to the new Act, which means that the deadline to transition is coming up this month. The consequences for not transitioning are severe.
What does it mean if a society does not transition?
If you do not transition before the deadline on November 28, 2018, your society will be dissolved by the Registrar and cease to exist as an incorporated body. It is possible to re-incorporate, but transitioning ahead of the deadline is the easiest way to ensure that operations continue to run smoothly and without interruption.
If your society is a registered charity, there is an additional risk to not transitioning. Since it is the charity’s obligation to maintain its status as a legal entity, failure to transition and the dissolution that follows means that your charitable status can be revoked.
What does the new Societies Act mean for societies?
The new Act allows for increased flexibility. Changes regarding types of memberships, investing funds, locations of meetings and methods of giving notice all allow for more leeway in your bylaws and operations. DGW Law can walk you through the changes, step by step, as they apply to your specific case.
How does a society transition?
Transitioning your society to the new Act does not need to be complicated, especially with the guidance of someone knowledgeable at your side. At DGW Law we understand the requirements for the transition process. We will help you prepare a version of your society’s constitution and bylaws and ensure that information is current regarding the society’s directors, registered office and annual reports. Finally, we will file your transition application for you with Societies Online.
It’s that simple!
At DGW Law, our experienced staff have transitioned multiple societies over the last two years. We work with societies ongoingly and ensure that records are complete and up to date. From filing annual reports to making changes to your bylaws, DGW Law has the resources to help your society continue to run smoothly.
Contact us today to add legal expertise to your society’s team of devoted members who deliver on your society’s promise.