Legal Aid BC’s Digital Transformation Program is reaching several major milestones in the next few months. Three projects — the Financial System Replacement (FSR project), Large Case Management (LCM) modernization, and the new Client Online Application (COA) project — are all preparing for launch. Each one will help modernize our tools, reduce manual work, and improve the experience for clients, lawyers, and LABC staff.
Financial System Replacement
Launch date: June 2026
We’re approaching an important milestone in LABC’s digital transformation: the switch to our new financial system, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Our current financial software is nearing end of life and replacing it has been a top priority. Even if you don’t use the financial system directly, it plays a major role in keeping LABC running smoothly — from ensuring you get paid on time to supporting accurate financial reporting.
This launch is the first FSR milestone. We will be rolling out additional tools over the coming months.
“This replacement incorporates a modern, flexible, cloud-first Enterprise Resource Planning software system and strong Microsoft integration with our Customer Information System for improved reporting, decision making, and future planning.” Chandrang Makwana, LABC’s Manager, Financial Operations
Large Case Management modernization
Launch date: July 2026
Large Case Management activities are moving into the Lawyer Portal, replacing the older, end-of-life system. You’ll be able to manage all tasks in one place, with real time tracking, and automated notifications. More improvements are planned for fall 2026.
Training opportunities
The LCM team will be hosting training sessions with lawyers in June 2026 to showcase the new system.
LCM invoicing and payment schedule (transition period)
During the transition to the new LCM system, there will be temporary changes to when you can submit invoices for LCM activities. The LCM payment schedule will be permanently changing from weekly to bi-weekly to align with the payment schedule for other lawyer services.
- June 22, 2026 — Deadline to submit your final invoice in the current system to be included in the June 26 payment.
- June 26, 2026 — Final payment from the old LCM system.
- June 22 – July 5, 2026 — Invoice submission for LCM activities will be unavailable in the Lawyer Portal. Please track your hours and enter them once the new system is live.
- June 27 – July 14, 2026 — No LCM payments will be issued during this period.
- July 6, 2026 — Invoice submission for LCM activities resumes in the new system.
- July 7, 2026, at noon (PT) — Deadline to submit invoices in the new system to be included in the July 15 payment.
- July 15, 2026 — Payments will resume on a new bi-weekly schedule, which is consistent with the payment schedule for other lawyer services.
Non-LCM invoicing and payment schedule (transition period)
Due to the transition to the new LCM system, you will not be able to submit invoices for non-LCM activities on July 1, July 4, and July 5. Payment schedules will remain the same.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to improve our services.
“LCM is moving upward and onward onto the cloud. The new LCM will allow for better reporting on files, increased ease to allow non-LCM staff to assist with files when needed, and a more seamless experience for external lawyers billing in LCM.”
Samiran Lakshman, LABC’s Managing Lawyer, Large Criminal Cases
Client Online Application project
Launch date: September 2026
The Client Online Application project introduces a modern, secure, online application for clients seeking legal aid in British Columbia. It enhances the current paper and email-based process, which is highly manual and often incomplete.
Key benefits include:
- reduced manual data entry and fewer follow-ups for Intake
- more complete and accurate information in applications
- a guided, mobile responsive, 24/7 application submission experience for clients
- better accessibility, privacy, and data security
- a scalable foundation for future client facing digital services
The COA project is also laying the foundation for future digital improvements, including a self-serve Client Portal.
“LABC accepts about 10,000 online legal aid applications annually that are processed by intake workers across BC. The Client Online Application project will create a streamlined, safe, and secure process for new and returning LABC clients to make new applications and check the status of previously submitted applications.”
Nikolas Longstaff, LABC’s Manager, Intake and Referral Services
