Certificate of Pending Litigation
Important Notice for Property Owners
A certificate of pending litigation must be filed electronically by a professional (lawyer, notary public or registry agent). In person and mail submissions are not accepted.
A certificate of pending litigation is legally complex and time-sensitive and filing them incorrectly can cause delays or serious legal consequences. A professional will help ensure the certificate of pending litigation is eligible for registration and filed correctly.
How Certificate of Pending Litigations (CPLs) are filed
CPLs are subject to required electronic filing. They must be:
- Prepared and electronically signed by a lawyer or notary public and
- Submitted electronically through the land title system
In-person and mail filings are not accepted, by property owners or legal professionals.
Exceptions (Rare)
Only in extraordinary circumstances may the Registrar allow a CPL to be filed outside the electronic process. These exceptions must be requested and approved in advance. Cost, convenience, or unfamiliarity with the process are not considered extraordinary circumstances.
If an exception is granted:
- All legal and filing requirements still apply
- The applicant is responsible for ensuring the filing is correct
- Land Title Office staff cannot provide legal advice or assistance with completing forms
More information about exception requests is available in the E-Filing Directions, part 7.3.
Why legal help matters
CPLs are connected to court actions and often involve specific legal and filing requirements. Mistakes can lead to delays, rejection, or legal consequences.
A lawyer or notary public can:
- Confirm a CPL is legally appropriate
- Check the current land title
- Prepare documents correctly
- Resolve issues before filing
- Submit the CPL electronically and on time
Because CPLs affect property and legal rights, professional assistance helps ensure the filing is done correctly.