Self-Represented Program

The Self-Represented Program helps licensees and individuals who choose to represent themselves at a RECA Hearing or Appeal.

Increasingly, licensees are choosing to represent themselves. RECA strongly encourages licensees to obtain legal counsel; however, self-representation is their choice.

The Self-Represented Program (the Program) provides process guidance and information to licensees. Because hearings and appeals are legal processes, licensees who do not have legal representation sometimes find the process difficult. The program’s objective is to improve and enhance the overall experience for self-represented licensees who are involved in a RECA hearing or appeal. RECA is committed to making its hearing and appeal processes more understandable, user-friendly, and accessible for  licensees.

RECA’s Self-Represented Program Includes:

Watch the Self Representation video series

You can also watch the entire video series directly on RECA YouTube.

Looking for a specific topic?

Module 1: How the Panel Chair Starts a Hearing
Module2: Making an Opening Statement
Module 3: Questioning a Witness During Direct Examination
Module 4: Cross-Examining a Witness
Module 5: Re-Examination
Module 6: Objecting to a Question
Module 7: Making a Closing Statement
Module 8: Preparing a Written Submission for Sanction and Costs

For more information on the Self-Represented Program, please contact RECA General Counsel Unit:

Email: selfrep@reca.ca
Fax: 403 228 3065
Phone: 403 228 2954
Toll Free: 1 800 425 2754
Address: Real Estate Council of Alberta
202, 1506 11 Ave SW
Calgary AB, T3C 0M9


The free consultation with an independent lawyer gives the self-represented licensee an opportunity to discuss general process information with an independent lawyer face-to-face.

The consultation provides general information to help self-represented individuals understand:

  • how a RECA hearing or appeal works
  • what will be required before and during the proceedings
  • the principles of natural justice and fairness
  • the steps an individual might take to prepare for a hearing or appeal
  • the potential serious consequences a hearing or appeal may have on an industry licensee

These lawyers are independent lawyers who have undergone training about RECA hearings and appeals, and have legal information about RECA processes. They are not employees of RECA and they have no involvement or knowledge of any licensees’ specific case. They cannot give legal advice or represent the licensee at the hearing or appeal. The third party lawyer’s role is to give general information about RECA hearing and appeal processes so the licensee has a better understanding of how to follow the proper hearing and appeal procedures.


The “How to Represent Yourself at a Real Estate Council of Alberta Hearing or Appeal” guide is a detailed document that provides self-represented individuals with general information to help them understand the process of a hearing or appeal. The guide explains:

  • every type of RECA hearing or appeal process
  • what to expect during the processes
  • options for settlements or agreements
  • how to prepare for the hearing or appeal
  • what the possible outcomes are

The checklists for each type hearing or appeal process give a comprehensive outline of what actually happens on the day of hearing. They explain the hearing processes in a step by step manner. The checklists walk self-represented parties through the hearing with such detail that they will know exactly what is happening at each stage, who does what, and when. The checklists ensure self-represented licensees can fully prepare every part of their case, helping relieve stress, anxiety and frustration, and any feelings that they are at a disadvantage because they do not understand the process.

Licensee Hearings

Phase 1 Contested Hearing
Phase 2 Contested Hearing
Section 46 Expedited Hearing
Adjournment Application
Adjournment Application – Contested

Licensee Appeals

Appeal of a Contested Hearing
Administrative Penalty Appeal (Licensee)
Appeal of Letter of Reprimand
Appeal of Suspension

Other

Administrative Penalty Appeal (Non-Licensee)
Complainant Appeal
Licensee Refusal Appeal (Non-Licensee)





More Info: