The Wills Project originally operated as a PBSC initiative in partnership with the 519 Church Community Centre. The project has recently expanded to serve Aboriginal clients as well as individuals that fall within a low income bracket, as well as the original goal of serving members of the Toronto community who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Students work under the supervision of a lawyer to create wills and powers of attorney for clients who are unable to afford a lawyer.
How Does the Wills Project Work?
Volunteers are responsible for client screening and intake and the drafting and reviewing of Wills and Powers of Attorney. Students will gain hands-on experience as they track client files from initiation to closing.
Students selected to participate will attend training in late September. After being matched with a client (anticipated to be once a semester) they should be prepared to commit approximately 20 hours per semester for the project; this time includes taking instructions, drafting the will and completing the signing process.
Timeline for Students
| Date | Events |
| September | Recruitment
Training |
| October | Receive client assignments
Begin work on wills |
| November | Finish work on wills
Present Public Legal Education session (PLE) |
| December | Wrap-up the semester |
| January | Receive client assignments
Begin work on wills |
| March | Finish wills
PLE
PBSC Appreciation event |
| April | Exams |
How Do I Get Involved in the Wills Project?
Interested students should apply directly to the Volunteer Coordinator via email with a cover letter describing their interest in the project, and a current resume. Please note that Wills and Estates, while valuable experience, is not a prerequisite for this project.
Contact Information
Wills Project Coordinator:
Katie O’Rourke
willsproject.pbsc@utoronto.ca
U of T PBSC Student Coordinators:
Natalie Lum-Tai and Meaghan Parry
probono.students@utoronto.ca
416-946-0397
