PBSC’S Family Law Project (FLP) is an award-winning initiative that provides legal assistance to low-income clients in a high priority area of law. Utilizing law students to support and enhance the work of LAO staff, duty counsel and advice lawyers, the program provides unrepresented litigants with legal assistance at courthouses in the GTA, and provides law students with the opportunity develop critical legal skills while learning about the court process, the practice of family law and legal aid lawyering. Under the direct supervision of LAO duty counsel and advice lawyers, students assist unrepresented clients draft court documents and provide legal information. This position provides excellent experience in legal drafting, advocacy and client interviewing, along with unparalleled exposure to family litigation and civil procedure.
How does the Upper Year Program work?
In collaboration with Osgoode Hall Law School, students are placed at three family courthouses (Brampton, North York or Toronto) to complete a 4-hour shift (morning or afternoon) once a week. Students work hand-in-hand with LAO lawyers, while interacting directly with clients to help draft court pleadings and other documents in preparation for trial.
As volunteers you will:
- Learn and practice skills applicable both in and outside of family law e.g. interviewing clients and legal drafting
- Gain a clear understanding of how the court system works
- Deal with concrete issues faced in the Family Courts
Time Line for Students
Date | Events |
|---|
September | Submit Applications
Training Sessions: PBSC General Training, FLP-specific training (generally one full Saturday) and a substantive family law session |
October | Start Volunteering at the Courts |
November | Attend Community Building Event |
December | Break for exams and holiday break |
January | Recommence Volunteering at the Courts |
March | Submit Evaluations
Attend Final Appreciation Event |
April | Break for exams and summer break |
How do I get involved?
If you are an upper year student and wish to get involved in the Family Law Project, please apply using the online Competitive PBSC Student Application Form, available here, being sure to fill in the Family Law Project section. Preference is given to students are currently enrolled or have taken Family Law.
Contact Information
University of Toronto Family Law Project Coordinator:
Eli Bordman
Ontario Family Law Project Coordinator:
Ritika Rai
Ontario.flp@probonostudents.ca
For general inquiries about the PBSC University of Toronto Chapter, please contact the Program Coordinators:
Greg Drozdzal
U of T Summer and School-Year Program Coordinator
Pro Bono Students Canada
Ellie Minchopoulos
U of T School-Year Program Coordinator
Pro Bono Students Canada
Email - probonostudents.utoronto@gmail.com
