2025 2l Summer Law Student - Criminal & Family

Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) presents law students with an exceptional opportunity to embark on a diverse and fulfilling career in social justice. LAO is dedicated to the long-term professional development of its lawyers, offering experience in multiple areas of law throughout Ontario, beginning with summer and articling placements.

We are seeking talented law students passionate about a multifaceted, long-term career focused on providing access to justice. Consider joining LAO, where you can positively affect the lives of low-income Ontarians.

Home Location: Kenora
Secondary & Tertiary Locations: not applicable

Hiring Manager: Manager, Legal Services

As a summer student, you will be involved in matters that may include:
• Duty counsel services in criminal court: interview accused, contact and verify sureties, conduct surety interviews, act as intermediary between duty counsel and private counsel or Crowns, facilitate interviews for duty counsel, conduct guilty plea interviews, assist with set-date court, and assisting with weekend and statutory holiday (WASH) court.
• Duty counsel services in family court: help unrepresented clients draft applications, affidavits and motions, prepare lists of cases, summaries of cases and case books that could be accessed by duty counsel, observe courtroom presentations and assist with client meetings.

• Enrolled in a recognized law school
• Proven dedication to social justice or public interest work
• Exceptional written and oral communication abilities
• Strong interpersonal skills such as active listening, empathy, teamwork, conflict resolution, patience, adaptability, networking and a positive attitude.
• Familiarity with Legal Aid Ontario's mission and services
• Ability to work independently, tackle complex issues, build relationships, and collaborate with teams
• Experience in serving marginalized populations, including racialized communities, youth, and individuals facing mental health or addiction issues, or homelessness
• French language proficiency is an asset
• Valid driver's license and/or access to transportation

LAO is pleased to accept applications from students in law schools outside of Ontario as well.

How to apply:
• Application Submission: Apply online at LAO Careers
• Required Documents: cover letter, résumé, law school transcripts (unofficial web-based transcripts or grade listings are acceptable), and 2-3 reference letters related to work, school, or volunteer activities.
• Submission Details: Applications must be submitted through LAO's online application tool. No other forms of submission will be accepted.
o Address Applications to: Hiring Manager, 20 Dundas St. West, Suite 730 Toronto, ON M5G 2H1
• Multiple Locations: If interested in more than one location, submit a separate application for each and only apply to the positions you are willing to accept.

Only those candidates selected for an interview will be notified.
Please note that all applicants are encouraged to provide a valid email address for communication purposes. Applicants may receive written correspondence regarding this job posting directly to the email address provided on their resume or to the one used to set up their Candidate Profile if applying on Njoyn. As an applicant, it is your responsibility to ensure that you check your email regularly.

First time applying to LAO? You will need to create a profile AND then apply for the position.
Already have an Njoyn account? Just sign in and select "my jobs" to apply.
Once you have successfully applied you will receive a confirmation email.

Trouble applying? For telephone support please call 1-877-427-7717 or email support: candidate.njoynhelp@cgi.com