*NOTE: The deadline for project proposals was Monday, July 16, 2012. We are currently not accepting new proposals for the upcoming academic year.
If your organization is interested in participating in Pro Bono Students Canada, please complete the following steps:
- Read the Project Guidlines (available for download below).
- Complete the Project Description Form (also available for download below).
- Email completed document to probono@osgoode.yorku.ca or fax to 416-736-5736
Students may assist you in a variety of law-related projects:
- Legal research and the preparation of legal memoranda
- Public legal education
- Case preparation
- Client intake: conducting client interviews and providing supervised legal advice
The PBSC Osgoode Program Coordinators monitor students to ensure that they are progressing in their projects and benefiting from their experience. The PBSC Coordinator, faculty advisor, and career development office are also available to the students if the he or she has any questions or concerns.
Registration Requirements
1. Organization Type
- Incorporated non-profit (public interest) organizations that include: disadvantaged and underrepresented communities, museums, art events, co-ops, heritage trust organizations, etc.
- Lawyers conducting pro bono work
- Legal clinics
- Government agencies
- Academic departments
Note: We cannot help small businesses or individuals seeking legal assistance.
Generally we do not help religious or political organizations (e.g. a specific church or political party). However, projects may be assessed on a case-by-case basis when it has a specific goal of supplying a social service or human rights service.
2. Lawyer Supervision
Organizations require a lawyer, working internally or externally for the organization, to provide guidance to the student throughout the duration of the project.
- Lawyer supervision is eligible for 9 CPD hours
Note: Volunteer lawyers or personal contacts of an organization member also fulfill this requirement. A non-lawyer supervisor may supervise the student as well, but a practicing, insured lawyer is still a requirement.
Organizations without lawyers may seek the following to find a lawyer supervisor:
- Ask a board member if s/he has personal contacts with lawyers
- Talk to people you know and ask around for a lawyer to volunteer
- Talk to people you have worked with in the past to help you find a lawyer
- Solicit for a volunteer lawyer
