Company Bio
Legal Aid Ontario employees are committed to making a difference in the lives of our clients.
As an integral partner in the Justice system, working at Legal Aid Ontario is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to help people who need it the most; to ensure each client receives the access to justice afforded to them under the law.
If you are looking for a new challenge in your already meaningful career with a team dedicated to justice, and innovation in a flexible and supportive work environment consider this opportunity below.
Primary function
Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) presents law students with an exceptional opportunity to embark on adiverse 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.
Legal Aid Ontario offers a wide range of legal aid services across the province. For more information about LAO and its programs, visit the LAO website at www.legalaid.on.ca.
Home Location: Ontario Court of Justice Toronto
Secondary & Tertiary Locations: Toronto Regional Bail Centre; Toronto South Detention Centre
Hiring Manager: Manager, Legal Services
This position is 100% onsite at the locations listed above. The successful candidate(s) must be able to commute to the office(s) and work in person on a full‑time basis.
Key accountabilities
As a summer student, you will assist staff duty counsel representing clients during bail hearings and providing services to out of custody clients. This may include conducting client interviews, contacting sureties on behalf of in-custody clients, conducting surety interviews, appearing on behalf of LAO clients in case management courts, conducting guilty plea interviews, and conducting legal research and drafting legal memoranda.
Required skills & experience
- 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
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.
- Interviews: This position will participate in the virtual On Campus Interview (OCI) process. Check with your school for the OCI interview schedule.
o Address Applications to: Hiring Manager, 20 Dundas St. West, Suite 730 Toronto, ON M5G2H1
- Multiple Locations: If interested in more than one location, submit a separate application foreach and only apply to the positions you are willing to accept.
- Notification: Only candidates selected for an interview will be notified via email
Equity Statement
Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a safe culture and work environment that dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team.
