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 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: Toronto
Secondary/tertiary locations: Not Applicable
This position is 100% onsite at the location listed above. The successful candidate must be able to commute to the office and work in person on a full‑time basis.
Reporting to: Acting Director, Legal Services
Key accountabilities
Senior Counsel Program:
The Senior Counsel Program provides an additional option for service, separate from duty counsel or roster services. It complements the work of Ontario’s private bar by filling identified service gaps. Our lawyers serve clients for the entire life of their case, from bail up to and including full trial representation. Senior Counsel also create and facilitate mentorship and training opportunities for staff lawyers, students and private counsel to cultivate professional judgment and skill, further enhancing access to justice. Any client who meets the eligibility requirements may benefit from Senior Counsel representation.
As a summer law student, you will be involved in matters that may include:
- Client services may include legal and other research, drafting, case preparation, memo writing, client contact, interviews and gathering of facts, court appearances whether remote or in-person, organization of a client file matter, negotiation and advice; all necessary assistance to Senior Counsel for trials, complex pleas and sentencing, fitness, NCR and ORB hearings, and bail reviews, appeals, extraordinary remedies (i.e. habeas corpus) and test case and public litigation.
- Senior Counsel can assist with protocol cases such as Amicus (lawyer for the Court), s 486.3 (cross-examine specific witnesses), and s 672.24 (represent accused while fitness is in issue).
Required skills & experience
- Enrolled in a recognized law school
- Demonstrated commitment to social justice or public interest work
- Demonstrated excellent writing and oral communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills and sound judgement
- Awareness of LAO’s statutory mandate to provide high quality client service to vulnerable populations such as racialized communities, Indigenous communities, youth, and those experiencing mental health or addiction challenges and/or homelessness
- Awareness of access to justice issues facing LAO’s clients
- Fluent in English, fluency in French is an asset
How to apply:
- Apply through http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/careers
(only applications submitted through LAO’s online application tool will be accepted).
o A cover letter;
o résumé ;
o law school transcripts (web-based unofficial transcripts or grades listings are acceptable);and
o 2-3 work, school, or volunteer related reference letters.
- Only those candidates selected for an interview will be notified by email
- If you are interested in more than one location, you need to apply to each location/posting and only apply to the positions you are willing to accept.
Only candidates selected for an interview will be notified
Final candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal record check.
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 a position with 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:
[email protected].
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.
