Current Projects 2023-2024

Description: Community Living London supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. This project will be focused on providing plain language legal information on Henson trusts in Ontario. Henson trusts are a way for family members to provide for relatives living with disabilities by protecting the assets of the beneficiary and preserving eligibility for government benefits such as the Ontario Disability Support Program. The final product will be an informational document that will provide step-by-step instructions on what a trustee must do upon death, and is designed to be routinely used by Community Living London. The students will have the opportunity to present this information to the families of those with developmental disabilities.

Organization: Community Living London

Type of Project: Public Legal Education             

Area(s) of Law: Family Law, Property Law, Disability Law

Number of Students: 2 students

Prerequisites/Assets: No prerequisites, however, students who have taken the Trusts course or are currently taking the Trusts course are preferred due to the nature of the project.

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L

Description: Nokee Kwe, following Indigenous principles and practices, provides free programs and services, to all underrepresented groups. This project will focus on the legal rights of both employers and employees. Topics for research may include wrongful dismissal, discrimination/racial biases, and harassment in the workplace. The project may also involve a review of employment legislation, and the creation of a plain language document that can be shared with Nokee Kwe clients/employers.

Organization: Nokee Kwe

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Employment Law, Human Rights Law

Number of Students: 3-4 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Employment law/human rights law would be an asset, but it’s not a requirement. Underrepresented students, specifically Indigenous students, are encouraged to participate.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: This project will focus on providing public legal education to unrepresented litigants and court support workers. The project deliverable will be a series of pre-recorded videos that the students will create based on the research they conduct throughout their time volunteering.

Organization: Elgin Oxford Legal Clinic

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Family Law, Criminal Law, Property Law

Number of Students: 5 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: In partnership with the Department of Anthropology, the students will create a plain language information booklet and workshop on legal issues pertaining to the rights of Indigenous Peoples. In particular, this project will focus on the legal status and history of Indigenous land claims related to unmarked graves.

Organization: Western Anthropology Graduate Society

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Indigenous Law, Property Law, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Human Rights

Number of Students: 2-3 students

Prerequisites/Assets: It would be an asset for at least one of the students on the project to be bilingual so that the project deliverable can be disseminated in both English and French. Given the nature of the target audience, we welcome applications from Indigenous, Inuit, or Métis students, and/or students passionate about reducing injustices for Indigenous peoples. Students should also be passionate about education, and creating educational opportunities.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: This project will involve research on Ontario Land Code. The purpose of this project is to develop a deeper understanding of land code, ecological injustice, and displacement. The students will conduct research on land code and gain a deeper understanding of ecological injustice and displacement. The students will then compile their research into a plain language resource (such as an information booklet/pamphlet). Additionally, the students may also present their research.

Organization: Office of Indigenous Initiatives

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Property Law, Indigenous Law

Number of Students: 2-3 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Indigenous Law or Aboriginal Law is an asset. Given the nature of the target audience, we welcome applications from Indigenous, Inuit, or Métis students, and/or students passionate about reducing injustices for Indigenous peoples, legal education, and creating educational opportunities.

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L

Description: Legal Line provides access to Canadian laws in plain language. Legal Line has covered over 48 areas of law including business law, injury law, cyber law, child custody, and immigration law. Students will assist Legal Line by helping edit and produce content for the website.

Organization: Legal Line

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: This project addresses a variety of areas of law based on the questions that are asked to Legal Line.

Number of Students: 2 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Strong writing and legal interpretation skills.

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L

Description: When people turn 65, social services, health benefits, and financial supports change. Particularly for low-income citizens. The purpose of this project is to draft a comprehensive manual to inform them, before they turn 65, of what changes are coming, what forms will need to be completed and how, as well as what social services/health benefits will change. The manual will include what programs they should access at 64 years of age, before their access is eliminated. For example, dental and vision benefits provided through ODSP/OW.

Federal pensions will be explained, as well as factors that impact them, such as credit-splitting, child-rearing dropout years, and maximum earnings allowed before GIS is deducted. Links to appropriate forms should be included and explained. This comprehensive tool will provide step-by-step information to guide residents to access the maximum benefits possible, as they approach their senior years in poverty.

Other topics that may be addressed include transition from ODSP to OAS, transition from CPP disability benefits to CPP retirement benefits, and legal obligation to report foreign pension income in the federal tax return.

Organization: LIFE*SPIN

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Administrative Law, Health Law, Disability Law; Old Age Security Act, Canada Pension Plan Regulations, Trillium Drug Plan—Ministry of Health, Ontario Disability Support Program Act & Policy Regulations, Ontario Works Act & Policy Regulations

Number of Students: 2 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: As a council of autonomous community-based agencies which serve immigrant communities of Ontario, OCASI asserts the rights of all persons to participate fully and equitably in the social, cultural, political and economic life of Ontario. Settlement.org is an online resource facilitated by OCASI that provides newcomers with an electronic community to find information, read relevant news, ask questions, share their experiences with others, and access a database of community organizations. The Settlement.org moderated discussion forum works to answer questions with well-researched legal information. Here we provide information and referral to services in response to questions about immigration, health, housing, and other aspects of the settlement process.

Here are some samples of what we asked the students to review and/or write:

• What is an Invitation to Apply? https://settlement.org/ontario/immigration-citizenship/immigrating-to-ontario/immigration-categories/what-is-an-invitation-to-apply-ita/
• What is Express Entry? https://settlement.org/ontario/immigration-citizenship/immigrating-to-ontario/immigration-categories/what-is-express-entry/
• Can I Sponsor My Adoptive Parents? https://discuss.settlement.org/topic44109-can-isponsor-my-adoptive-parents.aspx

Organization: Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Immigration & Refugee Law, Housing (Landlord & Tenant) Law, and Employment & Labour Law

Number of Students: 2 students

Prerequisites/Assets: French language skills are an asset. Coursework in immigration law is beneficial. Understanding of submitting final research in plain language is helpful, however OCASI can assist in early weeks if necessary.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: What is it:

Accessibility Audit: The students will conduct an accessibility audit of local public spaces, such as parks, libraries, and government buildings. They will assess compliance with accessibility standards and identify any violations or areas for improvement. The findings of their audits should be complied into a detailed report, identifying the issues as it contradicts the law. Further, students will create and disseminate a brochure/infographic which outlines accessibility legislation and how to meet those standards, to the community spaces they are auditing.

Purpose/Impact:

These audits will go beyond surface appearances, delving into the intricacies of compliance with accessibility standards and identifying potential violations. By doing so, the law students will contribute directly to the betterment of our community, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can access and enjoy these vital spaces. By spreading awareness and fostering collaboration between law students and community members, this initiative will lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and legally compliant environment. Through our collective efforts, we will build a community that champions diversity, inclusivity, and equal access for all.

Organization: PHSS—Medical & Complex Care in Community

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Accessibility Law and Disability Law

Number of Students: 3 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Students who have taken an accessibility/disability law course are preferred, but it is not a requirement. Personal interest in/connection to individuals with disabilities is an asset.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: Students will prepare radio shows to discuss important legal issues or interesting and unique/obscure legal topics that stimulate interest and provide information. The radio show will inform the public by providing various perspectives on a topical legal issue in an accessible way but will not look to provide legal opinions or advice on any subjects. Each episode has to be structured with proper scripts, use simple language, and should be designed to catch the audience’s attention.

Organization: Radio Western

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: No specific area of law. Students will pick topics that they are passionate about, or topics that are relevant based on current issues.

Number of Students: 3-4 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Students should be passionate about legal education and confident public speakers.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: Project Consent is a public legal education program that is focused on providing objective legal information to high school students (as well as potentially elementary school students) about consent, sexual assault, and their legal options if they are a victim of these types of crimes. Project Consent was developed by Western Law students in 2019 to help youth understand consent and the legal aspects of consent. Presentation content has received approval from the participating school boards. Participating schools will be notified when the presentations are happening to prepare for potential disclosures, and guidance counsellors and/or social workers are available as needed. Student volunteers are also provided with access to resources and support for mental wellness. Student volunteers will give presentations on consent, sexual assault, and sexting to high schools within the London area as directed by the Project Leads. Student volunteers may also be asked to prepare handouts and other materials for the presentations.

Organization: Community Legal Services

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Criminal Law

Number of Students: 12 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: The PSSO has noticed a trend of individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s being unfairly pushed out of their employment. As such, this project will focus on researching the rights individuals with Parkinson’s have as it pertains to their employment.

Organization: Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Employment Law, Disability Law

Number of Students: 3-5 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: This project will be focused on creating a plain language resource for tenants to understand their rights according to the Residential Tenancies Act. The final deliverable will explain the different eviction notices that tenants can be presented with and possible next steps. The project deliverable will be a user-friendly, how-to guide on evictions. In the event that this project is completed with considerable time to spare, a manual that serves as a tenant book of rights will be developed, both as it pertains to transitional housing (non-RTA housing) and RTA housing.

Organization: Youth Opportunities Unlimited

Type of Project: Public Legal Education

Area(s) of Law: Housing Law

Number of Students: 1 student

Prerequisites/Assets: Any experience in tenant law is an asset. Applicants should also be passionate about working with vulnerable populations within the London community.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: Students will assist the Huron Perth Legal Clinic in conducting legal research on their active cases for residents of Huron and Perth Counties with low income. Some of the topics will include human rights, housing law, and consumer protection law. There may be an opportunity for drafting pleadings or other materials.

The student volunteer will be responsible for conducting reviews of legislation and cases that relate to active cases. The outcome will be a research memorandum for the specific case. Depending on the students experience or progression through the research, the student could also be drafting pleadings and demand letters. The work can be conducted online, but the student volunteer will have the opportunity to work in person at the clinic if they are able to do so. Additionally, if the student is able to come into the clinic, ideally every other week, they will have the opportunity to assist with client intake.

Organization: Huron Perth Legal Clinic

Type of Project: Research, Client Services

Area(s) of Law: Human Rights, Housing Law, and Consumer Protection Law

Number of Students: 1 student

Prerequisites/Assets: Passionate about reducing barriers to justice and supporting the legal cases of people with a low income.

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: Students will assist lawyers at NLSLM, draft research memos, conduct client intake over the phone, and assist with legal files depending on the clinic’s needs. The students will be assisting with issues regarding Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Program, Canada Pension Plan, Landlord Tenant law, and employment law. Students will also assist in hearing preparation under the direct supervision of the supervising lawyer, as well as potentially accompany lawyers and clients to hearing. Note: students are not permitted to offer legal advice. Any questions outside of the advice relayed by the supervising lawyer must be directed to the supervising lawyer for follow-up.

Organization: Neighbourhood Legal Services London & Middlesex

Type of Project: Research, Client Services

Area(s) of Law: Administrative Law, Social Assistance, Housing Law, Employment and Labour Law

Number of Students: 2 students

Prerequisites/Assets: Strong research skills. Experience working in front-line and/or a clinical setting is an asset.

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L

Description: Elgin Oxford Legal Clinic works with individuals living on a low income in Elgin and Oxford County as well as Oneida of the Thames, Chippewa of the Thames and Munsee-Delaware First Nations. The student volunteers will be assisting EOLC with their client intake. The files that students will primarily be working on will pertain to Ontario Works appeals, Ontario Disability Support Program appeals, and Canadian Pension Plan disability appeals. Students will not be providing legal advice and will have access to a lawyer at all times during intake if there are any questions that exceed their ability to answer.

Organization: Elgin Oxford Legal Clinic

Type of Project: Client Services  

Area(s) of Law: This project will use various areas of law since this is client intake. Some topics of cases may be sexual harassment in the workplace, Employment Law, Ontario Works, Housing Law, and Canadian Pension Plan – Disability.

Number of Students: 2-3 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 1L, 2L, 3L

Description: The project will focus on assisting clients who have experienced gender-based violence, including intimate partner violence and/or sexual violence. In particular, the project will focus on the drafting of various documentation that accompanies client consultation, including but not limited to financial disclosure forms or documentation necessary to begin a proceeding.

Additionally, given the nature of the work, the students will be provided with regular debriefing sessions. During these debriefing sessions, the students will have the opportunity to discuss their work with the lawyer supervisor, as well as any additional concerns.

Organization: Elgin Oxford Legal Clinic

Type of Project: Client Services

Area(s) of Law: Family Law, Criminal Law, Housing Law, Ontario Works, ODSP, and Employment Law.

Number of Students: 3 students

Prerequisites/Assets: N/A

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L

Description: The student will have the opportunity to provide general support to the Legal and Risk Services Team at the Canadian Red Cross Society and assist with discrete legal tasks that support operational activities. It is important to note that this project focuses on corporate commercial/non-profit work and not international humanitarian law topics or human rights work. This project is best suited for a student who is interested in corporate law in a charitable environment and an in-house counsel workplace. The operational activities assist the organization’s beneficiaries in several areas of law including privacy law, contract law, employment law, public health legislation, immigration law, and discrimination law. The student can expect to assist with providing legal support services to Canadian Red Cross operational departments, including corporate/commercial legal services and notifying clients on upcoming changes to relevant laws and regulatory frameworks. Skill-building activities may include:

• Legal research and analysis on a variety of legal topics
• Drafting legal memos for both legal and non-legal audiences
• Contract review and contract drafting (following guidelines provided by the lawyer supervisor)
• Meeting with in-house clients in any of the above subject areas

All documents drafted will be submitted to the lawyer supervisor for review, revision, and final approval. At no point will students provide legal advice.

Organization: Canadian Red Cross Society

Type of Project: Internship

Area(s) of Law: Charity Law, Contract Law, Commercial Law, Employment Law, Immigration Law, Privacy Law, Public Law, Tax Law

Number of Students: 1 student

Prerequisites/Assets: Bilingualism is considered an asset. The lawyer supervisor is bilingual and can carry out supervision in French and English. The working language of the Canadian Red Cross National Office is English.

The following are courses that are mandatory:

• Contract Law
• Commercial Law or Business Organizations

The following are considered assets:

• Tax Law
• Charity Law

Other Requirements/Expectations:

• Solid sense of confidentiality
• Strong written and oral communication skills in both legalese and laypersons terms
• Ability to concisely synthesize complex information
• Good understanding of the Red Cross structures and movements
• Understanding and passion in working with non-profits, charities, and humanitarian organizations
• Cross-cultural capacity and ability to implement cross-cultural approaches
• Previous experience in a legal, corporate, or governmental office setting
• Ability to fully commit to the position and required hours per week
• Capacity to take on a heavier time commitment and workload than other volunteer opportunities

Eligible to Apply: 2L, 3L