Our work
We advise, counsel and represent individuals, as well as groups, asserting their legal rights in areas most affecting students and people living in poverty. Recognizing the stress that legal matters add to already full lives, we also offer social work support to clients.
Our impact
140 law students at the clinic per year 2000 clients per year 28 paid summer case workers
Riya Thomas, former DLS summer caseworkerAs a caseworker, I was privileged to have the opportunity to represent a client in-person in court. This amazing experience cemented my passion for litigation and client facing work and I am honoured to be a part of a community that is committed to improving access to justice.
Julia Pimentel, former DLS summer caseworkerDLS is a unique workplace. There is a steep learning curve. At the same time, the clinic's environment is unmatched: between the supportive supervisors and determined fellow students, the clinic becomes a site of mentorship and inspiration that fosters the exact kind of creative, effective advocacy that our clients deserve.
Former DLS caseworkerI've learnt more from [DLS] than from all of my classes - about the law, about practice, about the profession and my place in it. I have gained a confidence that I couldn't have found anywhere else, and I'm sure that I will owe much of my future success to the things I learned from [DLS]
Community
Our student community serves and works with the diverse and vibrant urban communities of downtown Toronto. You will learn from community leaders and advocates. You will have the opportunity to meet with members in community spaces through our legal advice clinics at Evangel Hall Mission, Students Commons on St. George Campus and Native Canadian Centre for Toronto.
Student opportunities
Expand your in-class learning by doing. Work on real cases with the support and mentorship of peers and clinic lawyers. Become an advocate.
Become an advocate
Join us in the journey from law student to legal advocate. Enroll in our clinical legal education courses, social work practicum , volunteer or apply to be a summer caseworker.