Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC)
Our mission is to provide free legal support to people and communities facing barriers to justice
Founded in 1996 at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, and with Chapters at 22 law schools throughout Canada, we are the largest pro bono organization in the country.
We cultivate future leaders to tackle the most pressing social justice issues of our time. By engaging over 1,500 law students across 22 law schools, we contribute over 150,000 pro bono hours annually to increase the capacity of our community organizations.
Our Values
Dignity
We believe that every person is entitled to respect, to have their voice heard, and to fully enjoy their rights.
Equity
We stand for substantive equality, inclusion, and diversity in all of its forms. We focus on impact, not just good intentions.
Humility
We prioritize listening, learning and self-reflection. We value the wisdom of the communities we serve, and their lived experiences inform our work.
Our Approach
Collaborative
We engage 1,500 law students annually in partnership with community organizations and the legal profession.
Visionary
We cultivate future leaders, advocates and allies through training and experiential learning opportunities.
Responsive
We address complex and systemic inequities at the local community level.
Nationwide Reach
A national organization with 22 chapters at law schools across Canada
Our national office is housed at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and each student-led chapter is managed by one or more Program Coordinators (current law students).
They develop chapter projects, maintain and cultivate relationships with community organizations and lawyers, promote their PBSC Chapters, organize and host events, and recruit, train and oversee law student volunteers.
Each law school is responsible for the operation of its own PBSC chapter, including its employees, finances, programs and projects. Learn more at PBSC National.
Our History
Founded at the University of Toronto
PBSC was established in 1996 at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. At the time, it was the first and only pro bono organization in Canada.
The visionary support of founding Dean Ronald Daniels (LLB 1986) and the Law Foundation of Ontario were instrumental in launching the organization. Since its founding, PBSC combines education and public interest volunteer work, with the goal of ensuring that each new generation of lawyers would enter the profession committed to pro bono philosophy and practice.
The Right Honourable Richard Wagner, P.C., Chief Justice of Canada (2020)We will never have a perfect system, but we must try for something better...It is our responsibility to ensure that every person who interacts with a lawyer feels they are treated with humanity, with respect, and with dignity.
Photography by Kenya-Jade Pinto and Macy Yap Photography