Our Faculty is a place of encounter–between extraordinary people, ideas, and the world around us. It is this coming together that makes the Henry N.R. Jackman Faculty of Law what it is: an intellectual home as well as a global force.
At Jackman Law, a broad range of extracurricular activities enrich the classroom and clinical experiences. Whether exploring professional interests, volunteering with pro bono initiatives, or socializing at the law school cafe, students engage in a vast array of activities beyond the classroom.
Message from the Dean
It is an immense honour to serve as Dean of the Henry N.R. Jackman Faculty of Law. The experience of being a student here changed my life, as it has for so many others. In the time since I first walked in the door, I have been fortunate to be a part of the Jackman Law community in a number of different roles: as a student, as a faculty member, as an alumnus, and as an academic administrator. Seeing this community from all those perspectives has given me a deeper understanding of the people that shape this Faculty and a real appreciation for what they contribute to it.
Over the years, I have seen firsthand the curiosity, creativity, and commitment that define this Faculty. It is a place where ideas are taken seriously and where students and faculty push each other to think harder and better. What stands out to me is that excellence here is not only about intellect, but also about how people engage with one another and think about issues together, with curiosity, openness, and a genuine commitment to the work.
We live in a time of extraordinary challenge and opportunity. The rule of law faces pressure at home and abroad, and new technologies are reshaping how law is practiced, understood, and taught. Addressing these changes requires thoughtful, versatile, and engaged legal thinkers. At Jackman Law, we are committed to preparing our community to meet these challenges, to think critically and creatively, and to make a positive difference locally, nationally, and globally.
I am excited to work with all members of this remarkable community — students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, volunteers and other friends — as we continue to build on the achievements of this Faculty and chart new paths for the future. Together, we will ensure that Jackman Law remains a place where ideas flourish, excellence is the standard, and impact is felt around the world.
Christopher Essert
Dean and James M. Tory Chair
Henry N.R. Jackman Faculty of Law
University of Toronto
#1 in Canada, THE World University Rankings by Subject 2025 99.5% of JD students seeking articling placements in 2024 were successful 17 alumni elected to the Parliament of Canada 58 alumni appointed the Order of Canada
The U of T advantage
Being part of one of the world’s leading research intensive universities and located in one of the world’s most diverse cities, Jackman Law offers unparalleled opportunities to explore your academic, personal, and cultural interests.
Remarkable alumni network
Our graduates are among the top lawyers and leaders in Canada and around the world. A remarkable network of over 12,000 alumni, Jackman Law graduates span the legal profession, the judiciary, public service, business and beyond.