Save the Date: We are excited to announce that we are planning a fundraising event during the evening of May 16, 2023 for the Ottawa Pro Bono Employment Law Clinic ("Clinic"). It will be a great opportunity to learn more about the Clinic, network with other community-minded members of the bar, and to raise funds so that this important initiative can continue serving the community. Please save the date of May 16, 2023 and stay tuned for more details.
Clinic: Operating for its 4th consecutive summer, the Pro Bono Employment Law Clinic provides (1) free employment law services to those on or below the poverty line and (2) an experiential learning opportunity for law students from May to August inclusive.
Why: Charitable donations help the Clinic meet its basic operational administrative needs. Lets come together on May 16, 2023 to have fun, all in the name of the Clinic.
Impact: The Clinic's work is critical as employment legal advice is not provided by Legal Aid Ontario (“LSO”), Pro Bono Law Ontario (“PBLO”), or other pro bono service providers. Job loss has a profound impact on one’s economic stability, and the life trajectories of workers and their families. Without proper legal advice, overwhelmed and vulnerable members of our community are rendered even more disadvantaged. The Clinic has made a substantial impact:
In 2020, the Clinic provided the equivalent of 1427 hours/$214.050.00+HST in free legal services;
In 2021, the Clinic provided the equivalent of 1510.2 hours/$220,109.00+HST in free legal services; and
In 2022, the Clinic provided the equivalent of 1035.14 hours/$202,187.70+HST in free legal services.
In 2021, over 70% of clients served were from equity-seeking groups. In 2022, 88% of the clients served were from equity seeking groups.
The Clinic also provides practical training and mentorship to law students in an area of high demand post-graduation. Since opening, the Clinic has trained over 15 law students in employment and human rights law.
Volunteer: If you are interested in learning more about employment law or are already an expert, consider volunteering with the Clinic. We are happy to train you in this space and/or benefit from your expertise. If you are interested in helping the Clinic by way of your charitable donation, come to our social event on May 16, 2023. Information will follow but for now, please save the date.
We look forward to seeing you.