The Comprehensive

Guide to
Law School
In Canada

V
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The Comprehensive Guide to Law School in Canada

ISBN 978-1-77255-585-1
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Table of Contents
1 PREPARING FOR LAW SCHOOL
A. Thinking of Becoming a Lawyer?

B. Overview of Lawyer Licensing Process

Step 1: Complete an Undergraduate Program
Step 2: Write the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Step 3: Apply to Law School and Complete your Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
Step 4: Write the Licensing Exam(s)
Step 5: Complete Ten Months of Articling
Step 6: The Call to the Bar (Become Licensed as a Lawyer)

C. The LSAT
i. Structure and Purpose of Test
ii. Studying for the LSAT
iii. Writing the LSAT

D. Researching Law Schools

i. Ontario Schools and Studying Out of Province

Law Schools in Ontario

Law Schools in Other Provinces
ii. Factors to Consider
iii. Available Resources

Scholarship and Financial Information

General Application Information

School-Specific Information

Law School Manual - Page 5

Table of Contents

2 APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL

A. Timeline of the Application Process
i. The Ontario Law School Application Service
ii. Important Deadlines

B. Components of the Application

i. LSAT
ii. Reference Letters
iii. Academic Background and Transcripts
iv. Sketch/Verifiers
v. Personal Statement

C. Entrance Requirements Chart

D. Where and How to Apply

i. Applying Online
ii. Application Cost

3 CHOOSING A LAW SCHOOL

A. Receiving Offers

B. Visiting Law Schools

C. Consulting with Students and Alumni

D. Accepting an Offer

E. Ontario Law Schools

i. Key Highlights and Student Insights

Osgoode Hall Law School of York University

Western University Faculty of Law

Queen’s University Faculty of Law

University of Ottawa Faculty of Law

University of Windsor Faculty of Law

University of Toronto Faculty of Law

Bora Laskin Faculty of Law of Lakehead University

Law School Manual - Page 6

Table of Contents

4 SURVIVING FIRST YEAR

A. Preparing for First Year
i. Know how YOU learn
ii. Orientation Week
iii. Textbooks

B. Structure of First Year

C. Student Services
i. Financial Assistance
ii. Mental Health Resources
iii. Mentoring

D. Getting Involved
i. Extracurriculars and Clubs
ii. Thinking Ahead

E. Lectures and Exams

i. Structure
ii. Tips and Strategies
iii. Summaries
iv. Case Briefs and Mind Maps

F. Upper-Year Course Selection

Law School Manual - Page 7

Table of Contents

5 ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEWS
A. General Comments

B. Overview of the On-Campus Interview (OCI) Process

i. Structure of the Application Process
ii. Interviews
iii. Networking and Social Events

C. Timelines and Important Dates

i. Toronto Recruitment

First-Year Summer Students

Second-Year Summer Students
ii. Ottawa Recruitment

D. Resumes and Cover Letters

6 THE ONTARIO LICENSING EXAMS

A. Overview

B. Emond Exam Prep

Law School Manual - Page 8

1 Preparing for
Law School
A. Thinking of Becoming a Lawyer?
Even if you have dreamed of becoming a lawyer since you were a child, deciding to go to
law school and preparing for it can be a daunting process. There are many steps involved,
and it requires a significant investment of time and money. However, this career path can
be very rewarding and take you in different and interesting directions throughout your
career. Before embarking on this unique journey, you should start by doing your research
and learning as much as you can about what is involved in pursuing this career path.

Your journey begins with obtaining an undergraduate degree at an accredited university.

Most law schools in Canada require you to have completed a four-year undergraduate
degree in a program of your choice. It is important to choose an area that you are
interested in for your undergraduate degree, as you will be more likely to excel and achieve
higher grades. Your undergraduate grades are a key factor in determining whether you will
be accepted into the law school of your choice. Many law schools pride themselves on
having a diverse group of students from a variety of educational backgrounds, but the
common thread is that they are high achievers in their areas of study.

To get a better idea of the legal field and the career path you are embarking on, it is a
good idea to talk to lawyers or other legal professionals. Most lawyers are more than
happy to talk to prospective students about their legal journeies and the experiences they
have had along the way. Even if you end up deciding not to practise law, a law degree can
open up many new career paths for you. A few of the most common alternative career
fields are education and academic administration, banking and finance, conflict
resolution, government and politics, human resources, legal consulting, and legal writing
and publishing. This manual will help guide you along the path to becoming a licensed
lawyer, with a focus on the licensing process in Ontario specifically.

T The Canadian Bar Association website has some useful resources for
researching where your law degree can take you.

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1 Preparing for Law School

B. Overview of Lawyer Licensing Process

To get a better idea of the path that lies ahead, this chapter summarizes the stages of the
legal licensing process in Ontario. Each of the stages mentioned will be addressed in more
detail later in this manual; however, this section provides an overview of the timeline and
steps involved.

1 Complete an Undergraduate Program

2 Write the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)

3 Apply to Law School and Complete your Juris Doctor (JD) Degree

4 Write the Licensing Exam(s)

5 Complete Ten Months of Articling

6 The Call to the Bar (Become Licensed as a Lawyer)

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1 Preparing for Law School

Step 1: Complete an Undergraduate Program

One of the most common questions that prospective law students have is: “What do I need
to study during my undergraduate degree in order to apply to law school?” The answer,
surprisingly, is: anything you want. Canadian law schools accept students from all
academic backgrounds, ranging from accounting and finance to criminology to art history.
It is important to choose an undergraduate program that reflects your interests and
enables you to excel, since your academic performance and experiences during undergrad
will help you create a strong law school application.

Step 2: Write the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)

It is common for individuals to spend a few months to a year studying for the LSAT prior to
writing the test. Once you have written the LSAT and received your score, you are ready to
start researching and applying to law schools.

Step 3: Apply to Law School and Complete your Juris Doctor (JD) Degree

In Ontario, most law school programs take three years to complete as a full-time student.
Each law school has different entrance requirements and cut-off dates, and most schools
release the entrance statistics for the students who were accepted the previous year.
These pages illustrate the average entrance scores of students from last year for each law
school within Ontario. Looking at these statistics will help you assess which schools you
would be a competitive applicant for.

Once you have determined which schools you are going to apply to, you will need to
prepare and gather the required documentation to submit your application. The majority
of law schools in Ontario require you to submit the following with your application:

• LSAT score
• Undergraduate transcripts
• A personal statement
• List of employment and volunteer experiences
• List of academic achievements

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1 Preparing for Law School

• List of extracurricular activities

• Research and publication achievements
• Reference letters

After you have gathered all of the required documentation and submitted your application,
you must wait to see if you receive any offers of acceptance. Some schools offer early
acceptances that require a response from you within a prescribed period. Once you receive
your acceptances, you may select your school of choice and begin your law degree.

Step 4: Write the Licensing Exam(s)

After obtaining your law degree (Juris Doctor, or JD), you must complete ten months of
articling and pass the licensing exam(s), also called the bar exam, in the province where
you plan to practise law. You may complete these two steps in whichever order you prefer;
however, most students choose to complete their licensing exams before they begin
articling.

In Ontario, the licensing exam consists of two multiple-choice exams: the barrister exam
and the solicitor exam. The exams are administered by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO;
formerly the Law Society of Upper Canada) and can only be written at certain times
throughout the year. Most students complete their last year of law school in April and
register to write the licensing exams several weeks later, in June. By taking this approach,
these students will be prepared to begin articling by the end of the summer, meaning they
will complete their ten months of articling and be eligible to become licensed (“Called to
the Bar”) by the following summer.

Step 5: Complete Ten Months of Articling

The topic of articling will be addressed in more detail later in this manual. In a nutshell,
articling entails working under the supervision of a licensed lawyer for ten months in
order to gain practical experience as a legal professional. Students can begin articling as
soon as they complete law school, but most students wait until after they have written
their licensing exams in June. That way, if the firm you articled for wishes to hire you to
continue working as a licensed lawyer, you will be able to continue working without having
to take a break to write and pass the licensing exams.

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1 Preparing for Law School

Step 6: The Call to the Bar (Become Licensed as a Lawyer)

In Ontario, the Call to the Bar is a formal ceremony held by the Law Society of Ontario in
which you become officially licensed to practise as a lawyer. Some documentation must
be submitted in order to be Called to the Bar, and the LSO website has helpful resources
outlining what is required. Most law schools within Ontario will begin to notify you during
your third year of studies about what documentation is required in order to prepare
for your Call to the Bar. You must have completed your law degree (JD), your articles, and
the licensing exams in order to be Called to the Bar.

C. The LSAT
i. Structure and Purpose of Test

Nearly all law schools within Canada and the United States require the Law School
Admission Test as one component of a student’s admission file. The LSAT is used to
measure skills that are considered to be critical for success in law school. The LSAT
measures a candidate’s ability to read and comprehend complex texts, to organize and
manage information, to draw reasonable inferences and think critically, as well as to
analyze and evaluate the reasoning and arguments of others.

The LSAT is a primarily multiple-choice test made up of five 35-minute sections. Four out
of the five sections make up the test taker’s score; these sections include: reading
comprehension, analytical reasoning, and two logical reasoning sections. The fifth section
is an unscored section usually used to pretest new test questions for a later sitting of the
test. The placement of the unscored section will vary and is not identified to test takers
until they receive their score report. There is also a 35-minute unscored writing sample
section at the end of the test. Copies of the writing sample section are sent to all the law
schools you apply to.

The reading comprehension section measures a candidate’s ability to read, with

understanding and insight, lengthy and complex texts similar to those that will be
encountered in law school. The reading comprehension section of the LSAT contains four
sets of reading questions, each consisting of a selection of reading material followed by
five to eight questions. The reading selection in three of the four sets consists of a single

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1 Preparing for Law School

reading passage; the other set contains two related shorter passages. Reading selections
for this section of the LSAT are drawn from a wide variety of subjects in the humanities
and social sciences, the biological and physical sciences, and areas related to the law.
Usually, the selections are densely written, using high-level vocabulary, and contain
sophisticated arguments or multiple points of view. Reading comprehension questions
require the test taker to read carefully and accurately while at the same time determining
the relationships among the various parts of the text and drawing reasonable inferences
from the material in the selection.

The analytical reasoning section measures a candidate’s ability to understand a structure

of relationships and to draw logical conclusions about that structure. Analytical reasoning
questions appear in sets, and each set of questions is based on a single passage. The
passage used for each set describes common ordering relationships, grouping relationships,
or a combination of both types of relationships. Analytical reasoning questions reflect the
kinds of detailed analyses of relationships and sets of constraints that a law student must
perform in legal problem solving. However, the specific scenarios associated with these
questions are usually unrelated to law, since they are intended to be accessible to a wide
range of test takers. In analytical reasoning questions, test takers are asked to reason
deductively from a set of statements and rules that describe relationships among
persons, things, or events.

The logical reasoning section measures a candidate’s ability to analyze, critically evaluate,
and complete arguments as they occur in ordinary language. The questions are based on
short arguments drawn from a wide variety of sources, including newspapers, general
interest magazines, scholarly publications, advertisements, and informal discourses.
These arguments mirror legal reasoning in the types of arguments presented and in their
complexity, though few of the arguments actually contain law-related subject matter. Each
logical reasoning question requires you to read and comprehend a short passage, and
then answer one or two questions about it. The questions are designed to assess a wide
range of skills involved in thinking critically, with an emphasis on skills that are central to
legal reasoning.

The writing sample portion of the exam is sent out to the law schools that you apply to,
and most schools use the sample to evaluate at least some applicants for admission. The
writing sample is not scored and does not make up part of your LSAT evaluation. The writing

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1 Preparing for Law School

prompt presents a problem, and you are asked to make a choice between two positions or
courses of action. Both of the choices are defensible, and you are given criteria and facts
on which to base your decision. There is no “right” or “wrong” position to take on the
topic, so the quality of each test taker’s response is a function not of which choice is made
but of how well or poorly the choice is supported and how well or poorly the other choice
is criticized. The LSAT writing prompt was designed and validated by legal education
professionals. Since it involves writing based on fact sets and criteria, the writing sample
gives applicants the opportunity to demonstrate the type of argumentative writing that is
required in law school, although the topics are usually non-legal. You will have 35 minutes
in which to plan and write an essay on the topic you receive. No special knowledge is
required or expected for this writing exercise. Law schools are interested in the reasoning,
clarity, organization, language usage, and writing mechanics displayed in your essay. How
well you write is more important than how much you write.

ii. Studying for the LSAT

In order to best prepare for the LSAT, it is recommended that you complete practice tests
and sample questions to get an idea of the structure of the test. There are free sample
tests available at https://www.lsac.org/jd/lsat/preparing-for-the-lsat. You can also
purchase additional practice materials at https://www.lsac.org/jd/lsat/preptools or at most
commercial bookstores. Completing timed practice tests is the best way to improve your
score and train yourself for test day. Be sure to also attempt a writing sample section under
time constraints. By timing yourself, you will be able to determine how much time you can
afford to spend on each question, as well as which sections and question types you should
spend additional time practising. Practice tests will also help you to become acquainted
with the test format and instructions, so these won’t distract you on test day.

You may also consider enrolling in an LSAT preparation course. These courses typically
offer a series of sessions over the course of a month or two, and include prep materials
such as practice exams, sample questions, and strategies on how to answers the types of
questions found in each section of the exam. Some courses provide online-only sessions,
while others include face-to-face lessons with an instructor. Most courses also provide a
mock exam during the final session or class. Some of the companies that provide LSAT prep
courses include Kaplan Test Prep, Harvard Ready, Oxford Seminars, and The Princeton

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1 Preparing for Law School

Review. Some law schools, such as Osgoode Hall Law School and the University of Toronto,
also offer free LSAT prep courses to students with financial need. It is important to do your
research and investigate whether a prep course is the right study method for you. Visiting
or calling the prep course companies you are considering before signing up is a good
idea—that way you can see if the learning environment and strategy is the right fit for you.
Prep courses are by no means required for the LSAT, and many students have successfully
written the LSAT without completing a prep course.

It is important that you start studying for the LSAT as early as you can. By exposing
yourself to the test questions early on, you will have more time to develop strategies and
understand how the test works. You should also try to identify your weaknesses and focus
on those areas in your studies—remember that it is what you do in between practice exams
that helps you raise your score each time you write. Understanding what type of learner
you are is also vital. If you are someone who needs to be in a classroom setting, then
taking a prep course is probably the best route for you. If you are an interactive learner
who prefers self-paced study, then an online course or self-taught approach might be best.

iii. Writing the LSAT

The LSAT costs approximately $250 to write. You can register to take the test and find
out more information about the LSAT on the Law School Admission Council website:
https://www.lsac.org/lsat/taking-lsat. The LSAT is only offered at certain times throughout
the year, as well as at certain test centre locations. Most test centre locations are at
educational institutions and facilities, such as universities. Many law schools require that
the LSAT be taken by December at the latest for admission the following fall. However, we
suggest taking the test earlier, in June or September/October, rather than waiting until
December. That way, if you are unsatisfied with your initial test score, you are able to
retake the test during the December sitting, before law school application deadlines.

On test day, test takers are allowed to bring only one item into the test room: a clear
plastic zip-lock bag (maximum size: one gallon), which must be stored under their chairs
and may only be accessed during breaks. The zip-lock bag may contain only the following
items: the LSAT admission ticket, valid ID, wallet, keys, medical products, feminine hygiene
products, tissues, No. 2 or HB wooden pencils (no mechanical pencils are allowed), an
eraser, a pencil sharpener, highlighters, a beverage in a plastic container or juice box, and

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1 Preparing for Law School

a snack. No electronic devices are permitted in the test room, and test takers may only
wear an analog (non-digital) wristwatch.

Since you’re allowed to bring highlighters to the test, making quick notes and highlighting
as you read through passages can be a major help. Try not to rush through the test, be
sure to pace yourself, and leave a few minutes at the end of each section to review your
answers. Doing a number of practice tests ahead of time will help you develop an
appropriate pace for working through the test.

You can expect to receive your test score approximately three to four weeks after writing the
test. There is no pass or fail outcome for the LSAT: the test is scored in a range from 120 to
180, with 180 being the highest possible score. Your LSAT score is based on the number of
questions that you answered correctly; there are no deductions for incorrect answers.
Therefore, be sure to answer all questions, and take your best guess if you find yourself
running out of time. All questions are weighted the same. If you do not get your ideal
score after the first attempt, you can always rewrite the test. However, keep in mind that
law schools will have access to your complete test record and not just your highest score.

D. Researching Law Schools

i. Ontario Schools and Studying Out of Province

There are many law schools in Ontario, as well as several in other provinces. The full list is
as follows:

Law Schools in Ontario

• Lakehead University
• Osgoode Hall Law School (York University)
• Queen’s University
• University of Ottawa
• University of Toronto
• Western University
• University of Windsor

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1 Preparing for Law School

Law Schools in Other Provinces

• Dalhousie University
• McGill University
• Thompson Rivers University
• Université de Montréal
• University of Alberta
• University of British Columbia
• University of Calgary
• University of Manitoba
• University of Moncton
• University of New Brunswick
• Université de Sherbrooke
• University of Saskatchewan
• University of Victoria

Students who plan to practise law in Ontario but attend law school in another province
should keep in mind that the laws and legal procedures they learn in school will be
specific to that jurisdiction. This can pose a challenge when it comes to preparing for the
licensing exams in Ontario. Students who opt for this arrangement need to be prepared to
dedicate additional time and effort when they prepare for their Ontario licensing exams,
as there will be a steeper learning curve.

ii. Factors to Consider

When considering which law schools to apply to, there are many factors to consider. A key
concern for many individuals is the cost of law school. Tuition fees for law schools within
Ontario are by no means cheap, and you have to be prepared to spend a significant
amount of money when embarking on the law school journey. For some, this means
acquiring debt in order to finance their law degree. Beyond the cost of tuition, you must
also plan for the costs associated with housing, transportation, lifestyle, school materials,
and casebooks.

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1 Preparing for Law School

Schools within Ontario vary somewhat when it comes to tuition costs. The next section
provides links to the financing sections of each law school in Ontario, so that you can get
an idea as to what tuition will cost. Some schools offer scholarships and financial
assistance programs to help students pay for law school. The availability of such resources
can be an important factor in deciding which school to attend.

The last factor to consider when researching law schools is whether the school offers any
unique programs or extracurricular activities that interest you. For example, some law
schools within Ontario offer dual/combined programs such as a JD/MBA or JD/MES. Some
schools also offer combined programs with universities in the United States so that
students can obtain law degrees in both countries. Each of the law schools within Ontario
has a variety of clubs and volunteer opportunities that are unique to them, so you should
take some time to visit each school’s website and research what it has to offer. Talking to
current students as well as alumni can also help you gain better insight into the programs
that are offered.

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1 Preparing for Law School

These pages provide a quick reference guide to MCGILL UNIVERSITY

$4,388
help you compare Canadian common law
First Year
programs taught in English. All information Tuition Costs ‘18
displayed reflects the most recent data made
available by each law school or the Law
Students Admissions Council (LSAC). If a law
162 3.7 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 183
Median
GPA
14.7%
school is not displayed, it is because there was Total Applicants: 1249 Acceptance Rate

insufficient data available for it. Website: mcgill.ca/law

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO YORK UNIVERSITY

$34,980 First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $27,243 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

166 3.8 Median

LSAT
First Year Class Size: 208
Median
GPA
9.5%
161 3.7 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 301
Median
GPA
10.5%
Total Applicants: 2199 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 2873 Acceptance Rate

Website: law.utoronto.ca Website: osgoode.yorku.ca

QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR

$19,246 First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 N/A First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

161 3.7 Average

LSAT
First Year Class Size: 200
Average
GPA
7.3%
N/A Median
LSAT N/A
First Year Class Size: 246
Median
GPA
12.4%
Total Applicants: 2737 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 1978 Acceptance Rate

Website: law.queensu.ca Website: uwindsor.ca/law

UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN ONTARIO

N/A First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $22,785 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

N/A Median
LSAT N/A
First Year Class Size: 320 12.1%
Median
GPA 162 3.7 Average
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 176
Average
GPA
8.0%
Total Applicants: 2637 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 2200 Acceptance Rate

Website: commonlaw.uottawa.ca/en Website: law.uwo.ca

Law School Manual - Page 20

1 Preparing for Law School

UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA

$12,391 First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $11,000 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

166 3.9 Median

LSAT
First Year Class Size: 191
Median
GPA
12.2%
165 3.9 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 113
Median
GPA
10.7%
Total Applicants: 1562 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 1058 Acceptance Rate

Website: allard.ubc.ca Wesbite: uvic.ca/law

UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA

$13,700 First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $14,424 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

161 3.7 Average

LSAT
First Year Class Size: 130
Average
GPA
11.0%
161 3.8 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 160
Median
GPA
15.1%
Total Applicants: 1184 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 1061 Acceptance Rate

Website: law.ucalgary.ca Website: ualberta.ca/law

UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN

$12,500 First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $13,003 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

161 3.9 Median

LSAT
First Year Class Size: 107
Median
GPA
16.1%
158 3.4 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 130
Median
GPA
13.2%
Total Applicants: 665 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 984 Acceptance Rate

Website: law.robsonhall.com Website: law.usask.ca

DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW BRUNSWICK

N/A First Year

Tuition Costs ‘18 $10,576 First Year
Tuition Costs ‘18

N/A Median
LSAT N/A
First Year Class Size: 170
Median
GPA
13.1%
158 3.8 Median
LSAT
First Year Class Size: 92
Median
GPA
12.9%
Total Applicants: 1300 Acceptance Rate Total Applicants: 715 Acceptance Rate

Website: dal.ca/faculty/law.html Website: unb.ca/fredericton/law

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1 Preparing for Law School

iii. Available Resources

Scholarship and Financial Information

• Bora Laskin Faculty of Law: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-lakehead/#financial

• Osgoode Hall Law School: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-osgoode/#financial
-services
• University of Ottawa: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-ottawa/#scholarships
• Queen’s University: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-queens/#financial
• University of Toronto: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-toronto/#financial
• Western University: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-western/#supp
• University of Windsor: https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-windsor/#entrance

General Application Information

• Ontario Universities’ Application Centre: https://www.ouac.on.ca/olsas/

School-Specific Information

• Bora Laskin Faculty of Law: https://www.lakeheadu.ca/academics/departments/law

• Osgoode Hall Law School: https://www.osgoode.yorku.ca
• University of Ottawa: http://commonlaw.uottawa.ca/en
• Queen’s University: https://law.queensu.ca
• University of Toronto: https://www.law.utoronto.ca
• Western University: https://law.uwo.ca
• University of Windsor: http://www.uwindsor.ca

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2 Applying to
Law School
A. Timeline of the Application Process
i. The Ontario Law School Application Service

The Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS) is a centralized service for all
students applying to law schools within Ontario. OLSAS is operated by the Ontario
Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). While OLSAS provides a single application
processing service, each law school is autonomous in reaching its admission decisions.
Each applicant completes one common application form and provides one set of
academic documents, which are then accessible to the applicant’s chosen law schools.
The application website is at https://www.ouac.on.ca/apply/olsas/en_CA/user/login.

ii. Important Deadlines

When it comes to applying to law school, it is critical that you make note of important
dates and deadlines for submitting the required documentation and completing your
application. The usual application deadline for first-year law programs is November 1st
of the year prior to your start date, although this may vary. At this time, your application
must be complete, and OLSAS must have received your transcripts and reference letters.
There are a few exceptions to this timeline—for example, the application deadline for
the first-year French program offered at the University of Ottawa is March 1st of the same
year you intend to begin school. The application deadline for the combined Canadian and
American Dual JD Program at the University of Windsor is mid-April, usually April 15th.
If you are applying to upper-year programs instead of the first-year law program, then
applications are due in the spring, usually May 1st.

If you are still completing coursework in the January – April semester, OLSAS must receive
your final transcripts by June 30th of the year you intend to begin school. Transcripts are
requested through the OLSAS online application system and sent to OLSAS from your
previous educational institutions. If you run into issues requesting transcripts, contact
OLSAS, your university’s Student Services department, or your academic adviser.

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2 Applying to Law School

The deadline for paying for your applications is one week after the respective application
deadline. If you receive any provisional acceptances, these become firm acceptances at
the beginning of July (approximately two months before you would start law school). All
deadlines operate with an 11:59 p.m. EST cut-off time.

B. Components of the Application

Several components make up your online application. The following are key pieces of
information that will need to be submitted to complete your law school applications on
the OLSAS service.

i. LSAT

On the OLSAS website, you will be asked to enter your Law School Admission Counsel
(LSAC) account number under “LSAT” in the online application. With that number, OLSAS
will be able to retrieve your LSAT results. The account number is a nine-digit identification
number beginning with an uppercase “L” followed by eight numbers and is assigned by
LSAC. Enter the most recent LSAT date and/or the date you plan to write the LSAT. Be sure
to update your application if your test date changes. Also note that the LSAT is not
required if you plan to apply to Ottawa’s French programs only.

Once OLSAS receives your application, it will request your LSAT scores from the LSAC. It is
important that you confirm the status of your registration with LSAC, as LSAC will provide
LSAT reports to OLSAS only if you are a current registrant. Also, keep in mind that some
law schools require that the LSAT be written by a specific date. The LSAT registration fee
includes up to five years of score reporting to law schools that request your report. It is
not necessary to write the LSAT before applying to OLSAS.

ii. Reference Letters

Most, if not all, law schools require that you ask individuals (“referees”) to provide a
reference on your behalf. Referees may submit their reference letters online or by mail.
If you provide an email address for your referee to OLSAS, they will be required to complete
the reference online. Ensure that your referee is prepared to use the online form before

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2 Applying to Law School

providing their email address to OLSAS. Once you have added a referee’s email address,
select “Send Email” to notify them about completing their online reference in a secure
environment. It is your responsibility to ensure your referee received the email and
successfully submitted the reference to OLSAS.

If your reference does not have an email address or prefers to submit their reference in
hard-copy format, you can download the form and provide it to them. Your referee must
then mail in the form with their accompanying letter to OLSAS when it is complete. Only
one version of the reference can be submitted. You will not be able change your referees
once they have been emailed or once the forms have been downloaded. Ensure that you
give your referees sufficient time to complete their reference letters and submit them to
OLSAS by the deadline.

You will notice that some schools have requirements about the types of references
required. Most law schools require that one of your references come from an academic
source. It is recommended that you choose a professor who has taught you or supervised
your work—while conducting research, for example. Ideally, your referee will be someone
you have developed a relationship with and who can attest to your conduct as a student,
as well as someone who can describe the personality traits you possess that would make
you a valuable member of the legal profession.

iii. Academic Background and Transcripts

On the OLSAS application website, record the last high school you attended and list all
post-secondary institutions you have attended. These include the following: community
colleges/CEGEPs, universities, junior colleges, and graduate schools. You must also
request official transcripts from each university, college, CEGEP, junior college, graduate
school, and other post-secondary institutions at which you have registered. Note that
these include transcripts from any foreign institutions that you attended while studying
abroad on exchange. OLSAS does not require International Baccalaureate or Advanced
Placement transcripts. To be considered “official,” transcripts must be sent directly from
the institution’s Registrar’s Office to OLSAS, be printed on the institution’s official
transcript paper, and be imprinted with the school’s seal and/or bear the appropriate
signatures. OLSAS will not accept any photocopies of transcripts. Only one copy of your
transcripts is required. If you attended or are currently enrolled at an Ontario university,

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2 Applying to Law School

you must request your transcript through your online application. If you attended or are
currently enrolled at an Ontario college, you may request your transcript through your
online application. By completing the online transcript request and forwarding the
appropriate fees, you authorize the OUAC to arrange for your official transcripts to be sent
to OLSAS, and you do not need to contact the Registrar’s Office directly.

iv. Sketch/Verifiers

Your sketch is an opportunity for you to include details of your activities and experiences
in the following categories: full-time employment, part-time employment, volunteer
activities, extracurricular activities, academic honours and achievements, and research/
publications. Indicate the duration and nature of your involvement in these activities, and
use discretion in deciding which details to report. Think of this section of the application
as a modified version of your resume: explain the role you played in each experience as
well as the duration of each, and highlight any unique factors or key skills that arose from
your involvement. All law schools use this information when making admissions decisions.

For “Employment History,” specify the name of your employer, your job title, and a short
description of the nature of the work. Account for all years since you completed high
school. OLSAS will arrange the sketch in the order required by the law schools. The sketch
complements any personal statement requirement, and OLSAS recommends that you
provide full information in the sketch. It is important that you also accurately document
any breaks in time for the activities listed, including a change from full-time to part-time
employment (or vice versa). If necessary, use multiple entries for the same employer or
activity to properly indicate changes in status or time periods.

For each activity mentioned in your sketch, you will need to provide the name, address,
and telephone number of a contact who can verify your involvement in that activity. Any
activities that can be substantiated by academic transcripts (e.g., scholarships, special
commendations) do not require verifiers. Law schools reserve the right to confirm the
information provided in these sections by consulting the individuals you listed as verifiers,
so be sure that you do not mislead or misrepresent your involvement.

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2 Applying to Law School

v. Personal Statement

Some law schools require you to provide additional information as part of your online
application. This information could include writing a personal essay or answering optional
questions, such as the following: “Describe how you plan to contribute to the legal
community,” or “How do you stand out as a candidate compared to other applicants?”
The number of questions and additional information required varies from school to
school. It is important that you think critically and reflect on the experiences you have
had, both personally and academically, to provide a holistic and compelling answer. The
personal statement and question sections allow law schools to glimpse who you are as
an individual beyond your academic accomplishments. If you have endured personal
hardships or had unique experiences that have influenced your academic journey or future
professional goals, it is important that you find a way to weave them into your responses.

Your personal statement is an opportunity for admissions committees to hear your voice.
Instead of reiterating the items on your resume, focus on sharing your story. What makes
you unique? Did a particular experience spark your passion for the law? What do you hope
to achieve with a career in law? These questions are just a few examples to kick-start your
thinking. You can find more details about what to include in your personal statement by
visiting each law school’s admissions web page. Some schools offer a variety of prompts
or suggested tips, while others offer sample statements that can provide you with
guidance. Once you’ve narrowed down what you want to talk about in your statement,
make sure you give yourself enough time to actually write it. It may take several days, even
weeks, to craft a compelling personal statement—one that is clear, cohesive, and free of
errors. You might also want to account for time to allow a friend or family member to
proofread your statement to ensure that it is well-written and impactful. Make sure to give
yourself enough time to tailor your personal statement to fit the requirements of each law
school (e.g., meeting word/character limits, answering specific questions, etc.).

C. Entrance Requirements Chart

The following chart depicts the entrance requirements for each of the law schools within
Ontario for the 2018 application period. The updated requirements for new application
cycles will be posted at https://www.ouac.on.ca/guide/olsas-program-requirements/.

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2 Applying to Law School

Bora Laskin Osgoode Hall

(Lakehead Law School University Queen’s University Western University
Univeristy) (York University) of Ottawa University of Toronto University of Windsor

First-Year Class 57 290 309 200 206 176 160 ( JD)

Size 2016 85 ( JD/JD)

Number of 544 2,758 2,615 2,351 2,109 2,123 1,710 ( JD)

Applicants in 437 ( JD/JD)
2017

Part-Time, N/A Extended time Half-time Part-time (up Half-time Extended time Half-time
Half-Time, to five spaces
Extended Time available)

Minimum Three years or JD requires three Three years Three years or Three years; almost all Three years of Three years or
Under­graduate more; undergrad- years or more or more; more; completion admitted applicants full-time (or more is preferred;
Academic uate program at a recognized undergradu- of undergrad- have completed a equivalent) most successful
Requirements completion is university in a ate program uate degree is four-year degree. university study is applicants have
preferred. program leading completion preferred and is required. completed an
to a degree; is strongly required for com- undergraduate de-
JD/MA (Philos- encouraged. bined programs. gree; Canadian and
ophy) requires American dual JD
the completion program requires
of a four-year the completion of
honours under- a four-year under-
graduate degree graduate degree by
in Philosophy. the beginning of
August in the year
of entry.

LSAT Test must be tak- Earliest ac- June 2013; Earliest accept- Earliest acceptable Earliest test ac- June 2013; highest
en in or after June ceptable score highest score; able test date: test date: June 2013; cepted: June 2013; score; no minimum
2013; no minimum June 2013; latest no minimum June 2013; latest latest acceptable latest test ac- LSAT score; the
LSAT score; acceptable score LSAT score. test accepted: test date: February cepted: February weight given to
highest score February 2018; February 2018; 2018; most successful 2018; scores of the LSAT varies,
used—the weight highest score. highest score. applicants score 160 160 or higher are depending on
given to the LSAT and above. considered most the fulfillment of
varies depending competitive; high- other application
on the fulfillment est score is used elements.
of other elements for admission
of the application. purposes, al-
though all scores
are reviewed.

GPA Competitive Most successful Most successful Most successful Most successful Most successful Holistic lens that
applications have applicants have applicants have applicants have applicants have a applicants have considers:
an overall aca- a cumulative GPA a cumulative a cumulative cumulative GPA of “A−” a cumulative 1. university
demic standing of “A−.” GPA of “A−.” undergraduate or higher. undergraduate program
of “B+”/75% with average of “A−.” average of “A−” or 2. work experience
an “A−”/80% in 3.7 GPA. 3. community
the last 2 years involvement
of study at the 4. personal
undergraduate accomplishments
level. 5. career objectives
6. personal
considerations
7. LSAT scores.

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2 Applying to Law School

Bora Laskin Osgoode Hall

(Lakehead Law School University Queen’s University Western University
Univeristy) (York University) of Ottawa University of Toronto University of Windsor

Personal Required from all Required from all Required from Required from all Required from all Required from all Personal Profile
Statements applicants. applicants. all applicants. applicants. applicants. applicants. is required from
every applicant.

Referee Forms Two letters of Two required; Two required Please provide References are not General, Access One academic
(Letter of reference are at least one by all; at least one academic required. and Aboriginal/ reference form and
Reference) required (one academic refer- one from an reference. No Indigenous—two one non-academic
academic and ence is strongly academic more than three (one academ- reference form.
one may be recommended. source. letters of refer- ic required);
non-academic). ence may be filed Mature—two ref-
to support an erences required.
application.

Programs JD. JD, JD/MBA, JD/ JD, JD/MA, JD/ JD, JD part-time, JD, JD half-time, JD/ JD, JD/MBA, JD/ JD, JD Half-time,
MES, JD/MA (Phil), MBA, Canadian JD/MBA, MIR/ MA (Criminology), JD/ Extended. Canadian and
JD/Extended. and American JD, MPA/JD, MA MA (Economics), JD/MA American Dual JD,
Dual JD, PDC (Econ)/JD. (English), JD/MA (Eu- MSW/JD, MBA/JD,
(Combined JD/ ropean and Russian LLM.
LLL). Affairs), JD/MBA, JD/
MGA (Global Affairs),
JD/MI (Information),
JD/MPP (Public Policy),
JD/MSW (Social Work),
JD/PhD (Economics),
JD/PhD (Philosophy),
JD/PhD (Political
Science), JD/Certifi-
cate Aboriginal Legal
Studies, JD/Certificate
Environmental Studies,
JD/Certificate Sexual
Diversity Studies, JD/
Collaborative Pro-
gram—Jewish Studies.

Categories General, General, General, General, General, Mature, General, General,

Aboriginal/ Aboriginal/ Special Aboriginal/ Aboriginal/ Aboriginal/ Aboriginal/
Indigenous, Indigenous. Circumstances, Indigenous, Indigenous. Indigenous, Indigenous.
Access. Access, Mature, Access (includes Access, Mature.
Aboriginal/ disadvantaged,
Indigenous. disabled and ma-
ture applicants).

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2 Applying to Law School

D. Where and How to Apply

i. Applying Online

The application process is quite lengthy, and the exact amount of time required to complete
your application will depend on the number of law schools you apply to. You should allow
for 5 to 25 hours to prepare your application. You can begin the process by creating a
username and password on the OUAC website: https://www.ouac.on.ca/. You will need
these credentials to create an application, as well as to make updates or changes to it.

Your application will not be submitted until you click on “Verify and Submit” and
complete the submission process. Upon doing so, you will receive a confirmation number.
Once you have submitted your application, OLSAS will forward it to all of the requested
law schools, regardless of your qualifications and the completeness of your application.
After you have submitted your application, you will not be able to make changes to the
following information: academic record (except to add an institution), school submissions,
sketch/verifiers, referees, and status in Canada. Therefore, you should ensure that your
application is complete and up to date before the application deadline. Each Ontario law
school has its own admissions requirements and reserves the right to determine whether
degrees granted by post-secondary institutions are suitable for the purpose of admission.
Be aware of these variations, and be sure you qualify for consideration before paying and
submitting your applications to OLSAS.

To ensure that you are considered by the schools of your choosing, study the application
procedures for each law school you apply to. Be sure to submit your application and
supporting documents before the deadlines. It is vital that you give your referees

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sufficient time to complete their references and submit them to OLSAS before the
deadline. After submitting your application, you will receive an OUAC/OLSAS reference
number. You will also receive a confirmation number when you successfully submit
changes to your application and/or respond to offers of admission. You will be able to
monitor your documentation in the “Document Tracking” section as soon as you create
your application. It is your responsibility to ensure that OLSAS receives the application
and all required supporting documentation by the required deadline. Failure to comply
with the admissions requirements and deadlines will likely result in your application
being cancelled. Additionally, any unsolicited application materials and information that
you submit is unlikely to be considered for admission purposes.

ii. Application Cost

The cost of applying to law schools entails a flat application service fee of $200 to use the
OLSAS system, plus an additional $100 or $125 fee for each law school you apply to. Some
schools also charge a $12 fee for each transcript request. Your application will not be
forwarded to the law school until you submit the full payment. If you pay a fee and then
wish to withdraw your application, you will not receive a refund. For information on how to
waive a law school’s $100 fee on the basis of financial need, consult the individual law
school in the OLSAS online application, or contact the law school directly. Payment for your
applications is part of the final “Submit” process of the OLSAS online system. Take note
that the following forms of payment are accepted: credit card, online banking/e-transfer,
and Western Union Business Solutions. For more information about payment options, visit
https://www.ouac.on.ca/fees/.

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3 Choosing a
Law School
A. Receiving Offers
Law schools may make offers of admission any time after your application is received.
To respond to an offer of admission, you must log into your OLSAS account. After you
submit a response, you will be locked out of your application for one business day. Only
one offer of admission may be accepted at a time. It is important to note that once you
officially accept a law school’s offer, your other choices will be marked “Decline: No
Further Consideration.” Your applications to any other Ontario law schools will be
cancelled, and you will be removed from all wait lists.

You also have the option of providing a “provisional acceptance” to an offer. If you decide
to give a provisional acceptance, you must indicate which other choices you wish to
remain active. If you do not indicate that you still wish to be considered for a specific
choice, it will be marked as “Decline: No Further Consideration.” Provisional acceptances
to first-year programs will automatically become firm at the beginning of July. Any time
you make a change to your account, by accepting or declining an offer, you will need to
click “Review/Submit” before exiting and follow through with the “Submit” process. You
will be given a confirmation number after exiting and making changes.

If you receive more than one offer of admission, you must make a decision. This can be a
difficult decision to make, and this chapter will cover some important factors to consider
before making it. Some schools will include perks in their offers, such as entrance
scholarships, which may only be available upon a firm acceptance to the school by a
certain date. Be sure to consider each offer you receive carefully and keep track of any
important deadlines that are outlined.

B. Visiting Law Schools

Visiting the schools that you plan on applying to is a great way to determine whether you
could see yourself attending those schools and living in the surrounding areas. By visiting
schools before you apply, you can weed out the schools you are not interested in attending.

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3 Choosing a Law School

This can save you a lot of time and money when it comes to the application process. If you
are unable to take such an approach prior to applying, it is highly recommended that you
at least visit the schools where you’ve received an offer of acceptance.

Signing up for a campus tour is a great way to get a feel for a school’s educational
environment, as well as talking to representatives from the school about what programs
and extracurricular activities are offered. Campus tours give you a first-hand look into life
at each law school and provide you with a solid understanding of the schools’ environments.
Most law schools in Ontario offer prospective students the opportunity to schedule
campus tours led by current law students. These tours allow you to learn about the law
school’s facilities, the structure of the law program, and other unique opportunities
offered at the school. A campus tour also allows you to ask any questions you may have
regarding the program, as well as to receive advice from someone currently enrolled in
the school’s law program. Most schools include information about signing up for campus
tours in their offers of acceptance.

Another great way to gain a better understanding of a law school that you are considering
is to attend a lecture. It is usually easy to find an ongoing lecture when wandering through
the school, and most professors won’t mind if you pop in for a few minutes to listen. Just
remember to be courteous and ensure that you do not cause any disruption when entering
or exiting the lecture hall. It is recommended that you sit near the back, if possible, to
avoid causing any distraction to the professor or students. However, don’t worry if
attending a lecture is not an option for you. Most law schools participate in recruitment
events across the province that provide applicants with opportunities to speak to staff
and students about the school and program. Below is a list of links from schools in
Ontario that provide more information about recruitment events:

• Osgoode Hall Law School of York University: https://www.osgoode.yorku.ca/programs/

juris-doctor/jd-admissions/admissions-events/
• Western University: https://law.uwo.ca/future_students/jd_admissions/recruitment
_events.html
• Queen’s University: https://law.queensu.ca/jd-admissions/information-events
• University of Ottawa: https://commonlaw.uottawa.ca/en/students/admissions/
recruitment-2015
• University of Toronto: https://www.law.utoronto.ca/events/day

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3 Choosing a Law School

C. Consulting with Students and Alumni

Another great way to get more information about a law school is to go directly to the
source and talk to current or past students. Most students and alumni are more than
willing to talk about their experiences and provide useful insights into their everyday lives
at law school. If you sign up for a campus tour, you will be put in touch with a current
student who can answer many of the questions you have regarding the law school you are
considering. If you are looking to speak to current students without attending a tour, many
law schools have “student ambassadors” who have volunteered to speak to prospective
students who have questions about the law program or the life of a law student at that
school. Contact Student Services/Academic Services at the law school you are interested
in to find out how you can connect with a current student.

Once you have been put in touch with a current student, it is a good idea to ask them any
questions you have about the program and school. Some common questions to ask are:

• How is the first-year curriculum structured?

• What extracurricular/volunteer opportunities are offered at or unique to the school?
• Are there placement programs or experiential learning opportunities offered?
• Can I afford the cost of tuition?
• How does the student balance school and a social life?
• What are their suggestions on where to live on- or off-campus?
• What are some particular courses that are highly recommended and unique to the
school?
• What professors are highly rated?

You can also learn a lot about a particular school by speaking to alumni. Alumni can not
only give you insight into what it is like to attend the school but also where your degree
can take you once you have graduated. Most law schools have a list of alumni that have
volunteered to act as mentors to students currently attending law school. Some schools
may be able to put prospective students in touch with these individuals for insight into
their educational and employment experiences.

It is also strongly recommended that you reach out to friends and family members who
have attended law school. People within your existing network may be more willing to
discuss their experiences with you in an open and honest manner. Speaking to a variety

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3 Choosing a Law School

of people, including those who have attended schools other than the ones you are
considering, can provide you with a wealth of knowledge before you even begin your legal
studies. These conversations can help you develop a better understanding of what to
expect from your legal education and career.

Below are some resources to help you get into contact with current students and alumni
from Ontario law schools:

• Osgoode Hall Law School of York University: https://www.osgoode.yorku.ca/programs/

juris-doctor/jd-admissions/contact-us/
• Western University: https://law.uwo.ca/future_students/jd_admissions/student
_ambassadors.html
• University of Windsor: http://www.uwindsor.ca/law/389/contact-us
• University of Toronto: https://www.law.utoronto.ca/admissions/jd-admissions/
jd-admissions-enquiries

D. Accepting an Offer
If you receive offers from more than one law school, determining which school is right for
you can be stressful and difficult. Most Canadian law schools have a positive reputation,
and many people will say that you can’t go wrong in choosing to pursue a legal education
within Canada. However, there are some important factors that you should consider when
determining which law school is the right one for you.

One of the most important considerations is location. Are you prepared to uproot your life
and move to a new city for the next three years? If the answer is no, then you have likely
narrowed down your choices. It is also important to consider the cost of moving and living
in a new city, should you choose to relocate. Consider whether you would live on- or
off-campus, and inquire with the school about the housing options available. If you don’t
move, is there a school within driving distance of where you live? Consider the cost of
commuting by car or public transit and whether or not this is a feasible option for the next
three years. Ideally, your living situation will provide you with a sense of comfort while you
are studying. Law school can be demanding and stressful, so ensuring you have a
comfortable living situation can help you feel less overwhelmed.

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3 Choosing a Law School

Consider the type of law that you want to practise. Certain schools have reputations for
specializing in certain areas of the law. This is often because of location or the combined
programs that are offered at the school. You should also contemplate whether you would
be interested in doing a combined degree. Researching the faculty members at each
school is a good idea, as this is a factor that can play a part in which school you choose,
particularly if you are interested in a certain area of the law. If you aren’t sure which area
of law you want to practise in, that’s fine too. First-year programs tend to be generalized
to give students broad exposure to many different areas of law. If this is the case for you,
try to select a school that has a wide variety of course options so that you are not limited
when you do decide which type of law you want to practise.

Consider the cost of tuition for each school and whether or not it is feasible for you to
attend that school. Most schools offer scholarships, grants, and bursaries that can help
ease the financial strain. Awards with monetary compensation may also be available to
you after your first year. Certain schools may have job opportunities for students, which
may also help if you are planning to work while attending law school.

Take a look at the specific opportunities and courses offered at each school. Some schools
offer placement programs, research projects, advocacy competitions, intensive courses,
workshops, and clinical education opportunities that provide unique and invaluable
experiences. Be sure to research the opportunities available to you and what is required
from you to participate.

Remember that only one offer of admission may be accepted at a time. If you decide to
provide a provisional acceptance because you need more time to decide or because you
want to wait to see if you get an offer from another school, you must indicate which other
choices you wish to remain active. If you do not indicate that you wish to be considered
for a specific option, it will be declined. Provisional acceptances will automatically
become firm at the beginning of July, and most schools require you to have made a
decision by this time. In their letters of admission, some schools will indicate whether
they require you to reply by a certain date, as well as if any grants or scholarships are
being offered to you. Take notice that some schools offering early acceptance and
scholarships require you to provide a firm acceptance before the July deadline.

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3 Choosing a Law School

E. Ontario Law Schools

i. Key Highlights and Student Insights

Below are some key highlights and unique characteristics of each of the law schools in
Ontario. Some schools offer insight into their law programs through feedback and
comments from past and present students. Links are provided below for you to access
these comments. Please note that the following is not a complete representation of each
law school, and it is recommended that you visit the website of each school you are
considering in order to gain a full understanding of what each school has to offer.

Osgoode Hall Law School of York University

Osgoode offers a number of joint and combined programs, such as JD/MBA, JD/MES (Master
of Environmental Studies), JD/MA Philosophy, and JD/BCL (Bachelor of Civil Law). It also
offers a broad range of courses covering almost all areas of the law. Osgoode is known for
its clinical and intensive programs, such as the following: the Advanced Business Law
Workshop (Corporate Finance); the Advanced Business Law Workshop (Mergers and
Acquisitions); the Anti-Discrimination Intensive Program; the Business Law Intensive; the
Community and Legal Aid Services Program; the Criminal Law Intensive; the Disability Law
Intensive; the Environmental Justice and Sustainability Clinical Program; the Feminist
Advocacy (Ending Violence Against Women) Clinical Program; the Investor Protection Clinic;
the Immigration and Refugee Law Intensive; the Innocence Project; the Intellectual
Property Law and Technology Intensive Program; the Intensive Program in Aboriginal
Lands, Resources, and Governments; the International and Transnational Law Intensive
Program; the Mediation Intensive Program; the Osgood Business Clinic; the Poverty Law
Intensive at Parkdale Community Legal Services; and the Test Case Litigation Project.

To find out more about each clinical and intensive program, visit https://www.osgoode.
yorku.ca/clinics-intensives/.

Go to https://www.osgoode.yorku.ca/programs/juris-doctor/ and scroll down to “The

Student Experience” to read first-hand accounts written by students at Osgoode Hall Law
School.

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3 Choosing a Law School

Western University Faculty of Law

Western Law is known for its ambition to be the pre-eminent law school in Canada
focusing on business law in the global environment. A unique aspect of Western Law is the
combined JD/MBA and JD/HBA (Honours Business Administration) programs with the Ivey
School of Business, as well as the Western Business Law Clinic. Western Law has also
developed several curricular streams that provide students with informal guidance on the
courses and co-curricular activities that they may wish to pursue in light of their interests.
Students do not formally enroll in the streams; the streams simply provide advice for
navigating a course of study in a specific area of the law. They also provide suggestions on
the types of experiential learning, clinical work, research, or advocacy opportunities that
can enhance students’ understanding and skills. The curricular streams offered include
business law; criminal law; government and public administration; intellectual property,
information and technology; international law; labour, employment, and social justice;
litigation; and universal or specialty practice.

To find out more about the unique opportunities Western has to offer regarding business
law, visit https://law.uwo.ca/future_students/business_law/index.html.

To find out more about the curricular streams, visit https://law.uwo.ca/future_students/

curricular_streams/index.html.

Queen’s University Faculty of Law

The law program at Queen’s University is known for its wide range of clinical opportunities.
The school operates five legal aid clinics focusing on the areas of prison law, family law,
elder law, business law, and poverty law. These clinical opportunities allow students to
gain experience providing legal assistance to low-income residents. Queen’s also offers
mooting programs, two law journals, extracurricular placement opportunities, and a wide
range of internship and externship opportunities. Queen’s Law also offers a number of
combined programs, such as the BComm/JD, MBA/JD, JD combined with a graduate diploma
in business, MA Economics/JD, Master of Industrial Relations/JD, and a Master of Public
Administration/JD. There is also a combined Civil Law/Common Law joint program offered.

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3 Choosing a Law School

To find out more about each of the law clinic opportunities, visit http://queenslawclinics.ca.

To find out more about the law program at Queen’s University, visit https://law.queensu.ca/
about/student-success.

University of Ottawa Faculty of Law

The Common Law program at the University of Ottawa is known for its expertise in law and
technology, health law, environmental law, public law, and international law (including
immigration and refugee law). The law program at uOttawa has a commitment to social
justice and a strong Indigenous Law program. The school also has a top mooting program
and offers a unique experience to students by way of its location in the national capital.
A wide variety of legal clinics also operate in conjunction with the law school, providing
students with a unique hands-on learning experience. The clinics include the University of
Ottawa Community Legal Clinic, the uOttawa-Ecojustice Environmental Law Clinic, the
Samuelson-Glushko Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic, the Refugee Hub,
the Ticket Defence Program, and the Ian G. Scott Courtroom—a fully functional courtroom
where sitting judges hear regular cases. The University of Ottawa also offers a French Juris
Doctor program, as well as a Civil Law program, for those wishing to practise law in Quebec.

To learn more about the Common Law program at the University of Ottawa, visit
https://commonlaw.uottawa.ca/en.

To learn more about the Civil Law program at the University of Ottawa, visit
https://droitcivil.uottawa.ca/en.

University of Windsor Faculty of Law

The law program at the University of Windsor is shaped by a strong focus on access to
justice and transnational law. The University of Windsor offers a unique program allowing
students to earn joint Canadian and American dual JD degrees. It also offers other unique
degree programs, such as a combined MSW/JD, a combined MBA/JD, and a Master of Laws

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3 Choosing a Law School

program. When it comes to upper-year course offerings, students at Windsor Law are
allowed, with permission, to enroll in courses that are taught in other faculties at the
University of Windsor and certain courses that are taught at the law schools at Wayne State
University and the University of Detroit Mercy for credit toward their JD degree. The law
program at the University of Windsor also offers a number of clinical and experiential
learning opportunities where students can gain hands-on legal experience, including two
poverty law clinics and a university-based mediation service.

To learn more about the clinical and experiential learning opportunities offered at
Windsow Law, visit http://www.uwindsor.ca/law/341/clinical-and-experiential-learning.

To learn more about the joint Canadian and American dual JD program, visit
http://www.uwindsor.ca/law/370/canadian-american-dual-jd-program.

University of Toronto Faculty of Law

The law program at the University of Toronto is made up of an exemplary group of

international faculty members. It also offers a variety of clinics and public interest
opportunities, such as Downtown Legal Services, Advocates for Injured Workers, the
Barbara Schlifer Commemorative Clinic, the International Human Rights Clinic, the Health
Equity and Law Clinic, the Constitutional Advocacy Clinic, and Pro Bono Students Canada.
The Faculty of Law also has a number of special programs available to students, including
the Health Law and Policy Group, the International Reproductive and Sexual Health Law
Program, the June Callwood Program in Aboriginal Law, and the Centre for Transnational
Legal Studies. A variety of combined degree programs are also offered, such as JD/MBA,
JD/MA Criminology, JD/MA Economics, JD/PhD Economics, JD/MA English, JD/MA European
and Russian Affairs, JD/MGA (Global Affairs), JD/MI (Information Studies), JD/PhD Philosophy,
JD/PhD Political Science, JD/MPP (Public Policy), and JD/MSW (Social Work).

To learn more about the clinics and special programs offered at the University of Toronto
Faculty of Law, visit https://www.law.utoronto.ca/centres-programs.

To hear from now-graduated students of the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, visit
https://www.law.utoronto.ca/admissions/why-u-t.

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3 Choosing a Law School

Bora Laskin Faculty of Law of Lakehead University

The Faculty of Law at Lakehead University is still somewhat new; however, this program
offers students a unique hands-on learning experience that makes them eligible for
licensing directly after graduating. Students at Lakehead partake in the Integrated Practice
Curriculum, which requires them to complete a four-month placement in their third year of
study, similar to that of an articling position. The program at Lakehead has a unique focus
on Aboriginal and Indigenous law, natural resources and environmental law, and sole/
small-town practice. The school also has a Community Legal Services Clinic that students
can participate in, as well as a Pro Bono Students Canada chapter and a law journal.

To find out more about the Integrated Practice Curriculum, visit https://www.lakeheadu.ca/
academics/departments/law/curriculum/ipc.

To find out more about the Faculty of Law at Lakehead through student experiences, visit
https://www.lakeheadu.ca/academics/departments/law/student-profiles.

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4 Surviving
First Year
A. Preparing for First Year
With your course selections made and the first year of law school quickly approaching,
you may experience a great deal of anxiety and anticipation surrounding the unknown.
The important thing to remember is that you’ve made it this far. You successfully wrote the
LSAT, applied to law schools, and got accepted—you will succeed. The following are some
tips and tricks to help you prepare for your first year of law school; however, remember to
take some time to relax and enjoy the summer too. It is important to catch up with friends
and family, celebrate your achievements, travel, and read for pleasure. Don’t worry about
cramming your brain full of legal knowledge or studying ahead what you think you might
need to know—there will be lots of learning to come!

i. Know how YOU learn

You’ve probably heard it before: “There are many different types of learners.” This is one
of the most important things to remember during law school. Unfortunately, many law
school curricula are geared towards auditory learners, with most learning occurring
through lectures in which professors verbally convey content to students. Some professors
provide lecture slides to students, which allows for visual learners to follow along with the
content. Some law schools also provide experiential learning opportunities that allow for
students to see how actual legal practices develop in real time and provide kinesthetic
learners with hands-on learning.

You may find yourself trying to change your approach to studying and learning in an
attempt to adapt to an unfamiliar environment and because you feel you are being closely
compared to your intelligent (and nervous) peers. It is important to remember that the
approach to learning and studying that you have implemented thus far has proven to be
successful—you have made it to law school! Depending on what you studied during your
undergraduate degree, learning the law can feel like learning a second language. A large
amount of new content will be thrown at you at in a short period of time, and your tried-
and-true study method can serve as a solid foundation on which you can tackle new
ideas and concepts. It is vital that you use the approach that works best for you.

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4 Surviving First Year

ii. Orientation Week

As the start date for law school approaches, you will likely be flooded with information
via email/mail regarding Orientation Week. Depending on the law school you attend,
Orientation Week can span from a few days to almost two weeks. You may be eagerly
anticipating or nervously dreading this upcoming series of events; however, finding time to
participate in at least a few events is important, so that you can get a feel for the school
environment and meet your peers. Most of the activities will be social outings aimed at
getting new students to interact with one another outside of a classroom context. These
activities can include scavenger hunts, sporting events, barbeques, karaoke, pub nights,
and more! During this time, you may also have opportunities to mingle with upper-year
students and perhaps even some faculty members, which is a valuable opportunity to
start establishing a network.

iii. Textbooks

For most courses, you will receive your book list on the first day of class or the week
preceding it. While the bookstore may seem like the most convenient option for
purchasing your books, you can likely find better value by ordering your textbooks directly
from the publisher. At Emond, we sell our casebooks online at www.emond.ca for prices
that are equivalent to the used copies sold at school bookstores, and we offer free
shipping within Canada. We also sell digital versions of our casebooks and bundled print
and digital combinations. These options that can be a huge help if you want to travel light
on your way to and from class. If you are considering purchasing digital versions of your
casebooks, be aware that some classes have open-book exams: you may wish to also have
print copies of the books to bring with you into exams.

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4 Surviving First Year

B. Structure of First Year

When it comes to the structure of your first year of law school, you won’t have much
choice over your courses. Depending on the law school you attend, you may have the
option of choosing between a seminar or two, but for the most part, you will be given a
pre-set course schedule. Most law schools divide first year into two semesters, with some
courses running the full year. All schools will provide you with a diverse group of
introductory-level courses to get you acquainted with the different areas of law. No matter
which school you attend, you will have courses focused on the following areas of study
during your first year of law school: criminal law, contract law, tort law, Constitutional law,
legal research and writing, property law, and civil procedure.

Orientation Week usually begins the last week of August, with classes beginning the week
after that. Most law schools offer two Reading Week breaks: one during the beginning of
November and the other in mid-February. First-semester classes end at the beginning of
December, with exams running the second week of December. The second semester
usually begins the first week of January and ends at the start of April, with exams running
through the middle of April. For exact dates, search for the “Academic Calendar” on your
school’s website.

C. Student Services
Your school will have a number of services available to assist you with the transition into
first year and the rest of your law school experience. These services are meant to be
utilized and are there to help you through some of the challenges you will encounter
while pursuing a legal education. You may have found that you did not use such services
during your undergraduate degree; however, law school will be different from any other
educational experience you have had. The services offered by the law school are
specifically crafted to address the needs of students in the Faculty of Law. Below are some
of the most common resources and services that are offered by Student Services at most
law schools in Ontario.

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4 Surviving First Year

i. Financial Assistance

As previously mentioned, it is important to consider the financial assistance and resources

that are available to you when choosing a law school. Pursuing a legal education is not a
cheap endeavour, and the financial burden that accompanies law school can cause students
a great deal of stress. Fortunately, many law schools in Ontario offer bursaries, grants, and
scholarships, as well as assistance with applying for OSAP and other government loan
programs. Most law schools have a dedicated financial department, with advisers that can
meet with students to discuss their options and help them set up payment plans and
professional lines of credit. The majority of law schools will provide you with information
regarding tuition and finances between the time you accept an offer and Orientation
Week. Some schools run seminars and workshops during Orientation Week to assist
students with planning and managing their finances throughout law school.

ii. Mental Health Resources

Other important resources offered by law schools are the student counselling services
and mental health resources. The first year of law school can be a steep transition for
some, and everyone will experience stress at some point. It is vital that you talk to
someone—a friend, family member, peer, or school staff member—if you are feeling
overwhelmed. Law school is a unique experience that not everyone can relate to, and
talking to someone who has gone through or is also going through the same experience
can be very beneficial. Most law schools have a Student Peer Network or a Student
Success and Wellness Group that provides services, workshops, social events, and
professional counselling services to students throughout the year. You will likely learn
about the different services available to you during Orientation Week, so make note of the
services that are available and where to go should you need them.

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4 Surviving First Year

iii. Mentoring

Another useful service often offered by law schools is mentoring. Most law schools provide
mentoring opportunities in which first-year students are paired with an upper-year law
student. Mentoring is a great way to ease the transition into first year and can help to
provide insight on what classes will look like, the teaching styles of professors, study tips,
and emotional support. Some schools also offer opportunities for students to sign up to be
paired with mentors from the legal field, who are past alumni of the school. This mentoring
provides students with guidance on how to plan for their future careers and can lead to
opportunities for students to shadow lawyers and gain first-hand insight into the legal
profession. You will likely learn about the mentoring opportunities available to you during
Orientation Week, but if not, be sure to contact Student Services at your school to inquire.

D. Getting Involved
i. Extracurriculars and Clubs

During Orientation Week, you will learn about the many extracurricular opportunities
available to you while attending law school. Getting involved at law school is important in
order to network, gain experience, and get exposure to real-life legal practices that might
not be provided during your formal studies in the classroom. Be sure to join at least one
club, clinic, or initiative during your first year of study. (You can always get more involved
during your upper years.)

You can learn about the different opportunities available to you by visiting Student
Services or talking to upper-year mentors. Additionally, many law schools run club fairs
during Orientation Week (or the first few weeks of school), which allow students the
opportunity to talk to representatives from the different clinics and clubs. While it is
important to get involved, be careful not to not spread yourself too thin or put undue
pressure on yourself. Continue to maintain relationships outside of school and spend time
on the hobbies you enjoy, and develop a healthy sense of balance.

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4 Surviving First Year

ii. Thinking Ahead

Although some strategizing might be required as to which clubs and clinics you should
join, be sure that you are genuinely interested in the extracurriculars that you take on—
don’t sign up solely for the sake of padding your resume. Clubs and extracurriculars can
be a great way to gain experience working in different areas of the law and can help you
determine which area of law you might want to pursue. Clinics provide hands-on learning
experiences not available through lecture courses and can perfectly compliment what you
are learning in the classroom. No future employer is going to fault you for joining a specific
club or clinic, even if you end up realizing it is not an area you wish to pursue in the
future. Many of the extracurricular activities offered during law school provide students
with transferable skills that can be applied to almost any job that you pursue using your
legal degree. You will come to realize that your time is precious during law school, so be
choosy, do your research, and sign up for clubs and clinics that you are truly interested in.
If you know which area of the law you are interested in pursuing, talk to your mentor,
upper-year students, or alumni to gain insight into what extracurriculars might best
prepare you for scoring your dream job.

E. Lectures and Exams

i. Structure

One of the biggest adjustments associated with law school is the exams. You are likely
most accustomed to the forms of assessment used during your undergraduate degree,
which probably involved a variety of different methods—exams, papers, seminar
participation, presentations, and so on. When it comes to law school, there are fewer
opportunities for assessment, and your entire grade for a course may rely on a single
exam or paper. However, some schools do have courses that incorporate an assignment as
well as an exam. Exams tend to be the preferred form of assessment and provide
instructors with the most direct way to compare students in order to mark on a curve.
After all students complete an exam, the marks are collected and compared to one
another so that they can be adjusted if necessary. This is to ensure that grades fall along a
predetermined distribution.

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4 Surviving First Year

Law school exams will either be open-book or closed-book. A closed-book exam is the
more traditional approach that you are likely used to from your undergraduate degree.
With a closed-book exam, you are expected to know the content inside and out and are
not allowed to bring any materials into the testing area with you. Because law school is
content-heavy and involves a lot of reading and writing, open-book exams are fairly
common. Most courses will end with a final open-book exam, where students are allowed
to bring in textbooks and notes to help them answer questions. Although this may sound
great, you still need to be sure you know the content and have a deep understanding of
what was taught, as you will find that time flies quickly during the exam and you will not
have time to look up the answer to every question. The more organized and succinct your
lecture and reading notes are, the more helpful they will be when it comes to the exam.

When you get to law school, you will hear about something called a “summary” almost
immediately. Summaries will be discussed in more detail below, but they refer to a
concise compilation of the key concepts and ideas taught throughout the course, as well
as references and excerpts from supporting texts and materials. Summaries are many
students’ best friends when it comes to open-book exams.

Law school exams are typically administered in a lecture hall and written on your own
computer using exam software. Most law schools do offer a separate computer lab
environment for students who do not have their own laptops. Students also have the
option to handwrite their exams. As many students opt to bring their own laptop for the
exam, Student Services will send out emails prior to the exam period that instruct
students on how to set up the exam software. Students are required to download the
software onto their laptops, and they will be provided with access codes at the time of the
exam, which will be taken in a lecture hall. Depending on the software used by your law
school, you probably won’t be able to access any other programs while using the exam
software. For this reason, any materials that you plan to take into the exam should be in
hard-copy format. Be sure to check your computer before exam time to ensure that it is
working properly and that all software is up to date.

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4 Surviving First Year

ii. Tips and Strategies

When it comes to preparing for exams, one of the most important things is to stay
organized. You will find that the content taught in first year is dense and complex, and it
may seem overwhelming when you begin studying for exams. The best way to approach
exam preparation is to begin early: start building summaries and taking notes in an
organized fashion from day one. Additionally, stay on top of your readings and be sure to
compile or cross-reference your reading notes with your lecture notes to ensure that you
have a comprehensive batch of material come exam time.

Whenever your professor makes mention of the exam or a tip or key point, be sure to write
it down and highlight it for review later. Some law schools and student groups provide
access to databases in which students can locate and download previous student
summaries and practice exams for courses taught by specific professors. Using your own
notes and building your own summaries will help you learn the material and digest the
content. However, cross-checking your notes with those of another student—either past or
present—will help to ensure that you are not missing any key points or concepts.

Taking a practice exam is also a good idea and can give you a feel for the way that a
certain professor structures their exams and questions. It is also a good idea to conduct a
mock exam for yourself using your summary (if the exam is open-book) so that you can
assess how useful your summary is, whether it needs to be tweaked, and whether it is
missing anything. Taking a practice exam will also prepare you for the timing of the exam
so you can learn to pace yourself appropriately when answering questions. Most schools
will have a database that provides students with practice exams that have been posted
from previous years. Alternatively, some professors are open to providing students with
past exams as examples. Be sure to inquire with your professor, Student Services, or a
mentor as to whether practice exams are available.

iii. Summaries

As soon as you begin law school, you will become familiar with the term “summary.” Chances
are that everyone around you will be equally confused as to what these are and how to
acquire them. A summary is a study tool that most law students create for each course in

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4 Surviving First Year

order to assist them on the exam (especially open-book exams). For your reference, some
examples of summaries can be found on the Emond website at www.emond.ca. A summary
is typically created by compiling both lecture notes and reading materials together into a
single document that includes a table of contents. Students may insert charts, tables, and
definition sections into the summary to help convey key concepts and material in a more
concise, easy-to-read format. A summary helps you organize your notes for the exam and
allows you to easily access any key concept, chapter, or specific section quickly, which is
especially helpful since you will not have a lot of time during the exam to go hunting
through your materials. Students will often print and bind their summaries so that they
can take the hard copy into the exam and reference it while answering questions.
Depending on the structure and duration of the particular course, some students also find
it beneficial to create a “short summary”—basically a higher-level version of a regular
summary, with only key concepts and page references cited, or very short sentences
pulled from reading materials. Depending on how well you know the material, these more
condensed summaries may provide a faster, more efficient way for you to locate answers
within your materials during the exam.

iv. Case Briefs and Mind Maps

In addition to summaries, other study strategies can be used to assist you come exam
time. One of the first things you will likely learn in your legal research and writing class is
how to create a “case brief.” Case briefs are a great way to organize and summarize any
case law that you are required to read for your courses. If you get into the habit of creating
briefs as you read through cases, you will have an easily accessible outline of the
important parts of each case for future reference. Case briefs can then be built into your
summaries or accompany them when it comes to preparing for exams. Case briefs will
contain a summary of the key facts of the case, the outcome, any legal rule/law that
emerged as a result of the case, the reasoning for the outcome, and the analysis of the law
that the judge went through in order to reach the outcome. You can view examples of case
briefs on the Emond website at www.emond.ca.

Creating “mind maps” is another great way for you to organize key concepts and content in
a comprehensive and easily accessible format. Mind maps are great tools for visual
learners, as they allow a student to see how concepts interact and fit together. When it

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4 Surviving First Year

comes to legal content, mind maps are especially useful for organizing procedural
content, such as criminal procedure or civil procedure. Mind maps also allow you to
demonstrate the connection between concepts or the procedural routes taken to achieve
a specific outcome. This is an example of a mind map:

MIND MAP
BAIL CHART
Offence Occurs (YCJA, CC, CDSA, etc.)

SUMMONS REQUEST APPEARANCE NOTICE (Form 9) PROMISE TO APPEAR (Form 10)

(Before J.P.) (Arresting Officer) (Officer in Charge)
If you know identity of person If you have arrested the person and do Person under arrest at the
and you are not placing any not feel the need for conditions, you can station. If there are no release
conditions on the individual release them at the scene. You do not issues then person can be
take them to the station. (s. 496, 553 for released from station.
offences you are allowed to release for)
AND
UNDERTAKING BEFORE AN
J.P. ISSUES SUMMONS OFFICER IN CHARGE (Form 11.1)
Conditions that individual must
J.P. CONFIRMS APPEARANCE NOTICE follow upon release

J.P. CONFIRMS
P.T.A.
COURT APPEARANCE OUT OF CUSTODY

WARRANT REQUEST ARREST WITHOUT WARRANT

(Before J.P.) Bail Process (Before a JP or Judge)
Can either lead to
You know the identity but • Person who was arrested with or without a warrant Appearance Notice, P.T.A.,
you do not know the location and was not released and held in custody—has to Summons Request, or you
of the person. When person attend for bail hearing. There are some times when keep the individual in
is found, he is arrested and it is a crown onus (crown proves why you should custody and hold for bail
then normally released on a stay in custody) OR reverse onus (accused has to (i.e., Murder)
P.T.A. or held for Bail. show why they should be released)
• Crown may also consent to release—if they feel that
the person just needs a surety or certain bail
conditions placed on them
• If person is not released then a detention order is
J.P. ISSUES WARRANT placed on them (they are held in custody until
completion of charges—sentencing or withdrawal of
charges)
• W.A.S.H. Court—Weekend and Statutory Holiday
court for bail on weekends and holidays
• CC says that within 24 hours after arrest you are to
be brought before a court for bail

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4 Surviving First Year

F. Upper-Year Course Selection

While your first year of law school is fairly general and is often scheduled for you, your
second and third years of law school will offer opportunities to pick courses and build
your own schedule. Although choosing your upper-year courses is not something you need
to be concerned about during your first year, you should pay attention to which courses
you enjoy, and the ones you do not enjoy. Once you have an idea of the areas of law that
interest you, you can explore the courses your school offers in those areas. You should
aim to take at least a few courses that you have a genuine interest in, even if you don’t
expect to practise in those specific areas.

We would advise against taking courses simply because they are covered on the bar exam,
unless you think they are going to be especially difficult for you to learn and comprise a
large part of the exam (e.g., civil procedure, real estate, criminal procedure, and family
law). There are plenty of resources available to help you learn the subject matter for the
bar exams, including CanBarPrep’s substantive preparation course, which offers a crash
course in the exam subject matter without requiring the commitment of a full term at law
school.

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5 On-Campus
Interviews
A. General Comments
Shortly after starting your first year of law school, you will hear about something called
“OCIs” or “on-campus interviews.” The OCI process provides students with an opportunity
to apply to jobs in the legal field and involves learning interviewing skills and how to tailor
your resume for these jobs. For many students, just the thought of OCIs causes a great
deal of stress and anxiety. However, it is important to relax and remind yourself that even
if you do not secure a summer job working at a law firm after your first or second year,
your career is not doomed. There are actually very few job opportunities available to
first-year law students, and it is normal for the majority of law students to enter second
year without having worked at a law firm or in the legal field. If you are one of the lucky
ones who lands a job working at a law firm, or for the government, or doing legal research,
you will be well on your way to building your resume and gaining valuable experience. If
not, there are plenty of other summer job opportunities available to second-year
students, which may lead to an articling job in the future. However, it is important to
remember that it is still entirely possible to secure an articling position without having
worked a summer job after second year.

B. Overview of the On-Campus Interview (OCI) Process

i. Structure of the Application Process

The Law Society of Ontario (LSO) website provides valuable information about the OCI
recruitment process for firms/organizations in Toronto. Different timelines and rules
govern the processes in place in different cities (e.g., Toronto, Ottawa, London, etc.)
Toronto has a large and quite extensive recruitment process, as does Ottawa, whereas
other jurisdictions in the Greater Toronto Area may post job opportunities in a less
predictable fashion.

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5 On-Campus Interviews

Visit https://lso.ca/becoming-licensed/lawyer-licensing-process/candidates/finding-a
-placement to learn more about the Toronto summer student recruitment procedures.

If you are seeking job opportunities in smaller jurisdictions, it is important that you
directly contact the firm or organization you are interested in to gain more information
about their summer student recruitment process. By doing this, you will ensure that you
do not miss any important deadlines. Many medium- to large-sized firms have information
on their websites indicating whether or not they take summer students and, if they do,
how to apply.

It is also a good idea to directly reach out to smaller firms and organizations to inquire
about whether or not they take on summer students, as they may not be participating in
the formal recruitment—some firms do not know if they will be in a financial position to
take on a student by the time they are required to confirm their participation in the formal
recruitment process. Most law schools also provide students with access to a list of the
firms and organizations that are participating in the recruitment. As well, Student Services
usually provides students with updates on deadlines and important dates for how/when
to apply to the job postings.

In Toronto, all firms and organizations participating in the formal recruitment will travel to
your school (or a nearby area) to conduct interviews with applicants that have been
selected. If you are notified that you have been selected to interview, you will sign up for a
time slot that has been blocked off for the OCIs taking place at your school. As indicated
on the Law Society website, there are very strict rules in place as to when the firms can
reach out to students and contact them about the process, as well as when firms can
provide offers to those who have interviewed.

For job opportunities in the summer after your first year of law school, applications are
usually due at the end of January or early February. Students will be in a hurry to obtain
their transcripts from their first semester in order to submit their grades with their
application. Interviews will then be conducted over the course of one week in the middle
of February. For job opportunities in the summer after your second year of law school,
applications are usually due at the end of August or early September. Interviews are
conducted over the course of one week at the beginning of November. More information
on important dates and timelines for recruitment are provided below.

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5 On-Campus Interviews

ii. Interviews

Once you have applied and the application period has closed, you may then receive an
invitation to interview with the firm(s) that you applied to. The OCI process is heavily
regulated; therefore, interviews can only be conducted over the course of one week, and
firms are limited to a certain amount of time with each candidate. Most schools have an
online system that allows students to view and accept offers from firms and book their
interview times. If you are fortunate enough to have multiple interviews, remember to be
careful not to overbook yourself or schedule your interviews too close together. If you can,
try to schedule interviews on different days or far apart on the same day so you have time
to decompress and prepare between interviews. Interviews typically last between 15 and
30 minutes and are usually conducted on-campus or at a facility nearby. The firms and
organizations participating in the recruit will have their own room or sectioned-off booth
where they conduct their interviews. Be sure to arrive early—well in advance of your first
interview time—so that you can check in and get a sense of where each firm/organization
is located. Firms that regularly participate are those that work in different areas of law in
private practice, as well as government agencies and organizations.

When preparing for interviews, it is always a good idea to do your research. Once you
know which firm(s) you are going to interview with, be sure to spend some time on their
website to get a feel for the practice and the type of work that they do. If an area of work
is particularly interesting to you, come up with some questions or discussion points that
you can use if the opportunity presents itself during the interview. Be sure to look at the
different associates and partners that work at the firm and read through their biographies
(if available) so that you can get a sense of who might be interviewing you, as well as the
firm culture. Some firms indicate on their website which lawyers are in charge of recruiting
and placing students, and they will likely be the ones to conduct the interviews. You can
also use LinkedIn or other online platforms to see if there is a junior associate or articling
student at the firm. Reach out to them, offer to take them for a coffee, and start
networking. Meeting with someone at the firm who was recently in your shoes can greatly
assist you in preparing for the interview and perhaps get you connected with other
lawyers in the firm/organization.

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5 On-Campus Interviews

You might also be able to do some research online to find out what kinds of questions are
likely to be asked during the interview. Many of the larger firms specializing in private
practice provide an outline of how they structure their interviews and the types of
questions that may be asked. Be sure to ask Student Services if they have any guides or
materials to assist with interview preparation: they may have examples of interview
questions, or they might be able to match you with an upper-year student who has
previously worked or interviewed at the firm. For example, interviews with government
entities like the Crown Attorney’s office are very structured. Schools often have access to
guides that outline the types of questions that have been asked in the past. The Canadian
Legal Career Development Network has created such a guide—it is attached at the end of
this chapter as an example. Some schools also provide students with mock interview
workshops where staff will review your resume and cover letter, ask you questions, and
provide feedback in order to prepare you for your interviews.

iii. Networking and Social Events

During the interview week, some firms might also invite candidates to a social event, meal,
or reception with members of the firm in order to get to know them better. The Law Society
also has formal rules and procedures around when such socializing is allowed to take
place and when the firm(s) and candidates are to cease communication with one another
prior to offers being made. When scheduling your interviews during the interview week, be
sure to consider whether you are going to be invited for a meal or reception, and consider
how much time this might take up in your schedule. Depending on the firms/organizations
that you are invited to interview with, you may have to choose your top picks and turn
down interviews with others. Many consider these social events to be like a second
interview—a sign that the firm is highly interested in you. Therefore, attending the event
or meal can be very important. The interview itself is important, but showing that you are
committed to that particular firm and that you are highly interested in working for them is
also important. Additionally, the social events allow you to interact with other members of
the firm who were not in attendance during the interview. If you reached out to any junior
members of the firm prior to your interview, you may see them again at a reception or
social and can continue to build your network. Remember to treat any social event as a
second interview, and therefore always conduct yourself in a professional manner and
dress appropriately.

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C. Timelines and Important Dates

Below are the timelines and important dates for some of the more popular recruitments
that take place within Ontario. This section is not a representation of all recruitment
processes in Ontario, and it is strongly recommended that if you are applying to firms/
organizations in jurisdictions outside of the major cities listed below, you contact the
firms/organizations directly to inquire about their summer recruitment processes. The
exact dates included below are for the 2019 hiring cycle and may change by a day or two
in future cycle periods.

i. Toronto Recruitment

First-Year Summer Students

• Application Deadline: January 23, 2019

• Call Day for Interviews: February 8, 2019
• Interview Week Begins: February 19, 2019

Second-Year Summer Students

• Application Deadline: August 20, 2018

• Call Day for Interviews: October 26, 2018
• Interview Week Begins: November 5, 2018

ii. Ottawa Recruitment

Many firms and organizations located in Ottawa participate in a formal recruitment

governed by the legal community in Ottawa. Dates and times for applications and
interviews are set by this community and may be subject to change each year. These
dates are usually not far off from the Toronto recruitment deadlines. For information on
important dates and timelines, visit the website of the firm/organization that you are
interested in, or be sure to visit the Student Services or Career Development office at your
school to inquire about the Ottawa recruitment process.

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D. Resumes and Cover Letters

One of the most important parts of the OCI process is your resume and cover letter. At this
point in your life, you have likely applied for jobs and have a version of your resume to
work from. There is no single right way to construct or organize your resume; however, you
will want to ensure that the information on it is updated to reflect your most recent
accomplishments in law school, as well as your involvement in any clubs or extracurriculars
that you have joined since beginning your first year. The Career Development and Student
Services offices at your school will likely offer resume-building workshops and mock
interview sessions prior to the start of the OCI process; these can be of great assistance in
helping you prepare for applying and interviewing. Many of the law firm/organization
websites offer tips on how to prepare for OCIs and on what is required in your application.
Some websites also have examples of resumes and cover letters from previous successful
applicants, so you can get an idea of how you should structure your application materials.
For example, Fasken has a section on its website that provides guides for prospective
students regarding cover letters, resumes, and interviews.

Visit https://www.fasken.com/en/careers/lawstudentshub/toronto for more information

on how to structure your cover letter and resume.

Your cover letter should be no longer than a single page, and your resume should be
limited to two pages. Be succinct and concise when writing your cover letter, and only
include the most recent and relevant experiences on your resume if spacing is an issue.
On the next page is an example of how you could structure and organize your resume. You
can download an editable Word version here:

w Download Sample Resume Word File: emond.ca/lawstudentresume

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5 On-Campus Interviews

Jane Doe
55 Law St., Toronto Ontario A1B 2C3
janedoe@email.com
555-555-5555

EDUCATION

Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, Toronto, Ontario

Juris Doctor Candidate 2014 2011-Present
• Mediation Intensive Clinical Program
o Accepted into a select program where participants receive training to become a certified
community mediator.
o Participants conduct community and Small Claims Court mediations, provide education on
conflict prevention and resolution, design and carry out a community engagement project.
• Monash University at the Prato Centre, Italy June 2012
o International Comparative Family Law
• Frozen Osgoode Open Moot February 2012
• Fraser Milner Casgrain Negotiation Competition June 2012

Trinity College at the University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario

Honours Bachelor of Arts, double major in English and Women & Gender Studies

ACADEMIC AWARDS

College Scholar, Trinity College 2011

Dean’s List, Trinity College 2007-2011
L.C.A. Hodgins Scholarship for Excellence in English, Trinity College 2008-2009
The Helen Gregory MacGill Prize in Women’s Studies, University of Toronto 2007-2008
Entrance Scholarship, Trinity College 2007

EMPLOYMENT

Parks, Forestry & Recreation, City of Mississauga

Assistant Supervisor of Aquatics (part-time) 2009-2012
• Effectively led a team of ten staff, performed timely evaluation, managed employee relations, directed
department communication and meeting facilitation, executed facility scheduling.
• Developed creative training programs to provide orientation to new and experienced staff, conveyed
policies and procedures, and enhance staff competence.
• Collaborated with community service providers on cross-departmental projects to deliver robust
programming for different age groups and participant needs.
• Demonstrated resilience and calm in crisis situations and provided maximum safety for participants
resulting in no serious incidents.
Lifeguard and Swimming Instructor 2005-2009
• Instructed various programming to over 150 children and adults per year, adapted existing programs to
integrate children with special needs, managed communications with parents and guardians.
• Successfully communicated and worked cohesively with colleagues to execute emergency response
strategies and provide first aid treatment.

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5 On-Campus Interviews

Lululemon Athletica, Toronto, Ontario

Associate 2008-2010
• Prepared daily cash and sales reconciliation, conducted receiving and inventory, and managed customer
returns.
• Effectively resolved problems and provided personal product recommendations for special customer
needs.

COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTEERISM

Osgoode Women’s Network, Osgoode Hall Law School 2012-Present

Meeting Chair & Secretary
• Part of an executive that plan events to connect female students with lawyers.
• Establish and communicated priorities and the agenda, develop action plans, take and distribute minutes to
general membership.

Osgoode Orientation, Osgoode Hall Law School September 2012

• Support and accompany incoming student to their first week at law school through evets and
communication sessions.

Community and Legal Aid Services Programme, Osgoode Hall Law School 2011-Present
Caseworker and Intake Volunteer
• Immigration Division caseworker: conduct legal research, retainer meetings, and client interviews in order
to provide legal access to refugees.
• Intake volunteer: perform client screenings and intake interviews, appointment scheduling, data entry, and
respond to telephone and walk-in prospective client inquiries for all services.

Future Possibilities for Kids, Toronto, Ontario 2010-Present

KidCoach
• Act as an assigned coach and mentor to a child from an at-risk neighbourhood assisting them to build self-
esteem, work through challenges, and progress through a curriculum designed to identify their leadership
potential.

Humanities for Humanity, Trinity College, University of Toronto 2010-2011

Mentor
• Acted as a student mentor and discussion facilitator in an evening learning program for youth and adults
who were unable to attend post-secondary educational institutions due to socioeconomic barriers.

SKILLS AND INTERESTS

• Intermediate oral and written French

• Royal Conservatory of Music Grade VIII Piano, Grade III Musical Theory
• Standard First Aid with CPR-C certified, Targeted Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Site
Responder
• Travel (Morocco, Croatia, Italy, Spain, France, Great Britain, East and West coasts of Canada)
• Hot yoga, swimming, running, sailing
• Avid baker

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5 On-Campus Interviews

Interviewing with the

Crown
Interviews with the Crown are more substantive than firm interviews, but what
does that really mean? The information below has been gathered from students
who have participated in these interviews and should help give you a sense of
what the interviews are like and how to prepare for them.

The key to success in a Crown interview is to prepare as much as possible. A

good place to start is to review the branch website. Review your course material
relating to criminal law and evidence – you will be asked substantive questions
about recent case law and evidence – and know why you want to practise
criminal law. It’s also a good idea to skim through the Crown Policy Manual
(which can be found online) and to somewhere drop into your answers that you
at least know the manual exists. The interviews will most likely be standardized
and may seem like an oral exam. Your interviewers will be marking your
interview or at the very least noting your answers. If you haven’t yet taken
Evidence or Criminal Procedure, tell the interviewers up front.

During the interview, make sure to think your answers through and take your
time. If you recall something that you would like to add to a previous answer, ask
your interviewers if you can do so; however, make sure that you are giving
thoughtful, logical answers. Jumping around from question to question will make
you appear disorganized. Your interviewers may give you a written copy of the
questions they will be asking and allow you to take notes as the interview

CLCDN Shared Resource Collection: Interviewing with the Crown ͳ

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5 On-Campus Interviews

progresses. Remember that even though these are fairly standardized

interviews, your interviewers are still looking for “fit.” Not only do you need to
have the knowledge and skills the interviewers are looking for, but interviewers
are also assessing whether you will fit well into the culture of their particular
branch.

The questions you can anticipate can be broken down in to three main
categories:

(1) Experience questions

(2) Questions that focus on criminal law and the specific office (particularly
important)
(3) Hypothetical questions

Some of the questions you may be asked are below:

General Questions

▪ Why do you want to go into criminal law?

▪ Why do you want to work for the Crown? Why the Crown in particular?
▪ What is your most significant experience in criminal law this far?
▪ Where do you see yourself in 3-5 years?
▪ Tell us something interesting about yourself.
▪ Would you ever consider working for the defence? Have you applied to
any defence firms?
▪ Tell us what you did to prepare for this interview. (This is an opportunity
to mention the Crown Policy Manual.)

Substantive Questions

▪ What is the role of the Crown?

▪ What is the role of the Crown in reference to the victim?
▪ What is the role of the Crown in reference to the police?
▪ What is the relationship of the Crown with the defence?
▪ Do you know anything about our office?
▪ What are the daily tasks of a Crown attorney? What are the tasks of this
office?
▪ What steps does the Crown have to take before getting to trial?
▪ What is the current status on the law and how will it affect future decisions
in areas of exclusion of evidence and right to counsel?
▪ Name three types of evidence that can be used at a trial.

CLCDN Shared Resource Collection: Interviewing with the Crown ʹ

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5 On-Campus Interviews

▪ Have you come across a legal issue during your studies that you would
like to discuss?
▪ Tell us about a recent SCC decision you agreed with/disagreed with/found
interesting
▪ What provisions of the Charter are relevant to Criminal law?
▪ If you could amend one of those Criminal-themed Charter provisions (add
something, remove something) what would it be?
▪ What is hearsay, what is the general rule about its admissibility, and what
are three exceptions to the rule?
▪ List some SCC cases that relate to the hearsay rule and exceptions.
▪ When admitting into evidence a statement that a witness made to the
police, what needs to be proved, who has the burden to prove it, and to
what standard must it be proven?
▪ What is the test for dealing with expert witnesses and how does it work?
▪ When would a conditional sentence be appropriate for an offender?
▪ What is the rule upon encountering an inconsistent statement? What is
the rule that applies when you want to admit a prior inconsistent statement
from your witness?
▪ What is the rule about similar fact evidence?
▪ Name three characteristics/qualities that a Crown attorney needs and
place them in order of importance.
▪ What legislation should a Crown attorney know?
▪ What articles of the Charter apply to criminal law? Choose three
examples and explain how they are applied.
▪ What is a preliminary hearing? What is the standard used in these
hearings?
▪ How can witnesses refresh their memory?
▪ Fact pattern: A famous celebrity is in town. A witness saw a female hotel
worker leaving the celebrity's room looking anxious and worried. The
celebrity was later charged with sexual assault, but the witness cannot
make it to the appointed trial time. What do you do?
▪ You are the Crown Attorney in a Highway Traffic Act matter at the
Provincial Offences Act court. An officer approaches you before the trial
and informs you that the defendant in your case is an informant in a very
serious criminal trial. The witness has informed the police the defendant
would not cooperate when charged with a Highway Traffic Act offence.
What do you do?
▪ You are given a fact pattern dealing with unconstitutionally-obtained
evidence and asked your opinion as to whether you would admit it, and
whether it was likely to be admitted by the court.

CLCDN Shared Resource Collection: Interviewing with the Crown ͵

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5 On-Campus Interviews

▪ Rules of sentencing in a fact pattern: you are given a fact pattern and
asked what sentence you would give the individual in addition to how you
arrived at the sentence.

Hypothetical Questions

▪ What constitutes a “good” document that you would submit to court?

▪ What would you do if the victim in the fact pattern came up to you and told
you that she thought your sentence was a joke and that the accused
deserved a much harsher sentence?
▪ What would you do if your witness agreed to testify about something
important, but during the actual trial, the witness refuses to speak?
▪ Imagine that you are a summer student at the Crown Law Office -
Criminal. You are doing a trial. The judge asks you to speak to an issue of
law that you have no knowledge of. What do you do?
▪ (Crown Law Office – Criminal) – A man is convicted of sexually assaulting
his 5-year old daughter; he’s given a conditional sentence of 9 months.
It’s the Crown’s opinion that he should have been in prison for 5-9 years.
You’re asked by the Crown to appeal. What information do you need to
write an opinion? What factors into a conditional sentence? Would you
appeal? On what grounds can you appeal? Can you appeal simply
because you don’t like the sentence?
▪ (Crown Law Office – Criminal) – You are helping out with unrepresented
inmate appeals. You are going through the file and realize that you think
the inmate should not have been convicted. A) What do you do?
B) You are the Crown - do you go for an appeal?

You should also know:

▪ How the Provincial Crown differs from the Federal Crown.

▪ Who the Attorney General is.
▪ The role of the Crown.
▪ The difference between the Crown Attorney’s Office and the Crown Law
Office – Criminal.
▪ A bit about the Crown Policy Manual – what it is, when would you refer to
it, general principles.

The CLCDN would like to thank the Career and Professional Development Office
at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law (Common Law) for the information
contained in this document.

CLCDN Shared Resource Collection: Interviewing with the Crown Ͷ

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6 The Ontario
Licensing Exams
A. Overview
The Ontario bar exams consist of two open-book licensing exams: the barrister exam and
the solicitor exam. Each exam is 7 hours long and is composed of between 220 and 240
multiple-choice questions, answered on a scantron sheet. The exam questions are
designed to assess a candidate’s competence in a variety of subject areas. The barrister
exam is divided into sections that cover civil procedure, criminal procedure, family law,
and public law, while the solicitor exam covers real estate, estate planning, and business
law. Both exams include ethics and professional responsibility questions scattered
throughout.

Students who have registered to write the Ontario bar exams will receive study materials
from the LSO 6 to 8 weeks before their exams. These materials are approximately 1600
pages in length (including both barrister and solicitor content) and they contain all the
information required to pass the exams. Students must independently read and study this
material to prepare for the exams, and many students prepare additional reference
materials such as indexes and summaries. Students have a total of three attempts to pass
each exam, and must pass both exams to be Called to the Bar in Ontario.

B. Emond Exam Prep

As you begin preparing for the Ontario bar exams, you will likely have many questions
about how to study effectively, what types of reference materials and study aids you’ll
need, and what to expect on exam day. Emond offers a variety of exam preparation
resources at www.emondexamprep.ca, including review courses, practice exams, and
tutoring. We have also published a free resource to help answer your questions and walk
you through the exam preparation process from start to finish. You can access it here:

w Download the Bar Exam Preparation Manual at emond.ca/cbpmanual

Law School Manual - Page 65

Last but not least,
GOOD LUCK!
V
www.emondexamprep.ca
www.emondexamprep.ca | emondexamprep@emond.ca
1-888-837-0815 | 1 Eglinton Ave E, Suite 600, Toronto ON