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What is Pro Bono Students Canada?

Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC) is a national network of law schools and community organizations that matches law students who want to do pro bono work with public interest and non-governmental organizations, government agencies, tribunals and legal clinics during the academic year and during the summer.

The Faculty of Law at the University of Calgary joined the PBSC network in 1999 and since then the program has continued to expand, gaining a positive reputation within the law school and the wider community for the enthusiasm and dedication of our student volunteers. Over the past decade the program has expanded to include the Family Law Project, where students provide legal information to unrepresented individuals at the Provincial Family Court. In 2011-2012, we plan on expanding our program further by developing a Human Rights Project with the Alberta Human Rights Tribunal and a Small Claims Court Project with Pro Bono Law Alberta and the Calgary Court Centre.  We have recently expanded our educational outreach initiatives working with youth from Siksika First Nation and conducting a mock-trial model with Elementary Students in Calgary.  PBSC Calgary program has developed long term relationships with a wide range of organizations including the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre, Pro Bono Law Alberta, Ecojustice, Centre for Newcomers, and others. Projects have included the development of public legal information presentations, assisting organizations in applying for non-profit status, drafting organizational bylaws, and preparing memos on specific issues of law.

Developing a Pro Bono Ethic

One of the goals of PBSC is to develop a pro bono ethic in the next generation of lawyers beginning in the first year of law school. Pro Bono Publico is a Latin phrase that means "for the public good," although the phrase is more commonly associated with "free of charge."  This historical and common meaning are both embodied in PBSC's mandate.  

Another goal is to provide much-needed services to underrepresented communities across Canada. Since its creation, PBSC has accomplished both of these goals and helped to enrich relationships among law schools, the profession, and disadvantaged communities.

How do Students Benefit from PBSC?

  • Develop practical legal skills working with international, national and community organizations.
  • Apply what you learn in the classroom to contribute to the development of a community or cause.
  • Explore a variety of legal issues and career options.
  • Network with members of legal and public interest communities across Canada.

How do Organizations Benefit from PBSC?

  • Gain access to highly skilled and committed volunteers.
  • Allows for underrepresented and disadvantaged communities to benefit from pro bono legal services.