—Transforming the future for students and the law
LAWS is Canada’s leading law school youth outreach program, recognized in its field across North America. As a model of collaboration that has a transformative impact on high school students facing personal or systemic barriers to success, LAWS’ activities increase legal knowledge and self-advocacy, promote access to the legal system and develop leadership, civic engagement and a sense of belonging. We’re levelling the playing field in education by helping students find a pathway to success.
— Our Programs
Our hands-on programs bring high school students, educators, law students and legal sector professionals together in and out of the classroom to enrich and expand learning of law and social justice issues. Each program provides students with fundamental tools and opportunities to elevate their futures.
Core Program
Through its Core Program, LAWS works with students at four partner high schools in a three-year cohorted program that is integrated throughout the students’ course curricula and enriched by a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. While students take the same courses as their peers, LAWS infuses its students’ classes with themes of law and justice.
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Newcomer Program
LAWS’ Newcomer Program supports students in ESL classes at seven partner high schools. As many of their home countries have justice systems very different from Canada’s, knowledge about our justice system and its role in our democracy enables newcomer students to understand their rights and responsibilities and facilitates better access to justice. Workshops explain fundamental legal topics and multi-week mock trial programs provide opportunity to role-play as lawyers and judges, applying new learning and language skills.
Alumni Program
As part of the LAWS Alumni Program we stay connected with many LAWS alumni who graduated from our Core Program. We offer ongoing supports including mentorship, tutoring assistance, networking events and guidance on program selection and postgraduate career planning.
— Get involved
Share your knowledge and passion for law and connect with students eager to elevate their futures. From facilitating workshops to mentoring students and providing summer job opportunities, help shape the future of the legal sector in Canada.
“I truly believe that LAWS changed my life and will forever be grateful for it.”
– Jane Pangilinan
