Parkdale Community Legal Services was established in 1971 as one of the first community-based legal clinics in North America. Law students have been placed with the clinic since its inception. Students accepted into the Intensive Program in Poverty Law will join over 1,700 members of the bar who have participated in this enriching and challenging experience.
Our Academic Director is:
Fay Faraday
ffaraday@osgoode.yorku.ca
Application forms can be accessed here: https://www.osgoode.yorku.ca/clinics-intensives/
Here’s what students have said about the program:
“I loved the hands on experience, and the chance I got to form strong bonds with the clients I had. Being at PCLS challenged me emotionally and intellectually, I was also given the chance to make a difference in someone’s life and challenge a lot of government policy. PCLS was an awesome experience.”
“The work environment is extremely collegial and intimate in its implementation allowing for the development of strong relationships between staff and students.”
“PCLS provides great opportunities to learn a substantive area of law through hands-on experience, while helping people in need.”
“Fantastic atmosphere — supportive and encouraging!”
“I enjoyed the litigation aspects of the work. It was a really hands on experience.”
“I really enjoyed the interactions with clients and learning first hand about the challenges of the lawyer-client relationship.”
“[I enjoyed] the ability to work in a practical environment where legal theory meshes with people’s real problems.”
“I did not find my place at law school until I found PCLS. Staff and students at the clinic shared my interest in using the law to achieve positive social change. I made lifelong friendships there, as well as learned important lessons that continue to influence the lawyer that I am today. I could not recommend the program more highly.”
