Over the next few months, Legal Aid Alberta expects many applications from new students-at-law seeking to join the LAA roster. By following these tips, you can increase their chances of success in being approved to join the roster.
- Note that students-at-law are only permitted to apply for one area of law and should select the area of law (for their LAA roster applications) based on the firm’s business needs and the applicant’s experience and knowledge.
- Ensure the student has completed some form of approved Indigenous Cultural Competence training.
- While CPLED offers a module on this, if a student is applying at the beginning of articles, that module might not have been completed yet. If this is the case, electing to complete The Path through the Law Society of Alberta will also satisfy this requirement.
- International students: Consider the student’s practical experience, as well as academic knowledge, within the Canadian legal system. This is especially important for students who have obtained their degrees elsewhere. While LAA welcomes and encourages all applicants, we have a duty to ensure that roster members have sufficient knowledge of Canadian statutes, case law, precedents, procedures, and the operation of our court system so they can best serve our vulnerable clientele.
- In some cases, it is recommended that a student-at-Law apply later in their articles, after spending time observing their Principal or other senior firm members in docket court and working on some files of their own or as second-counsel. Remember that an applicant who is not successful in LAA’s rigorous selection process might not be able to re-apply until the completion of their articling terms.
We look forward to meeting new students-at-law and share your excitement as we welcome them to the profession.