Three law school graduates who previously worked at Legal Aid Alberta as summer or placement students have returned to complete their articling year. The aspiring lawyers share how practical legal experience, mentorship and exposure to criminal, family and Indigenous justice matters influenced their career paths and deepened their understanding of LAA’s role in supporting access to justice across Alberta.
Their first experiences at Legal Aid Alberta (LAA) were meant to be temporary, but the work, the people and the opportunity to make a difference by protecting access to justice brought them back to LAA.
“The work is never boring, and it has a real impact on people’s lives,” says McKenna Mercier.
McKenna, a University of Alberta graduate, is one of three law school graduates who started their 12-month articling program — one of the last steps needed before practising law in Alberta. Joining her are Tanisha Kumar from University of Calgary and Sarquin Laboucane from University of Victoria.
As articling students, they are taking on greater responsibility while building trust with clients and beginning the legal careers they have worked toward.
“It has been really nice to reconnect with familiar faces,” Sarquin says. “I also didn’t realize how much I had retained from my summer experience until I returned.”
For Tanisha, “the people were a big reason” she wanted to return to LAA, along with the opportunity to gain experience in different areas of law.
Now back at LAA, the trio reflected on their earlier experiences, how their roles have changed and what they hope to learn next as they begin their careers.
What is one experience or highlight from your earlier time at LAA that has stayed with you?
Tanisha
One of the experiences that stayed with me most was learning from the late Sarah Dover, an LAA staff lawyer with the Criminal Trial Group. I had the opportunity to observe a trial with her and often went to her for advice. She encouraged me to trust my judgment and showed me that I could become the kind of advocate I hope to be. Although I only knew her for a short time, she had a lasting impact on the lawyer I hope to become.
Sarquin
One highlight was visiting the court in Siksika Nation with LAA Indigenous Liaison Aaron Sparvier and another summer student. We visited during the court’s monthly potluck, which reflected its strong sense of community.
I also valued observing Edmonton Indigenous Court, where everyone sits together around a large oval table. Proceedings begin with an opening prayer and a smudge led by an Elder, creating a grounded and reflective atmosphere.
McKenna
One of my most memorable experiences was observing a Drug Treatment Court graduation with duty counsel Sonia Haer. A participant shared their story, and the court recognized the progress they had made. Court is not always positive, so it was meaningful to see everyone celebrate their hard work and success.
What made you want to come back for your articling year?
“Clients are treated as people, not simply as files.”
Tanisha
The people were a big reason I wanted to return. I primarily worked with criminal duty counsel during my summer and really enjoyed being part of the team.
Articling at LAA also offers exposure to criminal and family law, along with some immigration matters, so I can gain broad experience without narrowing my focus too early.
Sarquin
I appreciated the hands-on experience and exposure to different courtrooms and areas of law. I was especially interested in specialty courts, including Edmonton Indigenous Court, Drug Treatment Court, and Mental Health Court. Returning gives me more time to learn in those environments and gain broad experience as I begin my legal career.
McKenna
I wanted more exposure to child welfare, which I had only observed briefly during my previous placement.
The lawyers were another reason I returned. They are passionate about advocacy and genuinely want their clients to succeed. Clients are treated as people, not simply as files. I wanted to learn in an environment where people care deeply about their work and those they serve.
What has been the biggest difference between your previous student experience and articling?
Tanisha
The biggest difference is taking on more responsibility, particularly in court. As a summer student, I made some appearances, but there were limits on what I could do. Now that I’m a student-at-law, lawyers can rely on me for more court appearances.
Sarquin
As a summer student, you spend more time observing and may still feel removed from the profession while completing law school. Articling feels like the beginning of the career you’ve worked toward. I feel more prepared and confident taking on responsibilities than I did last summer.
McKenna
I have more responsibility and can take on work I couldn’t do as a law student, including providing advice, drafting court orders and appearing in the Court of King’s Bench.
There is more independence, but experienced lawyers are still available to guide and support me. That allows me to challenge myself while continuing to learn.
What have you learned about the role Legal Aid Alberta plays in Alberta’s justice system?
Tanisha
Working on the criminal side showed me how important LAA is in helping people access legal advice, assistance and representation. Even when someone doesn’t qualify for full representation, duty counsel may still be able to help with matters such as bail.
Sarquin
My experience has shown me how important LAA is for people who may not otherwise have access to legal services or advocates. Duty counsel can provide advice and help people understand unfamiliar court language and processes.
McKenna
LAA lawyers and justice navigators connect clients with resources and help address barriers affecting their legal matters. It can be difficult to address addiction or mental health concerns without stable housing, for example. This broader support helps ensure people have a voice in the justice system.
What would you tell a law student considering a student opportunity with LAA?
Tanisha
For students interested in criminal or family law, LAA is one of the best places to gain hands-on experience. You work directly within the justice system and meet lawyers and other professionals at the courthouse. If you want practical experience in a fast-paced environment, it can be a great fit.
Sarquin
First, apply! Remain open and willing to learn. You aren’t expected to arrive as an expert. Your greatest asset is your willingness to ask questions and take on new experiences.
McKenna
You can observe substantive matters, contribute to files and speak with clients face to face. If you want hands-on experience and enjoy working directly with people, it is a valuable place to learn.
Explore student and articling programs at LAA
Learn more about LAA’s summer student programs and other learning and development opportunities for articling students.