Haven Toronto - Drop-In Legal Assistance

Project Type: 

• Public Legal Education (presentations, workshops, podcasts, brochures, blogs, etc.)

Fields of Law: Poverty Law, Housing Law, Human Rights Law

Positions Available: 1

This is a joint project in which University of Toronto students may work with students from Lincoln Alexander Law School (TMU).

About Haven Toronto:

A drop-in centre where elder homeless, marginally housed and socially isolated men can feel safe, where they can form and cultivate friendships and become part of a community.

Project Details:

Two student volunteers will provide legal information during the drop-in. The student will gather any legal questions and will spend the following 1-2 weeks researching the question. The lawyer supervisor will approve the accuracy of the information, and then the student will set up a phone call or in-person meeting with the client to deliver legal information only (likely this will occur on a subsequent drop-in session).

In addition, the student can deliver one presentation during the placement, on a legal issue to be chosen with the organization/drop-in clients. The student may produce written materials to be distributed to interested individuals who are unable to attend the sessions.

Staff will be present at the drop-in each week and available to attend all presentations to help the students effectively deliver their presentations to the audience. The lawyer supervisor will be available to hear a mock presentation and must be present during the actual presentation.

Will the student(s) be expected to show up for regular shifts each week, or is the schedule flexible?

Regular scheduled shifts based on volunteer availability but able to be flexible, as needed.

Requirements and Expectations:

Students should understand that the drop-in is a low barrier space; as such, clients may not be sober and may be experiencing mental health difficulties or other challenges during the session. Potential students should think carefully about whether they are able to volunteer in an unpredictable and client-facing environment.

Preference for experience or interest in social justice or human rights field, working with marginalized communities, particularly with people who use drugs. Experience navigating criminal justice system and accessing resources like legal aid and court support, experience with family law and child welfare would also be an asset.