Mahdi Weinstock LLP: Pro Bono Immigration/Refugee Project (5 positions)

Area of Law: Immigration and Refugee Law 

Mahdi Weinstock LLP is a full-service Immigration and Refugee law practice aimed at providing reliable, tailored and cost-effective legal services. The firm is dedicated to providing law students with real and practical hands on experience in the areas of immigration and refugee law. 

This project involves working on a variety or pro bono migration and refugee files, including sponsorship, humanitarian work, Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), refugee and immigration appeals, express entry, and applications for judicial review. All work produced by the students will be remote and reviewed by the lawyer supervisor. There is also the potential to have students involved with remote client intake through preparing questions and observing client calls. Students who display the interest and ability may have the additional opportunity to observe hearings conducted by staff lawyers. Students who opt to take this opportunity may be able to offer additional assistance by preparing disclosure packages, under supervision.

Time Commitment

Students are expected to complete remote work weekly for the 4-hour shift and provide assistance to staff lawyers with legal research, client communication, and letter drafting under strict supervision. All students are closely supervised during all tasks and are given regular feedback on their performance. Shifts must be scheduled Monday-Thursday as Friday shifts are not available. 

Required Training

In addition to the PBSC mandatory training, students will receive a virtual orientation during their first week on the firm's procedures, the clients they serve, and the type of work they will be doing. 

Number of Students and Prerequisites

  • How many students?
    • 5 students (students will be working with students from Osgoode Hall Law School and Lincoln Alexander School of Law)
  • Can first year law students volunteer?
    • First years can apply but upper year students with a demonstrated interest in immigration and refugee law are preferred. 
  • Should you be bilingual?
    • No, though any additional spoken languages are considered an asset. Arabic will be an asset. 
  • Any other expectations for this project?
    • None but candidates who have taken, or are taking, courses in immigration or refugee law will be given preference. A demonstrated interest in immigration and refugee law is an asset.