The Common law section of the Faculty of law is proud to offer two comprehensive and successful legal mentorship programs: the JurisMentor Program and the Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program.

Our programs view mentorship as a process which allow both mentor and mentee the opportunity for growth and development. 

  • Mentors share their knowledge and expertise with students. They provide guidance to them while mentees enhance both their professional development and understanding of the legal practice.
  • Students move beyond the classroom by connecting with lawyers and members of the legal profession in both formal and informal environments. Through mentorship, they benefit immensely from the insights and experiences of their mentors.

Our programs' goal is to provide a rich and rewarding mentorship experience while being responsive to individual scheduling needs. While we recommend mentors and mentees set aside a minimum two hours a month, we leave the scheduling in the hands of participants.  

Working together, both mentor and mentee develop a tailored mentorship style that meets their needs. Lawyers who have participated in mentorship in the past have described it as an extremely rewarding experience.

JurisMentor Program

As a response to the changing demographic and needs of our students, the Career and Professional Development Centre at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law (Common Law Section) launched the JurisMentor Program, an episodic mentorship program for law students. The program’s predecessor, Legal Links and Bridges, has been one of the most developed mentoring programs in the country since its launch in 1997. The program pairs law students with members of the legal community, providing students with the opportunity to connect with lawyers with similar legal and non-legal interests.

For questions or concerns about the JurisMentor Program, please contact the program coordinator:  

Coordinator, JurisMentor
[email protected]

Learn about the JurisMentor program
Student meeting a Mentor

Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program

This informal mentorship opportunity was spearheaded by Justice David Paciocco. The program pairs students interested in Criminal law with a Justice, a Crown Attorney, or a Defence Lawyer at the 161 Elgin Street Courthouse. In addition to a wonderful networking opportunity, students can gain a better understanding of the practical aspects of these challenging and interesting professions. For more information, please contact the program coordinator.

Coordinator, Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program
[email protected] 

Contact the coordinator
Mentor with students

How to participate in the Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program:

  1. Submit a cover letter and resume expressing your interest in the Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program to [email protected]. Applications should be addressed to Candice Barkin, Program Coordinator.
  2. Complete and submit an application form.
  3. Attend a mandatory training/information session.
    • A group training session for the Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program is held at the beginning of the fall term. This session will be listed under the “Events” tab on The Source. Students who wish to attend should electronically RSVP to the relevant session. 
    • Students unable to attend the pre-scheduled, group training session must attend an alternative training appointment (which can be scheduled through The Source):
      • Click the “Counseling & Calendar” tab on the left-hand side toolbar of The Source.
      • Click “Book an Appointment,” and request a new appointment.
      • Select “Mentorship Programs: Training” from the available appointment types and “Candice  Barkin” from available counsellors. Choose an available time slot and schedule your training appointment with Candice Barkin.