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Certification in Common Law in French (CCLF)

The French Common Law Certification Program (CCLF) is a unique initiative offered by the University of Ottawa’s French Common Law Program in partnership with the University of Calgary, the University of Saskatchewan and legal organizations across Canada. The program enables eligible JD students to receive French common law certification alongside their legal studies.

The program is designed for students with French-language proficiency. It strengthens your legal French skills while deepening your understanding of language rights and access to justice in Canada. You enjoy learning opportunities such as an academic exchange at the University of Ottawa, practical training and mentorship with French-speaking legal professionals.

The program was established in 2016 with support from the Department of Justice Canada.

Why choose this program

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Develop the legal French skills needed to provide legal services in both of Canada's official languages. 

This program combines academic study, experiential learning and professional mentorship to prepare you for bilingual legal practice and careers serving Francophone communities across Canada.

You strengthen your legal writing and advocacy skills in French, take part in the Michel Bastarache Moot Court Competition, complete a for-credit internship in a French-language legal environment and build connections through mentorship with experienced Francophone and Francophile lawyers. These experiences give you a competitive advantage in applying for work in government, the courts, private practice and organizations where bilingual legal expertise is valued.

Program options and structure

The CCLF is offered in collaboration with participating Canadian law schools. You complete the certificate alongside your JD program at your home institution while meeting the University of Ottawa’s certification requirements.

The program includes:

  • Specialized coursework in legal French and language rights
  • An academic exchange at the University of Ottawa
  • Participation in the Michel Bastarache Moot Court Competition
  • A for-credit internship in a French-language legal workplace
  • Professional mentorship with Francophone or Francophile members of the legal community

You’re admitted to the CCLF after first year (1L) of the JD program at your home institution, and complete the following requirements at uOttawa:

Second year (online at uOttawa)

Fall

  • Introduction to French Common Law (3 credits, referred to as “units” at uOttawa)

Winter

  • Internship in French (3 units)
  • Advanced Topics in French Common Law (3 units)

Third year (in person at uOttawa)

Fall

  • Term at the University of Ottawa (15 units), including a Language Rights course

Winter

  • Michel Bastarache Moot Court Competition (3 units)
  • Directed Research in French (3 units)

On successful completion of the program requirements, you receive University of Ottawa Certification in Common Law in French.

Admission requirements (undergraduate)

The Certification in Common Law in French (CCLF) is available to JD students with French language skills at the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Calgary.

To be eligible, you must:

  • Be enrolled in the JD program at the University of Saskatchewan or University of Calgary.
  • Have sufficient French language skills to complete coursework and participate in French-language legal activities.
  • Meet the application and admission requirements established by your home law school.

You complete three years of JD studies while developing French legal writing and advocacy skills. The program includes an exchange in Ottawa, participation in the Michel Bastarache Moot Court Competition, mentorship with legal professionals and a for-credit French-language internship.

Learn more: 

Why choose uOttawa Common Law

Study at the world’s largest English French bilingual university, located in the heart of the nation's capital. At uOttawa Common Law, we’re educating tomorrow’s leaders in law and society. You’ll benefit from exceptional professors, hands-on learning opportunities, strong connections to government, courts and legal organizations, and a vibrant student community. Gain the knowledge, practical experience and professional network to prepare for diverse careers in law and beyond.

Student experience

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uOttawa Law in the heart of Canada’s legal community

Kick off your studies with our Welcome Reception on the lawn of the Supreme Court of Canada during Orientation Week.
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Brian Dickson Law Library

Access one of Canada’s leading bilingual and bijural law libraries.
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Research in the Common Law Section

Learn alongside professors whose research is shaping law and public policy in Canada and around the world.

Contact us

Common Law admissions

Fauteux Hall
57 Louis Pasteur Private
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 6N5

Email: [email protected]

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