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

Student meeting a Mentor

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]

Criminal Law Courthouse Mentorship Program

Mentor with students

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] 

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 Dana Lin, 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 “Dana Lin” from available counsellors. Choose an available time slot and schedule your training appointment with Dana Lin.

Mentorship Testimonials

"Being a mentee at a local firm was the highlight of 1L. The preconceived notions of the legal system that I had were consistently challenged. There were so many opportunities for both personal and professional growth that I wouldn’t have had otherwise." - Nada Ibrahim, 2L student, English Common Law.

Nada Ibrahim

"Through CLCMP I got direct exposure to the practical side of criminal law even before my 1L summer. The guidance provided by my mentor allowed me to have more accurate expectations and perceptions of the field of criminal law" - Mykhailo Kozhukhar, 2L student, English Common Law.

Mykhailo Kozhukhar

"This is my third year of being a mentor, for four students in all. I have been impressed by each of my mentees, especially their practicality, common sense, curiosity, initiative and general legal ability. I had not expected that and it is to their credit and the Faculty of Law’s. It is a great program and I am happy to be able to share ideas with such talented young lawyers-to-be." – Martin Low, Retired Lawyer

Martin Low

"Most of us have had mentors in our careers both formal and informal. In my view, the very least we as Common Law graduates and lawyers can do is to pass on the gift of mentorship to those who haven't yet entered the legal profession such as U of O law students." – Tom Ullyett, Former Deputy Attorney General, Yukon Department of Justice

Tom Ullyett

"The Juris Mentor program has allowed me to connect with the future of the legal community. I have been very impressed by the students I've met through this program. If you're thinking about becoming a mentor, don't hesitate! It is a rewarding experience." – Kathleen Childs, Legal Counsel, Export Development Canada

Kathleen Childs