UVic Law

Future lawyers! Today, I’m talking about a very special Canadian law school: the University of Victoria Faculty of Law (UVic Law). Now, full disclosure, I’m a proud alumnus of UVic Law myself, so this post could be a little biased. No, they’re not paying me to say this. But I wouldn’t be here singing its praises if it wasn’t a great school.

Thriving in a Smaller Law School:

With only 130-150 students per year, UVic Law fosters a tight-knit community. This small size translates into ample opportunities to get involved in student organizations and activities. Knowing most of your classmates creates a more collegial atmosphere, making law school a bit less stressful.

If you want a personalized learning environment, UVic Law is a great fit. This school has a low student-to-professor ratio, something I personally loved during my time there. You’ll get to know your instructors by name and benefit from their individual attention. Whether you’re seeking guidance on a complex legal concept or just blowing off steam after a tough week, your professors will be there to support you.

Legal Eagles with a Green Thumb:

Are you passionate about protecting our planet? UVic Law is a recognized leader in environmental law education. The Environmental Law Centre’s clinic, staffed by renowned environmental lawyers, provided an incredible opportunity to work on real-world cases under their supervision. This experience was invaluable in helping me develop my legal skills and gain a deeper understanding of environmental law. Plus, Victoria itself is a hotbed for environmental activism, so you’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals and organizations. This was a huge draw for me, and I know many current students who feel the same way.

Learning by Doing: the UVic Law Centre and the Co-op program

I also had the privilege of doing a full-time clinical term at the UVic Law Centre. The Law Centre provided me with a well-rounded introduction to the legal profession. Under the mentorship of experienced lawyers, I gained valuable litigation experience by representing clients in provincial court and other tribunals. I also had the opportunity to provide pro bono legal aid through summary advice services, which was very rewarding.

If big law isn’t your dream, UVic Law’s optional co-op program is a big plus. It allows you to explore different legal areas and employers before committing to a specific path. You’ll graduate with practical experience under your belt, having completed at least two work terms with diverse organizations like government agencies, public interest groups, small firms, and solo practitioners. Unlike traditional articling, there’s no expectation to stick with either of your co-op placements. The program itself isn’t overrun with applicants, meaning there’s a good chance you’ll land positions that align with your interests.

Affordable

Law school debt can be a major burden, limiting your career options. UVic Law’s comparatively lower tuition fees give you more freedom to pursue your goals, especially if you’re drawn to public interest or poverty law where salaries might be lower.

Student well-being

UVic Law recognizes the pressure law students face. To help manage stress, they’ve implemented measures like pass/fail options for certain assignments and moots, take-home exams for 1Ls (though these can feel like extended writing sessions), and non-publicly posted grades. These initiatives allow you to focus on learning and showcase your abilities without the constant weight of competition.

Beyond reducing stress, UVic Law offers a dedicated counsellor specifically for law students. Additionally, a team of tutors and other support staff provide academic assistance. The careers office is another perk, staffed by experienced lawyers who genuinely understand the legal job market, unlike some generic career services at other institutions.

Indigenous Law

UVic Law is home to the JD/JID, the first law program in the world to combine the study of Indigenous and non-Indigenous laws. Students in that program graduate with two degrees: a JD in Canadian common law and a JID in Indigenous legal orders. UBC also has a strong focus on Indigenous legal studies (see my UBC page). If you’re passionate about Indigenous issues and decolonization, this is a significant advantage. Even in the regular JD, Indigenous law is woven into many first-year courses, and you’ll spend dedicated time learning about these crucial matters.

Island Vibes and a Strong Community:

Forget the hustle and bustle of big city law schools. Victoria offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, perfect for those who value a good work-life balance. The law school itself fosters a close-knit community, with plenty of opportunities to connect with your classmates outside of class. Whether it’s grabbing coffee between lectures or exploring the natural beauty of Vancouver Island together, you’ll find a strong support system at UVic Law.

But is it all sunshine and rainbows?

Alright, being honest here. UVic Law might not be for everyone. If you crave the fast-paced energy of a major legal market or dream of landing a high-paying gig at a Bay Street firm right out of law school, UVic might not be the best fit.

And Victoria’s rental market is brutal. Expect high rents and fierce competition for available units. This is a significant downside, but hopefully, things will improve in the coming years.

However, if you’re more interested in working in environmental law, public interest, or pursuing a career in government, UVic offers a fantastic springboard.

Still on the Fence? Here are some additional perks to consider:

• Victoria’s natural beauty: mountains, ocean, rainforest, all right there. (Perfect for escaping the books and recharging for your next semester.)
• A good arts and culture scene with a focus on local artists and musicians.
• A relatively affordable cost of living compared to… at least Vancouver.
• Strong focus on experiential learning through clinics and externships.

If UVic is on your list, your LSAT score will carry a lot of weight in the decision. If you want help getting there, here’s how I work with students.