Inter-Generational Network on the Effects of Genocide (INEG) Residential Schools and Genocide
What is it? The Intergenerational Network on the Effects of Genocide has been set up in Secwepemc territory to address the intergenerational effects of genocide, after the uncovering of the unmarked graves of Indigenous children at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School (KIRS). Students will have the privilege and responsibility to hear and record the stories of Kamloops Indian residential school survivors.
This project aims to interview survivors and generational survivors of the Kamloops Residential School system and provide a platform for their stories to be heard, preserved, and shared. Through recorded interviews, the project will document personal experiences, reflections, and histories, which will then be developed into short biographical narratives based on each survivor’s story. The goal of the project is to ensure that these lived experiences are respectfully documented and preserved for educational, historical, and community purposes.
You might like this project if:
You're interested in Indigenous law, and passionate about reconciliation and human rights.
You enjoy interviewing people and are interested in oral history.
You want to develop trauma-informed communication skills.
Number of students: 6
Additional requirements: Preference to Indigenous students, but students of all backgrounds are welcome to apply. The organization envisions building teams consisting of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students so they can mutually support each other.
Interior Women's Centre Legal Navigator: Client Assistance Project
What is it? The Interior Women’s Centre (IWC) supports women and femme-identifying individuals, many of whom are seeking guidance on legal issues. This project will place students in a legal-navigator role in which they will provide legal information and referrals to walk-in clients during scheduled in-person shifts at IWC. Students will spend the fall semester building a library of materials based on IWC's most frequently asked legal questions. They will start hosting the in-person sessions in the Winter.
You might like this project if:
You're passionate about improving access to justice for women.
You enjoy working directly with clients and want hands-on, in-person experience providing legal information (not advice).
You want to develop trauma-informed communication skills.
Number of students: 4 - Upper year students preferred
Additional requirements: Due to the demographic served, preference may be given to women and gender-diverse applicants who can help foster a safe and supportive environment for clients. Strong communication, listening, and interpersonal skills will be an asset.
Kamloops Pride & TRU Gender and Sexual Diversity Student Services 2SLGBTQPIA+ Gender Marker and Name Change Clinic
What is it? BC recently removed the medical requirement for changes to gender designations constituting an important step towards respecting the rights of two-spirit, transgender and gender diverse folks. The right to have identification that matches one’s lived identity, and to have easy access to the legal processes required to align the two, is essential to respecting the dignity of gender-diverse persons. Students will run a Gender and Name Change ID Clinic in collaboration with the TRU Gender and Diversity Team and Kamloops Pride. Students will support clients through the intake process and provide assistance with completing applications and navigating available resources.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and access to justice.
You enjoy working directly with clients and providing in-person, practical support.
You want to contribute to making legal services inclusive.
Number of students: 4 (2 Project co-leads already placed)
Additional requirements: Students must be trans allies; demonstrated commitment to trans ally-ship is an asset. Priority will be given to 2SLGBTQ+ students, particularly transgender students, if they wish to self-identify. Experience with social work or professional interaction with BC Vital Statistics is an asset but not required. Experience in front-line settings or with clinical work is an asset but not required.
South Asian Legal Clinic of BC Client Intake and Assistance
What is it? SALC BC lawyers and legal advocates provide low-barrier and culturally sensitive legal support for low-income South Asian families. The Clinic provides a weekly clinic to support clients on limited summary advice files relating to a variety of legal matters: family law, child protection, wills and estates, tenancy rights, employment rights, discrimination, etc. One upper year student will work with the Legal Advice Clinic to provide client intake assistance and support.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about improving access to justice for South Asian communities.
You enjoy working directly with clients and providing practical support.
You want hands-on experience in a community legal clinic setting.
Number of students: 1 - Upper year only
Additional requirements:
The student must speak Punjabi.
Familiarity with the barriers that constrain South Asian people in BC and recent immigrants from accessing justice is an asset, as is the ability to keep those constraints in mind when supporting clients and the legal team.
The student must be able to write confidently in accessible language.
Experience in a customer service role is an asset.
Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies Advocacy for Federally Sentenced People in Canada
*Positions already filled
What is it? The Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies (CAEFS) works to address the persistent ways in which women and gender-diverse people impacted by criminalization are denied humanity. Through this project, students will work with CAEFS Co-Executive Directors to analyze existing and emergent issues in the federal prisons designated for women and impacting federally sentenced people. The focus will be on supporting CAEFS constitutional challenge work, including assisting in case research, development, and materials.
You might like this project if:
You're aligned with CAEFS vision and statement of purpose
You have strong analytical research skills, written communication, and are motivated to effect systemic change
Number of students: 2 (students have already been selected)
Canadian On Paper Society for Immigrant Physicians Equality (COPSIPE) Public Interest Litigation Research Report
What is it? Despite a physician shortage, government policy limits the number of physicians who can be licensed to practice medicine by controlling access to residency training. 90% of residency position jobs are protected for graduates of Canadian and American medical schools by prohibiting Canadian citizens and permanent residents from applying for these positions. COPSIPE supports litigation which challenges barriers to immigrant physicians. Student volunteers will research and analyze particular areas of law to help support this litigation.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Health Law and Immigration Law.
You enjoy legal research and analyzing complex legal issues.
You want to contribute to litigation that addresses ongoing systemic barriers.
Number of students: 3 to 4
Additional requirements: Because this position involves providing litigation support, students should be strongly committed to the placement, have strong time management skills, and be able to meet deadlines. Students will be expected to produce high-quality work and ensure all deliverables are completed and submitted to the organization in a timely manner.
Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers AI and the Legal System Research Paper - Potential Publication in Silk Threads Journal
What is it? This project will ask TRU PBSC student volunteers to research and draft an article for potential publication in FACL BC’s Silk Threads Journal (Issue 3). The article will explore the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI) in Canada’s legal system, with a focus on whether AI tools can improve access to justice or risk reinforcing existing inequalities. Students will examine the use of AI in legal research, public legal information tools, and court processes, as well as concerns surrounding inaccurate or unsupported legal information. The article will consider the impact of AI on self-represented litigants, newcomers, multilingual communities, and racialized communities, and explore potential safeguards to ensure AI is used to promote equitable access to justice.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about improving access to justice for Asian Canadian communities.
You're interested in technology and curious about how AI is impacting the legal system.
You want to develop your legal writing skills and prepare an article for publication.
Number of students: 3 to 4
Additional requirements: Preference may be given to students who have a demonstrated connection to Asian Canadian communities.
Interior Women's Centre Francophone Legal Supports Advocacy
What is it? The Thompson Okanagan region has the third-largest French-speaking population in British Columbia, and the Government of Canada has set a target of increasing French-speaking immigration outside Quebec by 2029. In response to the growing need for French-language services, the Interior Women’s Centre is developing a policy brief examining gaps in Francophone supports and barriers to accessing services in both official languages.
Students will support this work by preparing a bilingual research memo that compiles and summarizes relevant legal research, literature, and data related to access to French-language services. Students will conduct literature reviews, assist with data compilation, and support the research writing and editing process. The final research memo will provide background information to support the organization’s ongoing advocacy and policy work.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about improving access to justice for French-speaking communities.
You enjoy legal research, writing, and policy based work.
Number of students: 2
Additional requirements: Students must speak and write French fluently.
Justice Education Society Youth & Newcomer Education Project
What is it? This project involves delivering legal education sessions to elementary and high school students, as well as adult learners, including newcomers to Canada. Student volunteers will help develop accessible, age-appropriate legal education materials and presentations on topics relevant to each audience. Volunteers will also draft and review articles for legal information websites, helping to make legal information more accessible and understandable to the public.
You might like this project if:
You're interested in public legal education and community outreach.
You're enjoy interacting with and presenting to youth.
Olthius Kleer Townshend LLP Indigenous Research Project
What is it? This project is in partnership with UVIC and Lincoln Alexander School of Law. This research project explores the international and comparative treatment of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), focusing on how various international bodies and foreign courts interpret and apply the rights enshrined in UNDRIP. It will investigate the treatment of these rights by international organizations, particularly the UN Human Rights Council, and examine how courts in different jurisdictions incorporate and interpret UNDRIP rights within their legal frameworks.
You might like this project if:
You're interested in Indigenous law, and passionate about reconciliation and human rights.
You're interested in international law and interprovincial issues.
You want to work and collaborate with students from other law schools.
Number of students: 1
Additional requirements: Shortlisted candidates for this position will be asked to submit a resume.
Society for Children and youth of BC Advocacy, Research and Support
What is it? The Child and Youth Legal Centre provides summary legal advice and direct legal representation to children and youth in areas including family law, child protection, and human rights. Students will support the Centre’s legal advocates through a variety of tasks based on the organization’s needs and the student’s interests. This may include client intake, supporting the delivery of legal information to children and youth, and contributing to ongoing client files through tasks such as legal research, case briefings, drafting materials, and updating educational resources. Students may also have opportunities to attend court proceedings, participate in public legal education initiatives, engage in staff meetings and learning sessions, and attend an in-person session in Vancouver with support for travel costs from PBSC (pending approval).
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about children's rights and Child Protection Law.
You enjoy legal research and writing, as well as in-person and hands-on tasks.
Number of students: 1 - Upper year preferred
Additional requirements: Completion of Family Law considered an asset.
SOuth Asian Legal Clinic of BC Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia: Tort of Intimate Partner Violence Research Memo
What is it? SALCBC lawyers and legal advocates provide low-barrier and culturally sensitive legal support to low-income South Asian families. This project will involve preparing an internal research memo examining Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia and the recognition of a new tort of intimate partner violence. Students will explore the legal developments arising from this decision through a South Asian community lens, including the concept of coercive control and its potential relevance in different cultural contexts. The research memo will support SALCBC’s legal advocates and help inform their services.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in improving access to justice for South Asian Communities.
You are interested in family law and advocating for gender-based violence.
You enjoy legal research and exploring emerging areas of law.
Number of students: 2
Additional requirements: Familiarity with the barriers that constrain South Asian people in BC and recent immigrants from accessing justice is an asset.
Surrey Women's Centre Sexual Assault Counselling Records REsearch project
What is it? The Jane Doe Legal Clinic, operated by Surrey Women’s Centre, provides survivors of family violence with free access to legal support to help them assert their rights and navigate the legal system. This project will examine the legal framework surrounding the disclosure of counselling records held by sexual assault centres and the protections available to survivors accessing counselling services.
Students will conduct legal and social science research, including reviewing legislation, case law, and academic literature, to explore the balance between an accused person’s right to a fair trial and a survivor’s right to privacy and dignity. The final research paper will summarize current legal protections, identify challenges within the existing framework, and support Surrey Women’s Centre’s ongoing work in advocating for survivor-centred approaches to privacy and access to justice.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about initiatives that address gender-based violence.
You're interested in the legal frameworks surrounding personal privacy.
Thompson-Nicola Conservation Collaborative Protecting Ecological Corridors: Exploring Legal Tools for Conservation in BC
What is it? The Thompson-Nicola Conservation Collaborative (TNCC) works to support regional ecological connectivity in the Thompson watershed, including ecological corridor mapping and collaboration with partners to protect connected landscapes. TNCC also supports a First Nations-led Corridors Working Group, where participating Nations provide direction, priorities, and input related to ecological connectivity.
Students will research the legal and policy tools available in British Columbia to protect ecological corridors. This project will examine how different tools, including land-use policies, conservation mechanisms, and wildlife protection measures, may address challenges such as habitat fragmentation, development pressures, and threats to wildlife movement. Students will prepare a research briefing and tool matrix that summarizes the purpose, strengths, limitations, and potential applications of different tools within regional ecological contexts. You might like this project if:
You are interested in Environmental Law, Property Law, and Municipal Law.
You enjoy legal research and exploring the intersection of law, policy, and conservation.
You are passionate about land-use conservation and supporting biodiversity.
Number of students: 4
Additional requirements: Environmental Law considered an asset.
Big Bear Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Child Forensic Interview Video Project
What is it? Big Bear Child Advocacy Centre (CYAC) provides a safe, child-centred space for children and youth involved in the investigation and justice process following experiences of abuse or maltreatment. By bringing together professionals from law enforcement, child protection, health services, and other community partners, Big Bear CYAC works to reduce trauma and create a more supportive experience for children and families.
Students will create an informative public legal education video to help children, youth, and families understand their rights and what to expect when participating in the investigation and justice process. The video will explain the purpose of forensic interviews, the roles of different professionals involved, the difference between providing a statement and testifying in court, and the supports available to children and youth throughout the process. The video will also introduce the Big Bear CYAC space and explain how its child-centred approach helps make participation in the justice system more comfortable and accessible.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about children's rights, Child Protection Law and Criminal Law.
You are interested or have experience in video production and creating digital resources.
You are curious about forensic interviews and want to learn about their purpose, limitations, and the legal processes involved.
Number of students: 4 (1 Project Lead)
Additional requirements: Experience operating a camera for video production will be an asset, but not required. Training will be provided.
What is it? Many Canadians do not have a Will or other essential estate planning documents, often because they are unaware of their importance or face barriers to accessing legal services. This project aims to improve access to justice by helping seniors better understand estate planning and make informed decisions about their future.
Students will develop and deliver public legal education presentations in partnership with the Centre for Seniors Information (CSI) on the importance of estate planning, including Wills, Powers of Attorney, and related topics. Working alongside a lawyer supervisor, students will present plain-language legal information designed to help seniors understand their options and the importance of planning for the future. Presentations may also include information about community resources that can assist individuals with preparing their estate planning documents.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Wills and Estates.
You enjoy or want to gain experience in public speaking and presenting accessible information.
CFBX 92.5 FM – TRU Campus Radio Aboriginal Title: Cowichan Tribes v. Canada
What is it? CFBX 92.5 FM is Thompson Rivers University's campus and community radio station, providing educational programming on a wide range of topics for listeners throughout the Kamloops region. Students will research, script, and record a 30-minute public legal education radio show on a designated legal topic. The completed program will be broadcast on CFBX and may be replayed to help improve public understanding of legal issues through accessible, plain-language education.
This show's topic will be Aboriginal Title. Students will explain the legal concept of Aboriginal Title through a case summary and analysis of Cowichan Tribes v. Canada, supported by relevant legal scholarship. The radio show will present the current state of the law in a neutral, educational manner.
You might like this project if:
You're interested in Indigenous Law and Constitutional Law.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
You enjoy radio, podcasts and/or audio production.
CFBX 92.5 FM – TRU Campus Radio Bill C-34: Safe Social Media Act
What is it? CFBX 92.5 FM is Thompson Rivers University's campus and community radio station, providing educational programming on a wide range of topics for listeners throughout the Kamloops region. Students will research, script, and record a 30-minute public legal education radio show on a designated legal topic. The completed program will be broadcast on CFBX and may be replayed to help improve public understanding of legal issues through accessible, plain-language education.
This show's topic will be the Safe Social Media Act (Bill C-34). Students will explain the proposed legislation, its objectives, and the potential impact it may have on Canadians. As the Bill is currently before Parliament, students will monitor its progress and ensure the radio show reflects the most up-to-date information available. The radio show will present the proposed legislation and its current status in a neutral, educational manner.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in technology, Privacy Law, and emerging legal issues.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
You enjoy radio, podcasts and/or audio production.
CFBX 92.5 FM – TRU Campus Radio Injury Liability in Sports Law
What is it? CFBX 92.5 FM is Thompson Rivers University's campus and community radio station, providing educational programming on a wide range of topics for listeners throughout the Kamloops region. Students will research, script, and record a 30-minute public legal education radio show on a designated legal topic. The completed program will be broadcast on CFBX and may be replayed to help improve public understanding of legal issues through accessible, plain-language education.
This show's topic will be Injury Liability in Sports Law. Students will explore how legal responsibility for injuries is determined in both professional and non-professional sports settings through an access to justice lens. The radio show will examine the roles and responsibilities of athletes, teams, leagues, coaches, and governing bodies, and consider how legal principles around liability, safety, and accountability apply in different sporting contexts. Students will use legal research and relevant examples to explain how the law addresses sports-related injuries and the challenges individuals may face in seeking accountability or remedies. The radio show will present these issues in a neutral, educational manner.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Sports Law, Tort Law, and improving access to justice in these areas.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
You enjoy radio, podcasts and/or audio production.
Kamloops Immigrant Services Navigating Small Claims Court in BC: A Guide for Newcomers and Immigrants
What is it? Kamloops Immigrant Services (KIS) supports newcomers to British Columbia and Canada by providing information, resources, and opportunities for community learning. For many newcomers, navigating the legal system can be challenging, particularly when they are unfamiliar with Canadian processes and available supports.
Students will create an accessible public legal education video explaining the Small Claims Court process in British Columbia through a newcomer and immigrant lens. Students will conduct legal research on the Small Claims Court process, including relevant legislation, procedures, and available resources, while considering barriers newcomers may face when accessing legal information and support. The final video will use plain language to help newcomers better understand their rights, navigate the court process, and identify available resources.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Immigration Law and improving access to justice for newcomers to Canada.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre REporting sexual violence Interview PRoject
What is it? Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre (KSACC) supports survivors of sexual violence and provides resources to help individuals navigate the impacts of abuse. One of KSACC’s most frequently asked questions relates to what may happen after a report of sexual violence is made and how the criminal justice process may unfold.
Students will create an accessible public legal education guide that provides an overview of the criminal justice process following a report of sexual violence. Students will conduct legal research and interview community professionals involved in different stages of the process, such as police officers, Crown Counsel, victim service workers, and court professionals, to better understand their roles and how they support survivors.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Criminal law and issues related to gender-based violence.
You enjoy interviewing people, asking meaningful questions, and distilling information into accessible, plain language.
You want to better understand the roles of various professionals within the Criminal Justice system.
Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre Online Dating Safety: Technology-facilitated abuse and Harassment
What is it? Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre (KSACC) provides counselling, support, and resources to individuals affected by sexual violence. Technology and online communication play an increasingly significant role in modern relationships. However, digital tools such as dating applications, social media platforms, messaging services, and location-sharing features can also be used to facilitate harassment, stalking, sexual violence, coercive control, and other forms of abuse.
Students will create an accessible public legal education guide and video for KSACC clients that explains technology-facilitated abuse and helps individuals recognize common patterns of harmful online behaviour. Students will research relevant legal concepts, including criminal harassment, threats, distribution of intimate images, privacy concerns, and other legal issues related to technology-facilitated abuse. The final resource will use plain language to explain how digital information can be misused, how concerning online behaviours may cross the line into criminal conduct, and what support and reporting resources may be available.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Criminal law, specifically internet crimes, and issues related to gender-based violence.
You want to explore emerging legal issues involving privacy and online safety.
Kamloops Society for Community Inclusion Employment Rights and Protections: A Guide for Individuals with Disabilities in BC
What is it? The Kamloops Society for Community Inclusion supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their loved ones by providing information, resources, and advocacy to promote empowerment and inclusion. Students will create an accessible public legal education video and brochure explaining the legal rights and protections available to individuals with disabilities in employment in British Columbia. Students will research relevant legislation, case law, and legal concepts, including the BC Human Rights Code, the duty to accommodate, workplace discrimination, and the responsibilities of employees and employers in the accommodation process.
You might like this project if:
You are passionate about promoting inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities.
You are interested in Employment Law and Human Rights.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
Lake Country Health Power of Attorney: Guide for Caregivers
What is it? Lake Country Health (LCH) provides programs and services that support seniors and caregivers in their community, including information and referral services, counselling, support groups, and practical assistance. Through this work, LCH encounters a variety of legal questions related to aging, caregiving, and planning for future needs.
Students will create a practical public legal education guide on Powers of Attorney (POA) for individuals caring for aging loved ones. Students will research relevant legal concepts and develop an accessible resource explaining what a POA is, why it is important, the different types of POA, and considerations caregivers may encounter when supporting their loved ones at the end of life.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Wills and Estates, Health Law, and Elder Law.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
Okanagan Thompson Legal Clinic Guide to the Early Resolution Registry
What is it? The Okanagan Thompson Legal Clinic provides free legal information, advice, and support to individuals who face barriers to accessing legal services. The Early Resolution Registry is a free service for certain family law matters designed to help individuals resolve disputes outside of court and develop plans that prioritize the best interests of children. The process applies to matters under the Family Law Act in certain Provincial Court registry locations and has recently become available in Kamloops. Students will create an accessible public legal education pamphlet explaining the Early Resolution Process and how individuals can navigate this family law service. Students will research relevant legislation, procedures, and available resources to develop a step-by-step overview of the process, including eligibility requirements, what to expect, and where the service is available.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Family Law, arbitration, mediation, and dispute resolution.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
Okanagan Thompson Legal Clinic Using AI as a Self-Represented Litigant
What is it? The Okanagan Thompson Legal Clinic provides free legal information, advice, and support to individuals who face barriers to accessing legal services. Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly common in legal processes, particularly among self-represented litigants using AI tools to assist with legal research, document preparation, and understanding legal information. However, the use of AI in legal settings presents both opportunities and risks that individuals should understand.
Students will create two accessible public legal education pamphlets. The first resource will explain the use of AI by self-represented litigants, including potential benefits, limitations, risks, and important considerations when relying on AI for legal information. The second resource will provide an overview of the Our Family Wizard application, explaining its purpose, features, and how it may be used in family law matters.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Family Law.
You are passionate about advocating for self-represented litigants.
You want to learn about how AI is being used in our legal system.
Surrey Women's Centre Jane Doe Legal Clinic Fact Sheet Project
What is it? The Jane Doe Legal Clinic, operated by Surrey Women’s Centre, provides free legal support to survivors of family violence navigating family law issues. The Clinic works to reduce barriers to accessing justice by providing information and support to individuals experiencing challenging legal circumstances.
Students will create plain-language family law fact sheets for the Jane Doe Legal Clinic in partnership with Meena Dhillon Law Corporation and Surrey Women’s Centre. The resources will cover topics including coercive control and intimate partner violence, child support, spousal support and parenting arrangements, and the division of property during separation or divorce. The final fact sheets will provide accessible legal information to help clients better understand common family law issues and available resources.
You might like this project if:
You are interested in Family Law and issues involving gender based violence.
You want to develop your legal research skills and translate complex legal concepts into plain language.
