Providing free legal assistance to vulnerable communities.
Our Mission
Downtown Legal Services (DLS) is a community legal clinic operated by the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. Since 1977, our staff and students have offered free legal assistance to low-income communities and University of Toronto students on a wide range of legal issues. We believe access to justice is a fundamental right, and we are committed to empowering vulnerable individuals through legal education, advocacy, and representation.
Who We Are
Our team comprises experienced lawyers, law students, and community volunteers who are passionate about social justice and dedicated to providing personalized and accessible legal guidance. We work collaboratively to create a supportive and inclusive environment where clients can feel comfortable and empowered throughout the legal process.
Criminal Law
We offer assistance with criminal charges, including understanding your rights, navigating the court system, and navigating the legal consequences of your case.
Family Law
We provide guidance on family law matters such as custody disputes, child support issues, and drafting legal documents related to separation or divorce.
Refugee & Immigration Law
We can help you navigate the complexities of refugee claims, applying for asylum or other immigration benefits.
Housing Law
We offer support with housing-related issues, including landlord-tenant disputes, eviction threats, and repairs needed in rented accommodation.
University Affairs
For University of Toronto students, we provide guidance on academic offenses, disciplinary procedures, and student-related legal issues.
Additional Services
- Legal education workshops covering various legal topics
- Public legal education initiatives and community outreach programs
Supporting Our Work
DLS relies on the generosity of individuals and organizations to sustain our services. Your financial support allows us to provide vital legal assistance to vulnerable communities. You can contribute to our work through one-time or recurring donations.
Working Towards a Just Society
Through our work, we advocate for access to justice, promote public understanding of legal issues, and empower individuals to navigate legal challenges with confidence. We believe in a just society where everyone has an equal opportunity to access the legal system and achieve justice.
Mixed Reviews for the Clinic
Effective but Biased Representation
The clinic has been praised for its effectiveness in representing clients, particularly scam artist tenants. However, this effectiveness comes at a cost, as the clinic has been accused of being relentless in its pursuit of landlords' money.
Positive Experiences
On the other hand, some clients have had positive experiences with the clinic, praising the professionalism, patience, and thoroughness of the staff. The law students, particularly Emma, have been commended for their dedication to ensuring that clients' voices are heard.
Scare Tactics and Bias
Unfortunately, some clients have reported negative experiences with the clinic, including the use of scare tactics to intimidate and extort money from landlords. The law students have been accused of prioritizing their own gain over the interests of their clients.
Organizational Issues
The clinic has also been criticized for its organizational issues, including long line-ups and a lack of social distancing. Additionally, the receptionist has been accused of making mistakes and failing to apologize or rectify the situation.
Unprofessional Behavior
Some clients have reported unprofessional behavior from the lawyers and staff, including rudeness and a lack of respect for clients.
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