Securing an articling position poses a challenge regardless of the jurisdiction in which you aim to qualify. It is crucial to check with the Law Society of your jurisdiction for any specific rules and application deadlines for articles. Below are some frequently asked questions I have encountered over the years, along with their answers:
Q: Do I need to complete the NCA process and obtain my Certificate of Qualification before applying for articles?
A: No, not necessarily, especially if you are targeting positions with large firms. Many firms initiate their articleship recruitment process more than a year in advance, often hiring their summer students. As an NCA student, you might have limited opportunities to apply for such positions. However, it is not impossible, as several NCA students have successfully secured articling positions with large firms. Nevertheless, it's essential to be realistic about your expectations to avoid wasting time applying to firms where your chances of being hired are minimal. For instance, if you graduated with a 2:2 or even a mid-2:1, it might not be worth applying to Bay Street firms.
Q: Can I apply for an abridgement to shorten my articling term?
A: This depends on the specific law society to which you are applying. For instance, LSBC might not have an abridgement program, while LSUC does. If you apply for an abridgement, you won't receive a 1:1 credit for your work experience; instead, it will likely be at a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1, meaning every three or four months of experience may translate to 1 month of abridgement.
Q: How can I stand out from other candidates to find a job?
A: Networking is the most important recommendation I can offer. However, networking does not merely entail adding as many people as possible on LinkedIn. Instead, focus on building meaningful connections with individuals who share your interests and passions.
Consider joining the Canadian Bar Association (CBA). NCA students can obtain a heavily discounted yearly membership for only $20. As a CBA member, you will receive regular updates on networking events related to specific areas of law. Step out of your comfort zone, meet people in person, and try to find like-minded individuals. Engage in genuine conversations that are not solely about your pursuit of an articling position. Be yourself and aim to make friends.
You can join the CBA by clicking HERE.
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