Project Type: Legal Research and Writing
Fields of Law: Immigration and Refugee Law
Positions Available: 2 students
About Battista Migration Law Group
The Toronto immigration lawyers that make up Battista believe that migration is a fundamental part of human freedom and that migration barriers should exist only when they are necessary. They understand that diverse communities are the groups most often concerned about international mobility, and provide practical, experienced legal advice that will assist in making informed decisions to support their clients’ immigration goals.
Project Details
The immigration landscape in Canada has become increasingly complex and urgent. Most often, diverse communities are the groups that are the most concerned about international mobility. In particular, Battista Migration Law Group champions immigration issues for the LGBTQ+ and HIV communities.
This project involves assisting Battista with their pro bono and/or legal aid-funded cases pertaining to LGBTQ+ refugee claims and court applications. The project involved largely legal research and client intake.
In addition to casework, this project involves producing blog posts for the Battista Migration Law Group website. These posts will cover a range of issues but will mostly pertain to plain-language information on recent changes to immigration and refugee law.
Role of Student Volunteer(s)
Students will conduct legal research and create blog content. Additionally, students will assist with the preparation of refugee applications (including forms). Students will research human rights reports from particular countries around the world and analyze a case’s relevant documentation to create their “theory of a case”. The student’s research and analysis will be submitted to the lawyer supervisor for review, effectively and prominently contributing to the progression of these LGBTQ+ refugee claim cases. Students may also assist with drafting documents for Federal Court applications.
Is A Work Plan Required For This Position?
No.
If yes, the student(s) must reach out to the lawyer supervisor, draft a work plan, and submit it by email to the Program Coordinator and the lawyer supervisor by November 1st at the latest. Please note that workplans are required for all legal research and writing projects.
What Type Of Training Will the Organization Provide?
Note: All first year PBSC volunteers and all volunteers working on research projects must also attend a PBSC/Thomson Reuters legal research strategies workshop.
Students will receive a virtual orientation from the supervisor during their first week at the firm, the types of issues they deal with, and the kind of work that the students will be doing.
How Many Hours Per Week Will the Student Volunteer(s) Be Expected to Volunteer?
3-5 hours per week.
Will The Student(s) Be Expected To Show Up For Regular Shifts Each Week?
Work can be completed remotely, so scheduled shifts are not necessary.
Is Workspace Provided For the Student Volunteer(s)?
Yes, but the students must arrange with the supervising lawyer beforehand to work in person.
Requirements and Expectations
An interest in immigration and refugee law is preferred. Applicants should be queer positive, given the subject matter of the work.