'One of the most impactful experiences of my legal education'

A group of USask Law students recently wrapped up their 13-week winter term practicum at CLASSIC (Community Legal Assistance Services for Saskatoon Inner City Inc.).   

CLASSIC provides free legal services, programming and support for people who experience poverty and injustice. It also provides a clinical legal education opportunity for students from the University of Saskatchewan College of Law (USask Law).

The students spent the term working directly with clients under the supervision of CLASSIC’s supervising lawyers.

“They learned first-hand about the access to justice crisis in Saskatoon and deepened their legal skills, knowledge of professional ethics, and substantive knowledge in many areas of law,” said Professor Sarah Buhler, who teaches the academic seminar that accompanies the Clinical Law Program at CLASSIC.

Students were asked to reflect on their experience at CLASSIC and what it brought them. Here are thoughts from four of them.

Megan Roesch

"At the beginning of this school year I was unsure if being a lawyer was the right choice for me, but after being a part of CLASSIC intensive program I knew this was the right career. At CLASSIC I got to experience working with people and the law. I grew to understand myself and the reasons I wanted to be a lawyer in the first place.

“Going into my third year I feel motivated to take on the challenges that come with being a lawyer and going through law school. I would highly recommend this program to people who are struggling to know if being a lawyer is the right choice for them.

“At CLASSIC there is a place for everyone, the staff is kind, open, and welcoming. They facilitate an environment of reflective practices and provide a safety net to learn and develop the skills necessary to become a lawyer.”

Ravleen Saini

"My clinical practicum at CLASSIC was one of the most impactful experiences of my legal education. The meaningful relationships I built with clients and the legal team created an environment where I could grow through hands-on practice. Being encouraged to develop my own solutions, with the guidance of supervising lawyers, greatly boosted my confidence.

“I also gained a deeper, more personal understanding of access to justice issues by working directly with members of the community. I truly hope this program continues, as it offers invaluable experience to law students while also supporting the important work CLASSIC does as a non-profit organization that works tirelessly to secure funding and serve those in need. This experience has shaped how I see the legal profession and will continue to influence my path going forward.”

Josh Delainey

"This past semester at CLASSIC has been the highlight of my legal education. Getting real-life experience in a clinical environment is something that I wish every student had the opportunity to do. My strongest recommendation for anyone going to law school would be to spend a semester at CLASSIC: It'll be four months you'll never forget!"

Fantasia Barnes

"My practicum at CLASSIC has been transformative for my legal education. This experience pushed me to grow not just as a future lawyer, but as a more well-rounded and developed individual.

“CLASSIC is a truly unique opportunity for students; I had the chance to work directly with clients, manage files from start to finish, and see the law in action. It helped me bridge the gap between theory and practice and gave me the confidence to trust my skills in real-world situations.

“The mentorship I received from the dedicated team at CLASSIC was both inspiring and grounding. This practicum gave me the practical tools and human-centered approach that I will carry with me throughout my legal career.”