There is a lot to think, nay worry about, as a law student and paying for the pleasure of your legal education is one of them.
Some students are aware of the various awards, bursaries, and the like (including a whole slew from our sister company Canada Law Book). Of those, not all are cash but can be used for other things, like books in the case of CLB. So that’s good news. But there are times when a much more substantial fiscal injection is needed and then it’s time for loans and lines of credit. But luckily the banks and government student aid are out there, it’s just up to you to make sure you’re not getting in too deep. Our “Paying the piper” feature should help with that.
And while you’re trying to figure out how to keep yourself afloat during your studies, there’s always the issue of trying to work out what you’re going to do “after.” Our cover story this issue, “So you want to be a criminal lawyer, eh?” addresses some of the myths and realities of practising in that area. As I recently told a colleague: “Forget everything you’ve seen on TV.” Here’s a dose of reality.
Also, on the decision-making front, our regular “Pros & Cons” feature gives some real-life snapshots from practitioners in different parts of the country and various practice areas into the good and bad side of their professional lives. You can never have too much of this info while preparing for that next step in your career.
As always, I love to hear from students about what’s going on at your law school, in your fledgling legal careers, and anything else about the experience of a legal trainee. Write for us or send us story ideas, they’re always welcome and we’re updating our web site canadianlawyermag.com/4Students every week during the school year and as often as we can during the summer break.
