Community Legal Aid – University of Windsor – Windsor, ON

Access to Justice for All

Community Legal Aid (CLA) is a unique interdisciplinary teaching clinic located on the University of Windsor campus. As a joint project between the Faculty of Law and Legal Aid Ontario, the clinic provides essential legal services to low-income residents of Windsor-Essex County and full-time University of Windsor undergraduate students. The clinic is staffed by dedicated law students who work under the direct supervision of experienced review counsel (licensed lawyers). This model allows students to gain practical legal experience while providing high-quality representation to those who might otherwise be unable to afford a lawyer.

The clinic’s mission is to improve access to justice and empower the community. They handle a specific range of legal matters, focusing on areas that most often affect vulnerable populations. Whether you are a student facing an academic integrity charge or a tenant dealing with an eviction, CLA offers a supportive environment where your voice is heard. The clinic also plays a vital role in community legal education, offering workshops and resources to help people understand their rights.

Areas of Service

Community Legal Aid provides representation and summary advice in several key areas:

• Landlord and Tenant Law: Assisting tenants with maintenance issues, illegal rent increases, and eviction hearings at the Landlord and Tenant Board.
• Criminal Defence: Representing clients charged with summary conviction offences (minor crimes) where there is no likelihood of jail time, such as theft under $5000 or simple assault.
• Provincial Offences: Defending against charges under the Highway Traffic Act (traffic tickets) and the Trespass to Property Act.
• Small Claims Court: Handling civil disputes involving claims up to $35,000, including breach of contract and consumer protection issues.
• University Matters: Defending UWindsor students accused of academic misconduct (plagiarism, cheating) or non-academic behavioural offences.

The clinic also offers Notary Public and Commissioner of Oaths services by appointment for a nominal fee. While they cannot handle serious criminal indictments or family law litigation, they are an invaluable resource for resolving everyday legal problems. If you meet the financial eligibility criteria or are a current undergraduate student, Community Legal Aid is ready to help you navigate the legal system.