Statement for Articling Students

Ricketts, Harris LLP is a small full service law firm located in downtown Toronto. Each year the firm hires two articling students

The firm recognizes that articling students are potentially future associates and partners, and student recruitment is given top priority. In selecting articling students, the firm looks for well-rounded individuals with strong academic credentials who show a special interest in, and an aptitude for, the areas of law that the firm practices.

We provide training seminars given by lawyers, clerks and assistants in the firm to assist students in their transition and integration into the firm, Students also receive access to useful precedent material and receive assistance in working with the firm’s specific research tools. The firm does not have a formal rotation but students will receive exposure and experience in all of the firm’s practice areas.
In the Civil Litigation and Family Law component of the firm’s practice areas, students assist in drafting pleadings, affidavits and other court documents. Students also conduct research, attend on motions and examinations, appear on Small Claims Court matters, meet with clients and attend and assist senior lawyers with more complex court proceedings.

In Corporate Commercial, Estates and Real Estate, students participate in drafting an array of commercial and corporate documentation, including security and lease agreements. Students will also assist in the preparation of wills, estate matters and real estate closings.

The firm’s goal is to aid articling students in their transition from students to associates. In doing so, the firm provides continuous feedback through our mentoring programme. We have an open door policy between students, associates and partners.

Students can expect to receive a salary commensurate with other similar sized downtown firms. Benefits include extended health care, life insurance and dental coverage. The firm assists with partial payment of the Bar Admissions Course and gives students three weeks paid vacation.

Articling students can also expect to participate in the firm’s Christmas party and annual firm Summer event. In addition, students are encouraged to attend events that the firm supports sponsored by various professional organizations and clubs, such as the Ontario Bar Association, the Lawyers Club, and LSUC continuing education programmes.