by Kennedy Pope
In the spring of 2024, I graduated from the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia. This past year, I had the opportunity to work as an articling student with the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT).
Prior to articling with the CRT, my past legal experience had focused on social justice issues. This included work in the context of Indigenous issues, disability rights, and housing rights. It was important to me that my articling experience was also focused on access to justice. I felt drawn to the CRT because it offers a fast and affordable way to resolve disputes without having to hire a lawyer. By doing so, it allows people who might not be able to navigate the traditional legal system a chance to resolve their disputes.
Throughout my time at the CRT, I worked on a wide variety of projects. This included legal blog posts, memos, court materials, and presentations. Instead of only focusing on one area of law, the CRT’s different jurisdictions allowed me to learn about small claims, motor vehicle accidents, intimate image claims, and more.
In addition to my regular duties as an articling student, I also gave a presentation to CRT staff regarding Indigenous peoples and the Canadian justice system. This presentation led to great discussions among staff and was a highlight for me during my articling period.
I learned so much during my time at the CRT and I’m thankful for an amazing articling experience!