About SLA

Student Legal Assistance (SLA) is an association of law students at the University of Calgary and has been in operation since 1979. With approximately 100 law students volunteers, SLA is able to provide year-round free legal assistance and representation to University of Calgary students and members of the public who are unable to afford legal services.

Our services include:

• Representing qualifying individuals in Provincial Court for criminal, traffic, family and civil matters in Calgary, Banff and surrounding areas.
• Providing legal advice and services at the Calgary Drop In Centre.
  
•  Assisting students with academic appeals.
• Providing summary legal advice.

A nominal disbursement charge applies to non-University of Calgary students.

SLA provides a much- needed community service while giving valuable training and practical experience to law students before they graduate. 

SLA is most fortunate and very appreciative of the generous support received from the legal community. As mentors and advisors, more than 150 volunteer lawyers provide assistance during evening clinics and are available to answer student questions over the telephone.

Additional support is received from the Judiciary and Crown Prosecutors, both of whom have assisted students with their court appearances and referred clients to SLA.

Major funding is provided by the Alberta Law Foundation and the University of Calgary undergraduates through the Students' Union. It would not be possible for SLA to provide these much- needed legal services to the Calgary and area community without this funding!