During National Pro Bono Week (9th - 13th November), the Oxford Law Faculty is excited to launch Oxford Legal Assistance (OLA). OLA is the first pro bono programme at Oxford open to both undergraduates and postgraduates, as well as the University's first programme involving practical legal work for the benefit of clients in Oxford. Students will be trained to take the first draft of instructions for fixed-fee legal aid cases, allowing solicitors to spend more time on aspects of the case which require expertise in the area of law concerned. OLA will build bridges, not only between the University and the local area, but also within the faculty itself; its executive committee sees faculty members, solicitors and students working closely alongside one another. The programme provides an exciting and rewarding opportunity for all involved and practically demonstrates the faculty's commitment to helping the local community.

As a pilot scheme, OLA is having to start small and is only able to train 16 student assistants. However, the interest expressed by students in Oxford has been overwhelming: over 50 interested applicants were unable to take part this year. Therefore, the faculty is enthusiastic about the possibility of the programme expanding in the future.

Link(s)

Oxford Legal Assistance

published Monday 9 November 2009