Kevin Lambie

Kevin Lambie

The Law and Business specialization at Toronto Metropolitan University (Formerly Ryerson University) provides undergraduates students with an innovative balance of theoretical and practical learning. The program has an extensive list of law courses including employment law, intellectual property law and criminal law to name a few. However, what makes this program remarkable is the opportunity for students to participate in the Law and Business Clinic. The RLBC differentiates itself from the conventional in-class learning experience because it provides students with the unique challenges that arise from participating in attorney-client interactions. For instance, our client was developing a start-up company situated in a fast-paced industry and had numerous ongoing projects. As a result, his legal needs were extremely dynamic, which required our team to analyze the impacts of such changes on-demand, formulate a range of solutions and address them in a prompt manner. It was important that our team limited the client’s expectations considering the nature of the program and its limited time frame. 

Also, students participating in the RLBC can apply the legal knowledge they’ve developed from other courses to serve individuals with diverse demands, thereby developing and enhancing many critical skills. Under the supervision of mentors, Rick Moscone and Ryan Hayes of Fogler, Rubinoff LLP, I was able to refine my conflict resolution, communication and critical thinking skills, which are essential for all professions. Regardless of their busy schedules, Rick and Ryan didn’t hesitate to assist my partner and I, providing timely constructive feedback for each assignment. 

For those contemplating law school, the open discussions between students and guest lecturers, as well as the numerous networking events with successful members of the legal community can be tremendously beneficial. Furthermore, taking into consideration the overwhelming consensus that a substantial number of law school graduates lack the necessary skills required to practice law, there is no question that this experience will help prepare prospective law students in the future. 

Overall, my experience with the RLBC and helping further my client’s dream of starting a business was immensely rewarding. It has profoundly affected the type of person I am and who I want to become. I strongly encourage students, law firms and individuals in the business community to take advantage of this program.