At Arvay Finlay we try to ensure that each student is given interesting and meaningful work. In particular, we try to ensure that students are integrally involved in each case, so they can see the importance of their contribution. While our students spend considerable time researching the law and drafting memoranda, we also try to ensure that they obtain useful practical experience; for example, we encourage students to interact directly with clients.

Coop Students

Arvay Finlay is a strong supporter of the Coop programme at the University of Victoria. We generally employ a coop student each term, including summer. Applications for this program are made through the University.

In addition, we accept applications for summer positions. Applications are generally accepted during the Fall for employment during the following summer.

Articled Students

Applications

Arvay Finlay accepts applications for articling positions throughout the year. However, most applications are received in April and May for employment commencing the following May.

Pay and Benefits

Arvay Finlay pays the tuition fees for the Professional Legal Training Course (PLTC) as well as full salary during the course. We try to be flexible in respect of the dates for the PLTC course.

Students receive a salary which is competitive with large Vancouver firms. Students also receive full medical and dental benefits, as well as disability and life insurance coverage.

Articling students are entitled to two weeks holiday during their time at Arvay Finlay.

Office Arrangements

Students generally share an office. Each student has the use of his or her own computer. Each computer has access to QuickLaw, Lexis-Nexus, the Canadian Abridgement, the Internet and e-mail, as well as being linked through a network with the rest of the office.

Office Environment

Arvay Finlay is a small, informal and very friendly firm. We encourage students to participate in all aspects of the life of our firm. During office hours we encourage an open and interactive environment in which students can work directly with, and learn from, both partners and associates. After work, we encourage students to participate in our many, mostly unplanned, social events. However, we are a family-oriented firm, and participation is never obligatory.

Time Demands

We try to ensure that the work students receive can be completed during normal work hours. However, Arvay Finlay is a very busy firm with a strong commitment to excellence. A particular case may require students (and lawyers) to work during the evening or on a weekend.

Feedback

We encourage lawyers at our firm to provide students with meaningful feedback about their work, as part of the learning process. In addition, students are provided with both mid-term and end-of-term assessments.

For more information regarding student employment opportunities at Arvay Finlay, please contact Irene Faulkner or Mark Underhill.