Battlefords Rural Externship Student Gains Hands on Experience
The Rural and Regional Legal Externship offered by the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Law is a unique experiential program delivered in partnership with Legal Aid Saskatchewan (LAS) and Public Prosecutions. While participating in weekly seminars and assignments through the College, students placed with LAS work directly with lawyers and clients on both family and criminal law matters, attend court, and assist with legal office work. Students also have the opportunity to spend two weeks in the Northern Area Office attending circuit courts.
Jennifer Draper is a Rural and Regional Legal Externship Student who joined the LAS Battlefords Area Office for the Winter 2026 term. “I am interested in learning more about the unique challenges associated with access to justice in rural communities within our province,” she explains. “I also hope to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how our justice system operates through an immersive, practical experience.”
Jonathan Bodvarson, Legal Director for the Battlefords Area Office, says there are many advantages to participating in the program. “Students gain an immersive experience in court and in a busy office, allowing them to observe in a practical setting,” he says.
Legal Aid Saskatchewan’s Practice Management Counsel, Joanne Khan, agrees that the experience is beneficial. “It exposes students to how our offices are unique and the special collegiality that exists in smaller rural offices. Students get to know both staff and our community partners, including local Crown prosecutors, court staff, and judges,” she says. “In addition, they work with clients with criminal and family matters that they might not have the opportunity to be involved with in larger urban offices.”
As her mentor, Jonathan says he is looking forward to Jennifer following a file from plea to trial and speaking on her first matter in court. Jennifer looks forward to opportunities that will allow her legal skills and knowledge to grow. “I am motivated by a strong commitment to serve the public interest and support clients through some of their most challenging moments. As such, it is my hope to inform my future practice through these experiences and to become a more effective advocate for prospective clients through the guidance and mentorship I have received at Legal Aid,” she says. “Even in my short time with Legal Aid, I have come to appreciate the profoundly transformative nature of this experience.”
