Congrats, Amy Bjarnason! From Articling Student to Staff Lawyer!

Last year, Amy Bjarnason joined the Legal Aid Saskatchewan Saskatoon City Area Office as an articling student. After recently signing the roll, she has officially stepped into her new role as a Staff Lawyer!

Amy is shaping her legal career by embracing new challenges and opportunities to learn. Since joining LAS, she's found purpose in meaningful client work, mentorship and tackling complex Charter issues. Get to know Amy as she reflects on her journey, career highlights, and what inspires her work every day.

Legal Aid Saskatchewan (LAS): What attracted you to study law? What attracted you to LAS?

Amy Bjarnason (AB): In my Law 12 class in high school (the BC equivalent of "Law 30") I was able to act as defence counsel for our mock trial of R v Lavallee (1990 1 SCR 852). That experience gave me a window into the role of a defence lawyer and I really enjoyed the mental exercise. As a lawyer nepo baby, I felt growing up that I had a front row seat to the life of a lawyer, and criminal law was always something that I was interested in pursuing a career in.

In both my undergraduate studies and in law school, I took courses and did research projects relating to homelessness and the systemic issues that underserved populations face. Legal Aid's commitment to reconciliation, community and service, as well as the mentorship and hands on experience offered, made me feel like LAS was the perfect fit.

LAS: When you were articling, what did a typical day look like for you?

AB: Every day looked a little different! I had a number of my own files in youth docket, out of custody docket, and domestic violence court which I would appear on. I would also meet with clients, whether in person or by phone, and discuss positions with the Crown.

I also had the opportunity to draft a number of Charter applications, work with experienced lawyers on appeal matters, and complete research memos on a variety of topics.

LAS: What training or experience from a previous job do you have that helped you in the early days of your law career?

AB: I worked at Starbucks for 5 years and that experience was very helpful in terms of communicating and working in a fast-paced environment.

My background doing musical theatre, drama and mooting was also very helpful when it came to appearing in court and gave me confidence in making oral submissions.

LAS: What are some of the biggest highlights of your experience with LAS?

AB: My first Charter application leading to a Stay of Proceedings for our client. I love exploring Charter issues, and it was very rewarding to have the hard work of drafting written submissions pay off.

Also, travelling to rural court points.

LAS: If you could share some insight with students pursuing a career in law, what would you tell them?

AB: Keep an open mind and say "yes" to learning opportunities that come your way, even if it feels like it is out of your comfort zone! Especially as a student, the best time to learn and make mistakes is when the stakes are low and you have guidance and mentorship.

Practice humility and do not be afraid to ask questions. The practice of law requires you to be a lifelong learner, and you are constantly surrounded by experienced and insightful counsel who have been in your shoes and want to see you succeed.

LAS: What do you hope to see for legal aid services and access to justice in Saskatchewan over the next five to 10 years?

AB: I would love to see the scope of our services expand. There is a large gap between those who are financially eligible and those who can actually afford to hire a private lawyer, so to see those who fall through the cracks receive access to a lawyer is a big one.