Welcome to the Bond Law Clinic
The Bond Law Clinic is an incorporated legal practice wholly owned by Bond University, located within the Faculty of Law - Bond's very own law firm on campus!
The clinic offers law students a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience contributing to meaningful pro bono services that directly impact the community, primarily within the areas of:
- Commercial law
- Property law
- Consumer law
- Start-up law
The clinic provides free general legal advice to small businesses, not-for-profits, members of the community, Bond staff and Bond students.
Bond Law Clinic's pro bono services include advising on business structures, intellectual property (e.g., trademarks and copyright), consumer protection and competition regulation, contracts, franchising, leasing, debt disputes and general legal issues. Bond Law Clinic does not represent clients on an ongoing basis. General legal advice is provided by experienced lawyers during a one-off consultation with clients. Volunteer student involvement includes a preliminary discussion of the relevant issues with the lawyer, attending the client appointment and preparing a file note followed up by a draft letter of advice to the client.
Student FAQs
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How do I get Involved?
To apply for volunteer legal experience, click here to complete the application form.
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Who can apply?
Applicants must currently be enrolled at Bond University in a law degree program, either an LLB or JD, and have completed at least one semester. Completion of Contract and/or Property Law subjects is preferred but not essential.
Students must demonstrate the following:
- Currently enrolled at Bond University in a law degree program, either an LLB or JD;
- Completion of at least one semester;
- Past engagement in extra-curricular activities;
- Well-considered reasons for interest in the Clinic;
- Ability to sustain an ongoing commitment to the Clinic;
- High level of English communication skills – written and oral;
- High level of interpersonal skills;
- Ability to work in a team, and communicate with colleagues;
- Evidence of research skills and organisational ability.
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What does volunteering at Bond Law Clinic entail?
Typically, student volunteers will be involved in assisting lawyers with client appointments in the Clinic. The hands-on experience that students gain by assisting the community and providing a community service is invaluable in their legal education. Tasks such as legal research, drafting, interviewing clients, client intakes and related administrative work can provide practical insights into the legal profession. Specific student responsibilities will be allocated according to the student's experience and the needs of the Clinic.
Students are encouraged to commit to attending Bond Law Clinic once per fortnight which requires approximately 3 hours of their time every second week and fast track their progression through various roles in Bond Law Clinic. However, from Semester 252, applicants may choose a "Flex" option which only requires a commitment to attend Bond Law Clinic appointments at least once every 6 weeks.
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Why volunteer?
- Gain practical work experience dealing with real issues and real clients.
- Learn interviewing and drafting skills under the supervision of an experienced legal practitioners.
- Provide a community service alongside supervising lawyers in supportive environment.
- Network with experienced lawyers, academics and future colleagues in the Clinic environment.
- Progression through various Clinic roles developing confidence and professional leadership skills to become a Bond Law Clinic Champion.