It's Called “Law School” Not “Lawyer School”

There certainly exists a gap between the theoretical content taught by professors at law school and the practice of law. This gap was incredibly apparent during my summer at McCague Borlack.

Mooting vs Court

I had the opportunity to attend the Ontario Court of Appeal for a hearing as well as small claims court for a trial. In law school moots, students are expected to demonstrate their knowledge and may be questioned to determine their understanding of the facts and surrounding case law. Shadowing at court could hardly be further from this. The court is very busy, limited in time, and does not wish to hear anything irrelevant to the specific issues under review. Also, there is no reception afterwards with snacks!

"A successful litigator demonstrates their expertise by finding a swift and practical solution to the client’s problems, not by flaunting their wealth of knowledge."

Client Experience

Law school gives you little to no client contact experience. Within my first month at McCague Borlack, I have corresponded with opposing counsel, witnesses, co-counsel, and clients regarding trial preparation, document production, service of pleadings. Prior to this summer, I did not realize how important interpersonal communication and client expectation management skills were to the practice of law.

Getting the Right Answer

I have also learned that effective counsel is not always about finding the right answer, but rather about finding a practical solution. Many law school exams have a certain formula the students must follow to demonstrate their knowledge in the subject matter. I have learned in my short summer that a successful litigator demonstrates their expertise by finding a swift and practical solution to the client’s problems, not by flaunting their wealth of knowledge.

Work Schedule

Perhaps the largest difference between law school and practicing as a litigator is the volatility of personal schedules. When a law student prepares for a moot or exam, they can be sure that they will write the exam or participate in the moot. This is not always the case in the practice of law - a witness may not show up, documents may not have been produced, or preliminary issues may prevent a trial from starting. It has become clear to me that a litigator must be adaptable and “go with the flow”.

As amazing as Law School is for developing the foundation required for the practice of law, the law firm is responsible for practical development of the student. I have noticed all the above differences within 8 weeks of starting at McCague Borlack. I can only imagine what Articling has in store.

 By Robert R.

Calling (Potential) Clients – Yikes!

Prior to McCague Borlack LLP, I have had no formal law firm experience. My knowledge of interviewing and counselling was limited to what I was taught in law school, and I had never communicated with a client directly, let alone by myself.

Law Firms receive many inquiry calls from potential clients when looking to find a lawyer to take on their case.

When my turn came up in the rotation (read about our student rotation list), I was asked to call back a potential client and do the initial screening of their legal issue, I was so nervous! To calm my nerves, I prepared a mental script on introducing myself and what firm information I needed to provide to the individual from the outset. I quickly learned that there was only so much I could do to prepare for speaking with someone who is under a lot of stress.

From the start of the call, the individual was overwhelmed with their difficult situation. They often spoke in circles, repeating the same concerns, and reacting with strong emotions when answering questions. I was taken aback on how to acknowledge the caller’s emotions and still gather the information I needed.

As the conversation progressed, I found my footing and worked out how to direct the conversation to focus on the underlying issues. I acknowledged their emotions and difficulties while maintaining a professional tone. I realized that this approach helped in calming the caller down and guiding them to provide direct answers to my questions. Additionally, I began frequently referring to previously mentioned details, which helped the caller feel heard and provided me with the clarification I needed.

At the end of the conversation, I felt relieved and more confident in my direct client communication skills. Although it was a very emotionally charged experience, it was a great learning opportunity and exposure to client management.

by Simran S.

From Serving Tables to Serving Clients: How Customer Service Prepared Me for the Practice of Law

Before law school, I ran the gauntlet of customer service jobs. Food services, retail, receptionist, server – you name it, I did it. At the same time, feeling an early aspiration to pursue law, I couldn’t help but wonder if there were other jobs that would make me a more appealing candidate to schools and employers alike.

I was surprised not only by how receptive legal employers have always been to my past customer service work, but also how helpful it’s been in legal practice. 

Here are just a few ways I’ve felt the benefit of my experiences:

Managing Expectations

When I was a teenager, I could not stop getting myself into sticky situations by making promises I couldn’t keep. Once, a customer at a retail job asked me if they had a shirt in a certain colour, and I replied with an emphatic “Yes! Let me go get it from the back”.

After spending far too long in the back, realizing that we indeed did not have that shirt in that colour, the dread set in. Not only did I waste the customer’s time, but I now needed to return and admit my mistake to their face. The only real consequence upon doing so was being met with a blank face and “Oh, okay”. Even so, it was a simple lesson that empty promises aren’t worth the risk.

In law, there’s often a pull to try to placate clients by giving them immediate validation. Their matters are already taking “forever”, and the outcome is important to them. However, if you make a promise you can’t keep, you risk undermining their confidence in you. Once a client loses faith in their lawyer, the whole client-solicitor relationship may as well collapse entirely.

Information Gathering

In customer service, I quickly learned that what a customer says they want isn't always what they actually need. A customer who asks to omit shrimp from their dish may simply dislike the texture or tase. Or, they may have a shellfish allergy, in which swapping in scallops without asking is a bold way to find out. I learned to ask targeted questions and read between the lines, ideally before your customer starts breaking out in hives.

When a client comes to the firm with a legal issue, we’d be lucky if they present a neat, chronological, legally relevant timeline. Instead, they may give a messy narrative filled with personal grievances, irrelevant details, and missing gaps. My time in customer service taught me how to interview people effectively, including active listening, knowing when to dig deeper, and how to gently guide a conversation back on track to get the facts I actually need.

Dealing with Conflict

When I was much younger, my instinct was always to be very deferential to rowdy customers. I didn’t want to risk making them angrier. Over time, I found that coming in with an assertive-but-respectful attitude was far more successful than appearing sheepish. Customers who are upset are often testing the waters, gauging how much room they have to push. A confident "here's what I can do" landed better than being needlessly apologetic because it signaled that I was actually in control of the situation.

Now in legal practice, the stakes are much higher. Some clients are a combination of emotional, on tight time constraints, or confused by the legal process. Opposing counsel can be belligerent, or worse, incompetent. All-in-all, the average lawyer may be confronted with several difficult conversations per week. Any opportunity I had to build my confidence in dealing with confrontation was a valuable one.

The Main Takeaway

Looking back, I don't think my time in customer service made me a stronger candidate because it filled in space on my resume. It mattered because it forced me to develop skills that no amount of studying could have taught me. I shouldn’t have discounted the years I spent folding shirts, serving tables, or answering phones. I may not have known it at the time, but I was already a lawyer in training.

by Caroline S.

Examination for Discovery Loading…

My summer at the firm so far has been exciting, to say the least. Every day brings new learning opportunities. The workdays go by extremely fast; it doesn't feel like work because I am learning so much and am genuinely excited to take on new tasks. After only being with the firm for two weeks, I have already had the pleasure of meeting so many colleagues. Everyone is eager to assist us, whether by explaining their practice areas or helping us set up our technology.

One experience that stands out thus far happened within my first week of accepting assignments.

"A Partner reached out to me in the morning asking if I would be willing to attend an Examination for Discovery (ED) and take notes."

This would be my first ED (and proceeding), so I was very excited to attend.

After three hours, the deponent abandoned the discovery, citing previous commitments that they could not postpone. Three lawyers were placed “on hold” and would have to reschedule the proceeding. Watching the Partner handle this matter taught me a lot. I saw strong advocacy in action. The Partner was not willing to continue with the EDs as scheduled for the following day because this would be prejudicial to the other parties, including our client, if the order of EDs was changed. Even though it was inconvenient to have to reschedule all the days, that is what was best for the client and therefore how we needed to proceed.

After that, there were some laughs about this unusual scenario. I am told that the abandonment of an ED does not happen often, yet this was my very first experience. I am looking forward to attending the EDs whenever they take place. Plus, I've already come to appreciate that in litigation the only thing to expect is the unexpected."

by Alexis Z.

Attending a Coroner’s Inquest

With the articling term nearing its end, I have many new experiences to reflect on. I have had the opportunity to attend multiple examinations for discovery, to speak in court, to attend a day of Small Claims Court trial, attend mediations, and settlement conferences. While these forms of advocacy are typically covered in the articling term at McCague, I was also able to participate in a coroner’s inquest. I had not heard of an inquest before receiving the assignment, so learning about the process was an entirely new experience.

A coroner’s inquest is run much like a trial, with examinations and cross-examinations of witnesses, and closing statements being delivered by the parties. 

There is no finding of guilt or fault at the end; the jury makes a finding as to how the death was caused and makes recommendations that will hopefully prevent similar deaths from occurring in the future. There is also a collaborative nature to the inquest, as the parties work together to ensure that all of the evidence is presented to the jury so that they can make productive recommendations for future improvement. The goal of the inquest is unique among other forms of advocacy, and it changed the way I viewed the evidence and my approach to the examinations. While the subject matter and evidence could be difficult to engage with, given the nature of the inquest, the goal of the inquest in making an improvement in the system was a useful anchor to manage how I felt about the evidence itself.

My main task was to review all of the evidence that we received from the coroner’s office and to sort the facts based on how they affected our client’s position. It really challenged me to think about all of the different ways that the evidence could be perceived, and often it was not a simple “good” or “bad” answer, but one that could be viewed in multiple ways. I worked on finding a way to concisely communicate the various ways that the evidence could be viewed, while also trying to make a decision as to what the most likely or overarching message of the evidence was.

In addition to reviewing all of the evidence, I was also able to attend the inquest and take notes on the witnesses’ evidence. This allowed me to witness many different lawyers and their styles of cross-examination. Overall, it was a learning experience that I never expected to have about a form of advocacy that isn’t as common as our typical mediations, discoveries, and settlement conferences. The skills that I learned in reviewing the evidence and engaging with our client and the other parties will translate to the other forms of advocacy that I will engage in at the firm, and I look forward to applying them in the future.

Emily O.

Interacting with clients and serving as an advocate

When I started articling at McCague, I expected to spend much of my time learning the law through pleadings, research, and drafting. What I did not fully anticipate was how central client interaction would be to my development as an advocate. Over the course of my articles, I have been asked, on more occasions than I can count, to interact directly with clients and potential clients through phone calls, emails, and meetings. 

These client interactions have become one of the most formative aspects of my articling experience.

One of the first client-facing tasks I encountered was handling intake calls from potential clients.  Initially, this felt daunting. Calling somebody you have never spoken to, often about stressful or unfamiliar legal matters, requires a careful balance of professionalism, empathy, and confidence. Over time, I learned that preparation is everything. Understanding the (potential) file, anticipating questions, speaking with the supervising lawyer for guidance, and being clear about the purpose of the call helped transform what felt uncomfortable into an opportunity to build trust, rapport, and my own confidence as an advocate. These conversations with warm calls reinforced the idea that advocacy begins well before any courtroom appearance, as it starts with how you communicate with the client.

Following up with clients on active matters further developed this perspective. Clients are often navigating uncertainty, and even brief updates can provide reassurance and clarity. Through these interactions, I learned the importance of translating legal developments into plain language, ensuring that clients feel informed rather than overwhelmed. Being mindful of tone, timing, and responsiveness taught me that effective advocacy includes managing expectations and maintaining open lines of communication.

These experiences also outlined the responsibility that comes with being the point of contact on a file, as I have several Small Claims Court files where I am the primary point of client contact. As an articling student, I benefit from a strong support system provided by the firm's supervising lawyers. They not only oversee my work at each step of the process but also serve as mentors. Being able to work with various lawyers and devise a plan of attack before each task allows me to grow and learn in a safe environment that ensures efficiency and promotes development.

Working alongside lawyers at McCague, I observed how strong client relationships are built over time through consistency, honesty, and professionalism. This encourages me to take ownership of client communications while knowing support is always available when needed. When a new issue arises that I am unsure how to navigate, I am always comfortable speaking with the supervising lawyer, where we work together and talk through the potential options. These candid sessions, where I get to consult with supervising lawyers, have been a cornerstone of my time at McCague. This balance, where I am given independence while always having a mentor supervising my work, has allowed me to grow more confident as an advocate.

Ultimately, my articling experience reinforced that advocacy is not limited to written submissions or oral arguments. Advocacy is present in every phone call, email, and follow-up. Learning to engage with clients thoughtfully and effectively through the strong mentorship and supervision provided at McCague has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of what it means to be a lawyer. As I move forward and get called to the bar in June, the lessons learned from these early client interactions and strong mentorship opportunities will remain integral to how I approach advocacy, both inside and outside the courtroom.

by Jordan J.

In Praise of IT: The Unsung Heroes Who Save the Day (Every. Single. Time.)

There are a few universal truths in office life. The printer will jam when you’re already late. Your screen will freeze five minutes before a deadline. And the moment you say, “I don’t need IT today,” something catastrophic will immediately happen to your computer.

Enter IT.

IT doesn’t walk - they arrive. Calm. Unbothered.

Usually, holding a cable you didn’t know existed.

While the rest of us are panicking, whispering “why now” to our laptops like it’s a hostage negotiation, IT shows up with the quiet confidence of people who have seen far worse.

Your screen is black? They’ve seen it.

Your system “just updated itself”? They expected it.

You clicked something you definitely shouldn’t have clicked? They already know.

What makes IT truly heroic is not just that they fix things - it’s how they fix them. They never judge. They don’t ask why you tried to print 400 pages to the wrong printer. They don’t flinch when you say, “It was working five minutes ago.” They nod thoughtfully, tap a few keys, and somehow resurrect your entire workstation like it was never dead at all.

But beyond the technical wizardry, what really sets our IT team apart is the people themselves. They are unfailingly kind, patient, and approachable - even when the issue is entirely user-created. They take the time to explain, to help, and to make sure you’re back up and running without ever making you feel foolish for asking.

And let’s talk about timing.

IT has an almost supernatural ability to appear exactly when things are at their worst. Deadline in ten minutes? They’re there. Court filing due? They’re already walking over. Wi-Fi down? Somehow, they sensed it. They swoop in.

They save the day.

They disappear like nothing ever happened.

IT is also the only department that can say things like “Have you tried restarting?” and be both correct and respected. Because somehow, when they say it, it actually works.

Beyond keeping our systems running, they make the office better simply by being in it. We are genuinely very lucky to have such a knowledgeable, responsive, and nice group of people we can always count on.

So here’s to IT — the quiet heroes of the office. The problem-solvers. The calm in the storm. The people who keep everything running so the rest of us can pretend we know what we’re doing.

We see you.

We appreciate you.

And we promise (again) not to click suspicious links.

by Tiara B.

Swapping Professional Hats

I renewed my nursing license for the ninth time in the ragged weeks of 2025. Nursing has been my sole professional identity, but change is on the horizon. Once my articles end, I will be joining another regulated profession. 

My New Year’s realization is to make room for a new professional “hat.”

My perpetual desire to do something different spurred me to take the leap of faith into law. Before summering and articling, I had very little idea what practicing in law entails, least of all litigation. Now, I have at least a fledgling sense of what is to come. Rather than looking back at nursing moments I will miss, I can reflect on the new skills I have added to my toolbelt along the way.

Nursing is where I honed my soft skills, including engaging with clients and colleagues, balancing workloads, and adapting to change. It was a demanding practice physically, mentally, and emotionally. No day was ever the same; I didn't take work home with me, and most issues demanded on-the-spot decisions. Compare this to the life of an articling student/lawyer. I can attest that: my chair remains occupied for most of the day, most work done contributes to a much bigger and longer-running picture, and many hours are spent alone with one’s work product. In short, the daily life of a nurse and a lawyer could not be more different, but the underlying, necessary qualities remain the same: work hard, stay nimble, and keep learning.

On the topic of learning, every day of articling has brought with it new revelations. While the Ontario Courts Public Portal has provided many lessons in patience and perseverance, the most memorable assignments, coincidentally, have involved fellow nurses. I’ve had the chance to explore professional liability insurance, particularly the representation of nurses covered under such policies. Admittedly, I found it difficult not to place myself in their shoes. It was all too easy to slip into the mode of “if I were that person, practicing in that environment, I think this is what I would have done.” On one hand, I find this might be a worthwhile reflection; knowing, from professional experience, what a nurse should or should not have done has its advantages. However, I can also see this becoming a distraction from the task at hand.

A goal from this reflection is to delineate when to keep my nursing cap on and when to hang it up. As I progress into the latter half of articles, I've learned that changing hats does not mean abandoning the old one forever. Rather, it means carrying forward the experiences that shaped me, while embracing what comes next.

by Joseph C.

The Halfway Point: How Articling is Different from Summering

Somehow it's already December, which means we are just about at the halfway point of articling – how did we get here so quick? It has been an unforgettable journey so far, and I can’t imagine what the next 6 months will have in store for us.

Before jumping into how articling is different from summering, I want to highlight some of the ‘roses’ I’ve had so far...

... the first being the unforgettable trip the Ottawa students took down to the Toronto office to attend the annual client party. Not only did we finally get to meet the Toronto students, but also lawyers from all the offices! It was so fun to finally put faces to names and meet face-to-face rather than on Zoom calls. A close second would be the countless memories made with the other students. One undeniable fact about the students in both the Ottawa and Toronto offices is that we have built lifelong friendships, and being able to work so closely with some of our closest friends makes the culture at the firm and as an articling student truly incredible.

One of the main differences between summering and articling so far has been being able to actually stay on a file and work on different assignments within one matter. It’s incredibly interesting to be able to assist with various moving parts of a file and being able to see them come together. For example, an affidavit drafted over the summer may end up being revisited in order to pull correspondences out to help draft a 30.10 motion, but at the time of drafting the affidavit, certain emails may not have seemed that important. It’s also fascinating to help prepare mediation materials, or motion materials and then be able to actually attend and see how those materials contribute to the litigation.

Another big difference while articling is the mix of confidence, being able to return with familiarity of expectations for certain assignments, but also the autonomy we now have on assignments. Obviously almost every assignment still comes with what feels like a thousand questions, but being trusted to draft materials where I’m the one looking at productions and making an opinion, or being asked to research a topic from scratch and putting together an argument for a factum makes me feel as though I’m starting to get my footwork figured out in what it actually is like to practice law. Of course, the safety net of having a ton of resources and support is always still there, but the environment is very conducive to promoting our confidence as soon-to-be lawyers!

The first (almost) six months of articling have been full of incredible experiences and assignments, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of articling has to offer!

by Lauren M.

A Night to Remember: The Art of Connection Beyond the Office

The night flowed like champagne—smooth, sparkling, and a reminder that articling isn’t just a professional chapter, but a shared celebration of growth and connection.

Last week, our firm hosted its annual client appreciation party at Roy Thomson Hall, welcoming more than a hundred guests. It was one of those rare evenings where suits traded in their serious tones for laughter, clinking glasses, and endless trays of hors d’oeuvres that seemed to appear out of thin air. Lawyers and students from all of our regional offices came together that night, making it a true firm-wide celebration of connection and camaraderie.

As articling students, it was an opportunity to see the people behind the email signatures—clients, insureds, adjusters, and counsel who make up the community we work with every day. 

We dressed up, mingled, and swapped courtroom war stories for conversations about travel, family, and baseball (more on that later).

The night didn’t end at Roy Thomson. Like any great story, there was a lively epilogue: a group of us gathered at a nearby pub, still in our formalwear, watching the Blue Jays in the championship series with the kind of collective energy only a close team can have. Between cheering, laughing, and sharing fries under dim bar lights, the lines between “colleague” and “friend” blurred in the best possible way. It wasn’t just a party—it was a reflection of what it means to be part of this firm. It’s the reminder that while we work hard on our files, we’re also part of something larger: a team that celebrates together, supports one another, and makes even the busiest articling year feel a little like home.

Some nights stand out not because of the venue or the menu, but because of the people. This was one of those nights—a perfect snapshot of what it means to belong here.

by Tiara B.

The Adjustment from Student to Articling Student

 

I was a full-time student for 20 straight years. Over time, I found a comfortable routine and enjoyed the rhythm of academic life—especially having summers off. Without a doubt, my favourite part of being a student was the flexible schedule. Law school amplified that flexibility: some days I could sleep in, and other days I had long gaps that allowed me to take walks around the city or meet up with friends. 

I thought life as I knew it would come to an end when I began articling. But I’ve worked hard to organize my new routine in a way that fits my lifestyle.

I am a morning person. Late-night studying was never my thing, so early in my articling term, I started coming into the office an hour before the office day officially began. That quiet time has become one of the most productive parts of my day.

Staying connected with friends has also been a priority. It’s easy to get caught up in work and then retreat into solitude after a long day. But I’ve found that making plans to see friends after work is one of the best ways to recharge and stay grounded.

With a full-time schedule, work-life balance is essential. With my early start, I have time to get to the gym or take a run before dinner. I play ice hockey on weekends and squeeze in a round of golf whenever time permits. Staying active is essential—not just for my physical health, but for managing the stress that comes with working in a busy law office.

While many colleagues enjoy working remotely, I’ve found value in being in the office daily. When my schedule aligns with other students, we take short walks to Parliament for fresh air—echoing the walks I used to take as a student. We also share lunch breaks in the lunchroom, catching up on work and life outside of law. Sometimes, other lawyers join us, adding to the camaraderie and conversation. These moments of connection add satisfaction to the day.

Transitioning from student life to articling has been significant—but not in a negative way. By preserving the routines and relationships that kept me grounded as a student, I found stability and joy in my new role. Change can be daunting, but it also brings opportunity. With intention and self-awareness, it’s possible to carry forward the best parts of your past while embracing the growth that comes with new beginnings.

by Matthew B.

What Kind of Pizza Topping Are We? A Slice of the Articling Experience

 

During a recent interview with a prospective student, we were asked a question that gave us pause: 

“If your firm were a pizza topping, what would you be?”

At first glance, it seemed like a playful icebreaker. But as we thought about it, the answer actually reflects the articling experience here. If I had to choose, we’d be mushrooms.

Why? Because mushrooms adapt to any slice they’re on. They bring depth, versatility, and a richness of flavour that complements everything else around them. In the same way, articling at our firm means adapting to a wide variety of practice areas—insurance, commercial litigation, construction law, personal injury, employment, and more. Each file offers its own unique “slice,” and as students, we get the chance to grow into whatever the situation calls for.

Like mushrooms on pizza, we’re not just there for decoration—we add value by soaking up the knowledge around us. Every motion, discovery, and client meeting is an opportunity to learn from experienced counsel and contribute meaningfully to the case. One day, we might be drafting affidavits in a construction lien matter, and the next, preparing research for a complex commercial dispute. 

The beauty of articling at MB is that no two slices are ever the same. With each new challenge, we become more adaptable, more resourceful, and better prepared for the diverse practice of law. 

So, what started as a fun interview question actually turned out to be the perfect metaphor for articling life: we are mushrooms on the firm’s pizza—always learning, always adapting, and always adding depth to the slice in front of us.

by Tiara B.

Becoming the Lawyer I'm Meant to Be

Since starting as a law student, the question - Am I really meant for this? - keeps popping into my head. It’s not just me—many people around me seem to wrestle with the same thought.

Law is demanding in ways that are hard to explain to anyone who hasn’t lived it—the long nights, the responsibility, the constant pace.

It’s easy to get caught up in the go-go-go and forget to pause and acknowledge what we’ve already accomplished.

Imposter syndrome is real. I’ve noticed how easy it is to compare ourselves to peers, to wonder if we’re keeping up, or to focus on what we could have done better. After writing the bar exam this summer, I caught myself doing exactly that—thinking about what I missed instead of celebrating what I’d already achieved. But the truth is—we’ve already done incredible things to get here. Taking a moment to reflect on that progress is so important.

Perfectionism makes this even trickier. As lawyers, we’re trained to aim high, leave no stone unturned, and get every detail right. But I’ve noticed that perfectionism often leads to worry, fear of mistakes, and feeling like nothing we do is ever good enough. I’ve learned to reframe this for myself: striving for excellence is important, but it doesn’t mean torturing yourself. Doing your best, while being kind to yourself, is the goal.

Another thing I’ve realized is that growth comes from putting yourself out there. At the start of last summer, I was nervous to ask questions—I worried about sounding unprepared. But I’ve learned that asking questions isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength. It shows you’re engaged and invested in learning the work. Other lawyers want you to succeed. Speaking up has become my reminder that I belong here and that I’m capable of becoming the lawyer I want to be.

In just a few weeks of articling, I’ve attended a motion, participated in discoveries, drafted affidavits, and will soon be at the Court of Appeal. These experiences are reminders that success doesn’t come overnight.

Success comes from showing up, working hard, and embracing the opportunities in front of you.

The path isn’t always linear. There are moments when I feel unsure, isolated, or out of place—but that doesn’t mean I don’t belong. Everyone’s journey is different. I’ve started to focus on taking care of myself, seeking mentorship, and remembering why I chose this path: to grow, to learn, and to surround myself with people who challenge and support me.

Articling is just the beginning. There will be tough days, but there are also moments that make this career deeply rewarding. By reframing what feels like doubt or failure and allowing myself to celebrate wins—even the small ones—I’m learning to trust that I belong here. And that’s how I’m slowly becoming the lawyer I’ve always wanted to be.

by Zlata B.

Diving In

The midsummer sun bathed everything in an orange glow and blanketed my body in a warm embrace. I was eight years old at the local pool, queued behind the rest of the students in my swim lesson cohort. On this day, I had my first ever diving lesson.

When it was my turn, I locked my elbows and positioned my arms in a triangle behind my ears. I gazed nervously at the water in the deep end. A million thoughts ran through my mind.

Would the water be very cold? Will I forget how to hold my breath? Will I swallow massive amounts of chlorinated water, and choke? Will everyone laugh, because I don’t know how to dive?

The swim instructor’s voice cut through the chaos of my mind.

“Don’t think too hard about it,” he said, “just close your eyes, and go for it.”

And so, I did. The water was very cold in contrast with the warmth of the sun. I did accidentally swallow too much of it; but then, I came up for air and realized I had survived, and surprisingly, diving in was lots of fun.

My 2L summer experience was a lot like my first diving lesson. 

There’s no way you could really prepare for it. You’re given a comprehensive, theoretical orientation, which was a helpful primer, much like being “taught” how to dive by example was a helpful primer, but the most effective way to learn, of course, was by doing.

My first few assignments felt like diving into a pool from the deep end, but in the best possible way. There was a split moment of panic where you realize everything is new, and you don’t know anything. Just as the chlorinated water had burned my lungs, the massive size of some of the files we had to sift through to create damages briefs was slightly overwhelming; but don’t let this scare you!

The fun part comes after the initial nerves—when you let your instincts take over and you begin to naturally problem-solve. We were hired because we had the ability to learn, not because we knew everything already. The most gratifying experience was learning to piece together what would eventually become a completed damages brief, among many other things.

As my summer ends, I reflect on everything I have learned. I now had a true appreciation for what “hands on” really meant. Over the course of 12 weeks, I had only done a handful of research assignments. The bulk of my work was drafting legal documents. Highlights include a draft order and a bill of costs that made its way to the Court of Appeal.

I was not perfect, but I didn’t need to be. I proved to myself that I was unafraid of discomfort—of diving into cold water (or in this case, 3000-page documents) and emerging unscathed. Eight-year-old me faced her fear of diving, and twenty-four-year-old me faced her fear of entering the world of law, equipped with everything I ever needed, which was nothing at all except myself.

by Yeru T.

What I Wish I Knew Before Recruitment

 

As I wrap up coffee chats with incoming 2Ls, I’m reminded how overwhelming recruitment felt last year, like I had to sound polished and certain, even when I wasn’t. Now, two months into my summer at McCague Borlack LLP, I’ve learned that what really stands out isn’t perfection, but being thoughtful, curious, and showing up as myself.

Here’s what I wish I had known from the start...

I didn’t need to have it all figured out.

I used to think I needed a perfectly mapped-out career plan to be taken seriously. I assumed everyone else knew exactly what kind of lawyer they wanted to be. I didn’t. And it turns out that was okay. I’ve since learned that being open to learning, honest about my interests, and willing to ask questions meant more than having all the answers.

Coffee chats are conversations, not interviews.

At first, I over-prepared for coffee chats. I brought lists of questions, such as “What’s mentorship like at your firm?” or “How’s the informal support?” They were still good questions, but the best conversations happened when I started asking what I genuinely wanted to know — the stuff that sparked real conversations. The most memorable chats weren’t the most strategic; they were the most human.

The right fit goes both ways.

I spent so much time trying to make a good impression that I almost forgot I was also supposed to be evaluating whether a firm was right for me. What stood out during my own recruitment process wasn’t a specific answer; it was the people. I remember watching partners and associates at McCague Borlack laughing and chatting with each other between interviews. The way they interacted made the space feel warm and familiar, like a place I could see myself. That feeling mattered. And now, being here, I’m glad I trusted it. One thing I was told during OCIs that really stuck with me: “As much as this is an interview for us about you, it’s also an interview for you about us.” That couldn’t be more true.

My story was enough.

I didn’t come into recruitment with a long list of legal experiences. I hadn’t worked at a clinic. But I had a reason for being here, and a story that mattered. It took time for me to see how much my years in customer service helped, how those experiences shaped how I communicate, problem-solve, and stay calm under pressure. What once felt irrelevant turned out to be a strength. 

Be prepared for the long in-firm days.

My biggest rookie mistake was wearing heels all day with no backup. I’ll never forget leaving the Exchange Tower, limping down the street, silently envying everyone around me in their sneakers or flats. Between the blisters on my feet and the drink I spilled on my shirt, it was a humbling lesson in practicality.

Looking back now, I can’t help but wonder what advice future me will have after my first trial — hopefully, she brings flats.

by Ryyan E.

From Real Estate Deals to Real Estate Court Disputes: A Reflection on Career Transition

My transition from real estate agent to law student has given me a unique advantage in the world of real estate litigation. As a real estate agent, I focused on helping clients navigate property transactions with care and foresight, aiming to address potential issues early and prevent problems before they could escalate.

As a summer student, I experienced, for the first time, what happens when those issues are not resolved. 

I had the opportunity to observe a court case involving a contentious real estate sale. 

The matter centered on contractual obligations and the interpretation of standard real estate clauses – language I had navigated countless times in my previous career. Seeing these familiar concepts examined so closely in a legal setting was eye-opening and gave me a deeper appreciation for the impact of every word.

This experience made me realize I will be a valuable resource for colleagues and clients on matters focused on real estate litigation. Clients will benefit from an advocate who not only understands the technicalities of contracts and disclosure obligations but also appreciates the realities and pressures of real estate transactions. I can explain the practical application and common industry practices surrounding specific clauses and offer guidance to agents on how best to protect their interests. This support is valuable both in preventing disputes and in resolving them when they occur.

For my colleagues, my background means I can provide clarity on industry norms and flag potential pitfalls that might not be obvious from the legal documents alone. This collaborative approach can lead to more robust strategies, whether we are advising on risk management or preparing for litigation. It is gratifying to know that my practical insights can help inform legal decisions and contribute to positive outcomes for our clients.

This summer has already given me a profound appreciation for how diverse past professional experiences can strengthen legal practice, including in the world of real estate litigation.

by Muskan F.

Reality Check

This week officially marks the halfway point of my Summer Student experience with McCague Borlack. I’ve already learned so much and met so many amazing people. 

After a chat with Ashley, the Director of Student Program & Audit, I started reflecting on how my experience so far has differed from what my 2L-self expected from a summer student position…

Expectation: you know nothing -> Reality: you really know nothing… but that’s okay! Like many other incoming summer students, the fear of making mistakes and feeling silly weighed on me before even starting the program. My expectation was that I would come in and not know anything… and that’s exactly what happened! While that may sound terrifying, the bright side is that the rest of the firm also had the same expectation – no one expected me to walk in and know how to be a lawyer… we’re here to learn! Ashley made this clear in the first few days of orientation and it continues to ring true 6 weeks into the program. The reality is, we all have to start from somewhere. Partners, associates, articling students and anyone else who can, is willing to help the students with as many seemingly silly questions as we can come up with. So, I know nothing but I’m learning and that’s what matters.

Expectation: students get the grunt work -> Reality: the MB summer student program is SO immersive Throughout recruit, students typically just accept that 2L summer is going to be grinding out research tasks for 3 months straight – that we’ve got to do our time in the trenches before we get to work on the really interesting stuff. I’m happy to report that this is not the reality. While we do some research work, my experience thus far has been much more than that. The majority of my work has been centred around drafting pleadings and organizing productions. I’ve chatted with clients and coordinated the gathering of documents. The most exciting part is the field trips. I’ve attended a pre-trial conference, a mediation, taken a few trips to the courthouse and am scheduled to observe a motion in a few weeks. Overall, I’ve had a very well-rounded experience and am excited to see what comes next.

Expectation: the legal field is intimidating -> Reality: the people make all the difference Coming into the legal world can be intimidating. The lawyers are smart, confident, accomplished and professional, and you’re just… a student. This was my expectation anyways, but luckily that isn’t the reality. In my experience, the people I’ve met at MB are just that – people! Orientation brought all the students together across locations, fostering friendships before we even set foot in the office. We continue to meet multiple times a week and share each other’s successes and challenges both inside and outside of work. In the office, partners, associates, admin and students alike make a point of being fun, friendly and helpful, while after hours firm dinners help to strengthen relationships beyond work. Being surrounded by the right people is really a make-or-break component of a good summer experience and luckily for me, I’ve met some of the best.

by Kylie G.

A World of Firsts

I was feeling both excited and nervous starting my 2L summer student position at McCague Borlack LLP, but a friend’s pep talk reminded me that there are many new beginnings when starting out on any endeavours.

There was the first day of high school, the first day of undergraduate studies, the first day of law school, and now, the first day as a law student at a firm.

Of course, next will be the first day as an articling student and the first day as a lawyer. Each first seems just as daunting as the last. It never feels like you are fully prepared; but here is where our conversation embedded itself into my mind.

When starting your summer student position, you are already as prepared as you can possibly be. Let me clarify. Though prepared, you are not always as competent as you can be, but this is a part of starting something new. The transition between law school and the legal profession is one that will always give you challenges. You cannot, and will not, get it perfect. You will slip up, make mistakes, and probably feel like you are unable to perform the tasks in the way that you should. When transitioning from undergraduate studies to law school, there is often that familiar feeling of imposter syndrome. Because when you start something new, it is always new. You cannot be better prepared for it except if you have already done it, and if you have already done it, well, then it is not your “first” time doing it after all.

This recognition and mindset shift is something that helped me accept this new challenge. Because it is not about making mistakes; it is not about getting everything perfect the first time, and it is not about presenting yourself as though you know what you are doing. It is all about learning from your mistakes, accepting that you know next to nothing, and being willing to become competent in this new process and experience. Just like how the shift from high school to undergraduate studies, and on to law school involved adaptability, so too does the shift from law school to a professional career. I realized that this transition is just that – a transition.

With this realization also came the understanding that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Learning from different lawyers and looking to my peers in both a school and professional setting, everyone develops their own strategies and processes. This plurality of approaches which showcase flexibility and an eagerness to learn seems to be the only universal mode of success to me. Being able to absorb everything you see and being willing to accept your position as someone at the start of a new journey sheds light on the path ahead. These lessons prepare us for the future “first” steps that await.

by Kayen F.

In-person Summer Student Experience

When I was a kid, I used to romanticize commuting on the train. I dreamt of taking the train to work, getting off at Union Station, and hustling in my heels to a high-rise office in the heart of downtown Toronto. And although that is exactly what I am doing now, the novelty of the train has worn off—along with the skin on my feet.

While the journey to work isn’t as glamourous as I had envisioned, working in person at McCague Borlack LLP as a summer student is everything I imagined.

Our orientation was via zoom, which made sense because we (the Toronto students) were training together with the Ottawa students. As well, MB lawyers from offices across Ontario logged in to speak to us on various topics.

However, the true benefit of working in-person became apparent the moment our assignments were handed out during the second week. 

We are seated in adjoining cubicles, allowing us to communicate freely and openly. Thankfully, we are far enough from the lawyer’s offices to speak candidly—even when asking questions that might seem “dumb” given our collective experience.

With no one having any actual experience with the work we were taking on, any tidbit a lawyer provided to one student benefited us all as it was usually within earshot.

As time progressed, we began to accumulate more information that we could share with one another. From day one, sharing a small point about how to dial a number out of the office—to day 10, sharing whole precedents of finished damages briefs, notice of subrogation letters, and affidavits of documents—the in-person experience enabled us to connect and impart our newfound knowledge without restraint. By actively communicating with my fellow summer students, we have created a bond that feels like we’ve worked together for years.

Further, if we want facetime with various lawyers at the firm, they are only a minute walk through the office. This convenience has allowed me to reach out to people I may not have otherwise met or spoken to. Furthermore, it has allowed for greater efficiency. I only having to take a few steps to ask a question that I would’ve otherwise ruminated on until I got a call or email back.

Overall, though I have only been at MB in a summer student role for just shy of a month, the experience of working with my fellow students, the office staff, and the firm’s lawyers has allowed me to gain more confidence, comfort, and knowledge than I think working online could have ever afforded. Being a student that did at least half of my undergraduate degree remotely, this learning opportunity is irreplaceable to me. 

So maybe I don’t mind commuting so much after all…

by Claudia P.

Getting My First Assignment

 

Last week, the summer students finished our firm orientation and were open for assignments! As the announcement went out to all the lawyers at MB, we were all feeling the nerves and excitement as we waited to get our first assignments. As this was my first time working in a litigation firm, I had no idea what to expect and was anxious to get started. After a couple of hours of (not so) patiently waiting, I got my first assignment: drafting two production summaries.

My first step was to speak to the assigning lawyer to get more details on the task that was assigned.

As this was my first ever assignment, let alone my first production summary, the assigning lawyer was very kind in explaining to me the details of the file as well as how she would like me to do the production summaries. Since every lawyer has a different style and preference for how they like their summaries, I made sure to take diligent notes to ensure that I drafted the summaries how the lawyer liked.

After I received the instructions, I sat down at my desk and began diving into the documents. The first thing I realized as I opened my first document was that I wasn’t entirely sure where to find what I was looking for. The documents were filled with tons of information that made them difficult to decipher. Luckily for me, I reached out to the wonderful articling students in our office, who gave me some helpful guidance that helped me better review the documents.

As I started weeding through all the documents, I started getting frustrated with myself on how slow I felt my progress was. During orientation, we heard about how fast others could review productions, and I began doubting my own abilities because I was taking much longer. Luckily, Ashley Faust, Director of Student Programs, reminded me that I’m learning to do a new task and that takes time, and to not be as concerned about how long it takes me to get the assignment done so long as I do the assignment well. This helped me to curb my own frustration and helped me to keep plugging along.

Document by document, I reviewed each piece and recorded all the relevant information for the supervising lawyer. I found it quite interesting to read through the documents and piece together more about the case we were working on through the productions. As I did more production reviews, I felt as though I was able to find the pertinent information and record it all down faster.

Finally, after many hours of hard work, I finished both summaries! I felt so relieved and proud to have completed my first bigger assignment at the firm. After having an articling student look over my work to make sure everything looked alright, I submitted my summaries to the lawyer and crossed the assignment off my to-do list.

Throughout my first big assignment, I learned that I need to have more patience with myself. The point of being a student is to learn so that by the time we are lawyers, we have the skills we need to serve our clients effectively and efficiently. I am very grateful to the supportive team here at MB that gives us the space to take on new assignments, learn new things as we go, and to hopefully make us great lawyers one day!

by Asta S.