Since the basics are covered, let us now focus on the preparation for the articling challenge. Allow me to echo the sound advice provided by a previous Observations editor, Derek Steingarten. As law students, we have often heard comments on the obstacles that we face in securing an articling position, particularly when looking beyond Ottawa's legal market. Talk with third year students who have lived through the process - their insight is an invaluable resource.
Articling veterans point a few cardinal rules.
Find out about their areas of practice, and learn about the qualities they seek in students. Find out who you know at every firm, and call them. If you don't know anyone, just call one of the articling students from Ottawa - they will gladly help out. Learn whether the firm needs IT law practitioners, litigation associates or something else entirely. Find out whether their hiring committee relies on personal endorsements from current articling students, or whether marks alone are the key.