The Bond Law Clinic is an on-campus advice clinic that provides free legal advice to small businesses, not-for-profits, members of the Queensland community, University staff and University students. The clinic is located at the Faculty of Law at Bond University and enables law students to volunteer their time during their degree to gain practical insight and experience in diverse areas of law.
The Clinic provides pro bono legal services in the following areas advice about issues such as business structures, intellectual property (e.g. trademarks and copyright), consumer protection and competition regulation, contracts, franchising, leasing, debt recovery, and licensing. It focuses primarily on the following areas of law:
- Commercial law
- Property law
- Consumer law
- Start-up law
The information on this page is for current Bond Law Students. If you are a member of the community seeking free legal advice from the Bond Law Clinic, please click the button below to go to our official Law Clinic webpage and request an appointment.
Student FAQs
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How do I get Involved?
Click on how to apply for more information on the application process.
There are currently 24 volunteer positions offered per semester for the Bond Law Clinic.
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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. They must have completed some commercial and/or property law subjects. Completion of at least 3 semesters 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 3 semesters is preferred;
- Past engagement in extra-curricular activities;
- Well-considered reasons for interest in the Clinic;
- Ability to sustain an ongoing commitment to the Clinic for one semester;
- 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 it entail?
Typically, student volunteers will be involved in assisting lawyers in the Clinic. The hands-on experience that students gain by dealing with the community and providing valuable 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 the student's experience and the needs of the Clinic.
The commitment of 2 hours per week on Mondays or Wednesday in alternative weeks, or at least 5 sessions per semester, allows students to balance their volunteer work with their academic responsibilities effectively.
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Why volunteer?
- Gain practical work experience dealing with real issues and real clients.
- Obtain interviewing and drafting experience under the supervision of an experience legal practitioner.
- Provide a community service by assisting lawyers in the Clinic in a supportive environment.
- Network with experienced lawyers and academics in the Clinic environment.