Inclusive Supervision in Articling
Based on findings from the 2025 Cross Provincial Articling Assessment Report
The Law Society often hears from students and principals when issues arise during articling — whether it’s unclear expectations, limited feedback, or concerns about how someone is being treated. These situations can be complex, but they usually reflect the same underlying issue: the quality of supervision matters.
The 2025 Cross Provincial Articling Report highlights this. While many students feel supported, others — particularly those from equity-seeking groups — report feeling excluded or unsure how to raise concerns.
The Law Society doesn’t manage the articling relationship, but we do offer confidential guidance on ethical and professional responsibilities. The tips below are intended as a practical reminder for both students and principals.
Why This Matters
Supervision during articling isn’t just about completing requirements — it’s an opportunity to help future lawyers build skills, confidence, and professional judgment in a safe, respectful environment.
Done well, supervision helps ensure the articling experience is effective and inclusive. Done poorly, it can contribute to barriers, complaints, or risk for both the student and the principal.
For Principals: Practice Tips
Start with a conversation
Set expectations early. Talk about communication, feedback, timelines, and learning goals. Ask how your student learns best and what experience they bring.
Be inclusive on purpose
Extend invitations to client meetings, team calls, file reviews, and informal firm activities. Don’t assume students know they’re welcome — say it out loud.
Give regular feedback
Even short, informal feedback is helpful. Silence can lead to confusion. Make feedback part of your regular routine.
Check in proactively
Students may not raise concerns unless invited to do so. A simple “how’s it going?” can open the door to important conversations.
Know your obligations
Principals are responsible under the Code (Rules 6.2-2 and 6.3) for providing meaningful supervision and creating a respectful, harassment-free environment. That includes watching for subtle forms of bias or exclusion — even if unintentional.
For Students: What to Keep in Mind
You’re not expected to know everything
Ask questions. Clarify instructions. Request feedback. These are part of the learning process — not a sign of weakness.
It’s okay to ask for more structure
If you’re feeling lost or unsure, you can respectfully ask for more direction, feedback, or exposure to different work.
Support is available
If something doesn’t feel right, or you’re unsure how to handle a situation, you can contact the Law Society for confidential guidance. You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Quick Checklist for Principals
- Clarify expectations early (goals, timelines, responsibilities, etc.)
- Include your student in meaningful work and team conversations
- Give feedback often — don’t leave them guessing
- Check in about the articling experience
- Be open to hearing concerns
- Understand your ethical obligations
Questions? Looking for Guidance?
If you’re unsure how to handle a concern — or just want to talk something through — we’re here to help. All conversations are confidential and supportive.
Joan Holmstrom
Director, Competence | Admissions & Membership
jholmstrom@lawsociety.mb.ca
204-926-2017
Noelia Bernardo
Practice, Ethics and Equity Advisor
nbernardo@lawsociety.mb.ca
204-926-2019
