Downsview Community Legal Services
Access to justice for the underprivileged community
Downsview Community Legal Services is a Community Legal clinic providing free legal assistance to underprivileged persons living in our area.
We are funded by Legal Aid Ontario and governed by a community Board of Directors. The office is staffed by lawyers, paralegals, community legal workers, and administrative staff.
What We Do
The mission of Downsview Community Legal Services is to promote access to justice for the underprivileged community.
To do this we:
- Provide free legal advice and representation to individuals in our community
- Provide community education and outreach
- Engage in law reform activities
- Foster Community Partnerships
Community Education
We help community groups understand the law and their legal rights. DCLS staff organize, conduct and participate in various public legal education events within our community. These workshops focus on areas of law and public interest within our expertise.
Law Reform
Through involvement in lobbying, test cases, and community organizing we work towards changing laws for the benefit of people who are underprivileged.
Referrals
If you have a legal problem outside of our expertise, we will provide you with other resources.
Domestic Violence
In domestic violence situations, we will provide emergency advice and referrals.
Housing Help Clinic
Downsview Community Legal Services in co-operation with Unison Health and Community Services and St. Stephen’s Conflict Mediation Services hosts a Housing Help Clinic on the third Thursday of each month.
This clinic is held inside the Lawrence Heights community at 12 Flemington Road. The goal of the Housing Clinic is to attempt resolution of landlord and tenant matters before commencing any legal action at the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Satellite Office at Lawrence Heights
We are now providing legal services to the Lawrence Heights Community at the Unison Health and Community Services, Lawrence Heights Location.
Please contact DCLS at 416-787-1661 x3263 for information or to make an appointment.
We Serve the Following Community
Training Sessions and Workshops
We are available to conduct Zoom sessions upon request by agencies and partner organizations. Please contact us for further information.
How to Become a Board Member
If you are interested in becoming a board member of Downsview Community Legal Services, you can contact the office at 416-635-8388 for an application and other information on how to join.
As a member, you are entitled to voting privileges at our Annual General Meeting.
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Hours of Operation
Mon – 9:00 to 5:00
Tue – 9:00 to 5:00
Wed – 9:00 to 1:00
Thu – 9:00 to 5:00
Fri – 9:00 to 5:00
The office is closed for lunch between 1 – 2 pm.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU CALL US FIRST AND OBTAIN AN APPOINTMENT IN ORDER TO ASSIST YOU BETTER.
Call 416-635-8388 extension 21
Statement Against Racism
Click below to read more.
Affidavit and Notarizing Service
Affidavits were available any day between:
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Due to COVID-19 and related issues, this service is by appointment only until further notice.
Intake Hours
9:00 am – 4:00 pm every day except Wednesdays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.
Our Services
We provide legal advice and assistance in the following areas:
- Landlord and Tenant
- Social Assistance (OW & ODSP)
- Canada Pension Plan/Old Age Security
- Summary Advice on Immigration
- Employment Insurance
- Family Law
Congratulations
GRACE PLUCHINO for being awarded THE 2017 SIDNEY B. LINDEN AWARD for exceptional individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to helping low-income Ontarians in the pursuit of access to justice. (Click to read more)
Contact Us
Bathurst Finch Location:
Find us at the North West corner of Bathurst Street and Finch Avenue West inside the Bathurst Finch Hub.
540 Finch Avenue West, Unit 132, Toronto,
ON M2R 1N7
Phone: (416) 635 – 8388
Fax: (416) 635 – 6471
Lawrence Heights Satellite Office Location:
Visit our Satellite office at The Unison Health and Community Services Lawrence Heights location. Now open Monday to Friday.
12 Flemington Road, Toronto,
ON M6A 2N4
Phone: (416) 787 – 1661 x 3263
For bus routes please call:
TTC bus routes: (416) 393-4636 or visit www.ttc.ca
Join us for our 2024 AGM
Please RSVP whether joining in-person or virtually. For in-person attendees, please email: dclsagm @ gmail .com or call Manel on 416-635-8388 x22
If joining virtually, click below
