Question 1

How much do I need to know about the law to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

You are not required to have prior knowledge of the law. However, applications will be evaluated based on your training performance and the quality and completeness of the RT notes you submit to ensure proper care standards are met.

Question 2

Is there a set minimum/maximum age to volunteer?

Accepted Answer

Volunteers must be over the age of 18 to join the organization. For older volunteers (25+), our mission is to empower youth, while there is no set age limit, you must fit within our mission to be a part of the organization.

Question 3

What will I be doing when I volunteer?

Accepted Answer

As a new volunteer, you will be working with your chapter to evaluate a case. Mini groups will be formed in the chapters and you will be assigned to assist on a case with a Pro-Bono law student. This will involve summarizing court documents, organizing evidence, creating memorandums, and analyzing information . Once the case is packaged, you and your team will move on to the next case.

Question 4

How do we ensure confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

All volunteers are required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prior to participating in case work.

An NDA is a legally binding contract that requires individuals to keep sensitive information confidential and prohibits the sharing, discussion, or distribution of any case-related materials outside of authorized channels.

Because our work involves highly sensitive and vulnerable individuals, confidentiality is not optional, it is foundational to the integrity and credibility of our organization. Any breach of this agreement, or refusal to sign, will result in immediate termination from case work and organizational involvement.

Question 5

What is the difference between YFI Canada and YFI USA

Accepted Answer

The Canadian branch of the organization operates exclusively through in person chapters and engages only individuals over the age of 18.

Canadian chapters collaborate with pro bono law students across the country to support case investigations, working in partnership with Miscarriages of Justice Canada.

Although much of the work is conducted remotely, all Canadian volunteers must be affiliated with an official chapter.

Question 6

Do chapters need to be at my university/college?

Accepted Answer

No, you can have a community run chapter, as long as you meet the criteria and expectations