ALAS Mentorship & Training Program FAQs 

 

Is there any cost associated with participating in the program? 

There is no cost to participate in the program.

Will I be compensated for participating in the program?

There is no remuneration for participating in the program.  As part of the program we will cover the cost for you to attend certain CPD sessions such as the LSO’s Entertainment & Media Law Symposium 2025.  

How many participants will be selected to participate in the program? 

A maximum of three mentees will be selected to participate in the program this year.

How will applicants be evaluated?

All applications will be reviewed and evaluated by a subcommittee of our Board of Directors.  Applicants will be selected based on merit, including personal and professional experience, and suitability for the program as articulated by applicants in their letter of interest.  Previous volunteer experience–particularly previous volunteer experience with ALAS–and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement will be considered an asset.

What is the time commitment for the program?

We estimate that participants will need to commit approximately 10 hours per month for one year.  This is a combination of mentorship and training time, contributing to ALAS programming, networking, and related initiatives.  Most of ALAS’ program’s occur in the evenings and training sessions will be scheduled around the participants’ schedules. We will work closely with all participants to accommodate their individual schedules and other commitments.  

Where will the program activities take place?

The majority of activities will take place virtually and can be some remotely.  Some in-person mentorship/networking opportunities may brake place in Toronto based on the interests of individual participants and their mentors.  

Is there funding to cover travel?

No, currently we do not have funding to cover travel. However, participation will not be restricted based on your ability to attend in person events. 

What areas of entertainment law will the program cover?

The program will cover diverse areas of entertainment law, including visual arts, music, film/TV, publishing, trademarks, video games, and more.  We will work with each participant to determine their specific interests and 

What kind of hands-on experience will I gain?

Participants will engage in supervised legal information sessions for artists through the ALAS legal clinic and will have opportunities to present on legal issues affecting artists. Participants will also have the opportunity to research and write legal blog posts. 

What networking opportunities will be provided?

Participants will have opportunities to connect with fellow program participants, experienced entertainment law practitioners, artists, and arts organizations representing diverse communities of artists.  

Who are the mentors, and how are they selected?

Mentors will be experienced practitioners in entertainment law and will be matched with participants based on professional goals and interests.

Can I choose the mentor I want to work with?

Mentors will be matched with mentees based on their professional goals and interests, as outlined in their application.

Is prior experience in entertainment law required?

No, the program is designed for junior lawyers with minimal or no prior experience in entertainment law.  

I’m not based in Ontario. Can I still apply?

No, this program is specifically for lawyers who are called to the Ontario bar and are practicing law in Ontario.

Can I use this program to fulfill Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements? 

This depends on the specific activities in questions and Law Society regulations. Participants should verify eligibility independently. 

Will there be future iterations of this program?

2025 is the first year the program is being offered.  It is currently a pilot project, but our hope is to continue the program in subsequent years.  Information about any future offerings is not currently available.

When will applicants be notified of acceptance?

Successful candidates will be notified by mid to late March, 2025.