About

People's Law School is a non-profit society in British Columbia, dedicated to making the law accessible to everyone. We provide free education and information to help people effectively deal with the legal problems of daily life.

Our vision

Our vision at People's Law School is a province where people have the knowledge, skills and confidence to resolve everyday legal matters.

Here are our values:

• We are proud to help people access quality and trustworthy legal information

• We are committed to diversity and inclusion

• We are responsive, resilient and agile to changes in the law and in the way people learn

Learn more about our vision, values and strategy.

Our board

Led by chair Dean Tate, our board of directors keep us focused on the organization's vision and strategy, and provide oversight on our finances and governance. Meet our board.

Our team

Led by executive director Patricia Byrne, our staff team is passionate about making the law accessible and understandable by the public. Meet our team.

Patricia Byrne

Patricia is a lawyer with 25+ years of experience in senior roles in public and professional legal education in Toronto and Vancouver. Prior to these roles, Patricia was a practicing business lawyer. As executive director of People’s Law School, Patricia's priority is to use her legal and business management skills to guide the society toward fulfilling its mission and long-term strategic goals.

Our funders

We are grateful for the generosity of our funders who support us and our key initiatives that advance access to justice for British Columbians. Thanks to our funders.

Our history

Founded in 1972 by a committed group of UBC law students, People's Law School was the first organization in Canada dedicated exclusively to educating the public about the law. Learn more about our history.