Expanding Access to Justice in Manitoba

The L. Kerry Vickar Business Law Clinic and Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts are operating at full speed, with a record seven law students hired to provide pro bono legal services throughout the summer of 2025 to clients anywhere in Manitoba with internet access.

Meet the Summer Team

This summer’s cohort of dedicated law students brings diverse academic backgrounds and professional experiences to the Clinics, enhancing their ability to assist clients effectively.

Rachel Buchwald (2L) BHSt

Rachel Buchwald (2L) BHSt

Rachael is a law student heading into her second-year at the University of Manitoba, holding a Bachelor of Health Studies (Distinction) with a concentration in Health Policy, Program Planning, and Evaluation. She has a growing interest in business law and is enthusiastic about contributing to an organization that supports and strengthens the Manitoba business community. Rachael has a background in the performing arts and brings extensive experience engaging with local non-profit arts organizations, which she looks forward to drawing upon in her work with the Clinic this summer.

Reece Cymbalisty (2L) BSc

Reece Cymbalisty (2L) BSc

Reece Cymbalisty began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of Calgary before pursuing legal studies at the University of Manitoba. With extensive experience in the energy sector at a leading oil and gas company, Reece brings a unique combination of technical expertise and legal knowledge to the clinic. He is passionate about intellectual property law and emerging technologies and eager to help entrepreneurs protect and leverage their innovations.

“Having led projects implementing new automated drilling technology across Western Canada, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the intersection of technology and law. I’m excited to apply my technical background and legal education to help local businesses navigate intellectual property challenges and contribute to Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem,” says Reece.

Meagan Gillis (2L), B.Comm

Meagan Gillis (2L), B.Comm

Meagan holds a Bachelor of Commerce from UBC’s Sauder School of Business and is eager to support the internal operations of the clinics having completed her first year of law school.

Cole Hutchison (2L)  B.Comm (Hons)

Cole Hutchison (2L)  B.Comm (Hons)

Interested in corporate law, Cole brings his finance background and leadership experience as Vice President of the Student Business Law Group to his work in the Clinics, ensuring clients receive practical, hands-on legal support.

Lee Margolis (2L) B.Comm (Hons)

Lee Margolis (2L) B.Comm (Hons)

Prior to attending Robson Hall, Lee completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) at the Asper School of Business, double majoring in Finance and Marketing. He is excited to work with clients of the L. Kerry Vickar Clinic to help them overcoming legal obstacles this summer.

Donald Plant (2L), BA

Donald Plant (2L), BA

Prior to attending law school, Donald completed a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in Political Science at the University of Manitoba, before temporarily working in government. With a strong passion for both the business and arts sectors within the province, he is driven and excited to provide legal assistance to help Manitobans thrive.

“Manitoba is home to a vibrant community of incredible entrepreneurs and artists. Both the Business Law Clinic and the Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts provide a unique opportunity for these entrepreneurs and artists to receive legal services and advice which may otherwise be unavailable due to certain barriers. I am looking forward to promoting further awareness of both clinics, developing my skills, while also helping various businesses and artists within the province to succeed,” says Donald. 

Emily Trottier (2L) BA

Emily Trottier (2L) BA

Emily is a second-year law student at the University of Manitoba. Prior to law school, Emily completed a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Criminology and a minor in Women and Gender Studies, and alsoworked for the Government of Manitoba’s Public Service Commission. With her background working in the community, Emily is excited to assist artists, non-profits, and entrepreneurs. 

Supporting Manitoba’s Entrepreneurial and Creative Sectors

The Clinics continue to aim to make legal services more accessible, particularly for entrepreneurs, small businesses, start-ups, innovators and family businesses, non-profits, charities, artists, art, culture, and community organizations who do not have a lawyer and cannot afford legal assistance, navigate complex legal challenges.

At the same time. law students gain valuable practical experience in various areas of the law, including corporate, commercial, non-profit, and intellectual property working directly with clients under the supervision of experienced lawyers.

This aligns with the Faculty of Law’s goal of expanding access to justice programs so that all Manitobans can access quality legal help regardless of their socio-economic status.

The Clinics’ summer operations are made possible through generous support from The Marcel A. Desautels Centre for Private Enterprise and Law, as well as the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada IP Clinics Program, and the Manitoba Law Foundation.

Submitted by the L. Kerry Vickar Business Law Clinic and Manitoba Legal Clinic for the Arts.