Community Legal Assistance Society

Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS) is a non-profit legal aid organization founded in 1971. CLAS was the province's first community-based legal aid office. Our office's structure reflects a nearly 50-year commitment from the community and private bars to provide marginalized and discriminated-against individuals with legal aid. We have gained national recognition as a non-profit law firm, specializing in housing, income security, and workers' rights. CLAS is made up of many projects and initiatives that form an umbrella organization. We have helped thousands of people through our case work and launched hundreds of systemic and test cases at all levels of the court, including the Supreme Court of Canada. In the areas of practice where we are licensed to represent consumers, our organization has been reported hundreds of times. Our commitment is to the British Columbia citizens who are discriminated against or marginalized.

The CLAS receives rave reviews, many are thanking them for their commitment to justice and equity. Several people appreciate their friendly, supportive atmosphere and say that they are effective at providing legal advice and assistance. A former employee takes time from their day to speak about everything they learned during their tenure, crediting the group with teaching them a lot about residential tenancy law and helping them gain new knowledge and perspectives on matters. One thing everyone agrees on is that the group is doing an excellent job assisting people who need help in a way that is kind and gloriously organized. Because of this, CLAS provides vital work and serves as a conduit for their community, earning very high marks from some of their clients.