Canada's mentoring program for in-house lawyers

Two ways to participate

How matching works

Every match is made by hand — not by an algorithm or a directory you browse yourself, but by a program lead who reviews your application and makes a considered judgment.

Designed specifically for the Canadian in-house context, the program reflects the realities of in-house roles across sectors, career paths, and regions.

Our Mentoring Program Manager is a Certified Career Strategist and practicing lawyer who works exclusively with legal professionals. She brings a deep understanding of the in-house landscape and what makes a mentoring relationship effective.

Each match is made with attention to sector and industry, career stage and goals, background and lived experience, and time zone — so meetings are practical to schedule across Canada.

The program is structured but mentee-led. Mentees set the agenda and schedule meetings, while mentors provide guidance, perspective, and honest feedback.

Apply any time. Matches are made four times a year: January, April, July, and October.

How the program works

1. Apply: Complete a short intake form about your background, goals, and preferences. Applications are accepted year-round.

2. Get matched: The Mentoring Program Manager reviews your application personally and makes your match. Matching happens four times a year.

3. Build the relationship: The relationship is mentee-led. Mentees set the agenda and schedule meetings. Mentors provide guidance, perspective, and honest feedback. Both of you are expected to keep mentoring conversations confidential.

4. Meet regularly over six months: Ideally meet once per month. In person or virtually — whatever works for both of you.

What participants say

"Since the beginning, my mentor has been incredibly available and helpful in providing resources, insights, and ideas for my professional situation and career. They have gone above and beyond the program requirements to help me. I am glad that I decided to participate in the program."

"I was able to have a video chat with my mentor last week, which was fantastic. They have great questions for me to work through, and really understood the position/stage of my career I'm at and what I'm looking to achieve."

"I'm very grateful for my mentor match! They have really interesting experience that goes straight to the topics I was hoping to work through. Thank you for connecting us!"

Frequently asked questions

• Who can apply as a mentee? You must currently be working in an in-house role. The program is not open to law students. Membership in CBA In-House Lawyers is required.
   
• Who can apply as a mentor? Any CBA In-House member with in-house experience is welcome to apply. You don't need to be at a highly senior level — a few years of experience is enough to meaningfully support someone earlier in their career.
   
• What's the time commitment? One meeting per month over six months, typically about an hour each time. The exact schedule is up to each pair.
   
• Is there a cohort size limit or application deadline? No limit, no deadline. Apply at any time and you'll be included in the next matching cycle.
   
• Is this a job placement program? No. The program is designed to help you succeed in your current in-house role, building skills, confidence, and clarity. 
   
• Are CPD hours available? Participation may be eligible for CPD hours depending on your law society and the nature of your mentoring activities. Check with your law society for details. 
   
• Can we meet in person? Yes. Matches are made across Canada with attention to time zone, but the format — in person or virtual — is entirely up to you and your match.
   

Questions?

Contact us at mentoring@cbainhouse.org.