JD Student Feedback and Grievance Pathways
At Jackman Law, we are committed to fostering a learning environment rooted in respect, equity, inclusion, and mutual trust. Every student deserves a safe and supportive educational experience. We encourage open communication and are dedicated to listening, offering guidance, and addressing concerns constructively.
Whether you have a suggestion to share, a concern about your learning environment, or need support with a complex situation, multiple avenues are available to assist you.
Where to Direct Your Inquiry
Students are welcome to reach out to any member of our administrative leadership. To ensure a prompt response, you may direct your inquiry to the office best aligned with your needs:
- Academic Programs & Standing: Connect with the Assistant Dean, Academic Program or Associate Dean, JD Program regarding grades, exams, academic accommodations, curriculum, and academic integrity.
- Equity & Classroom Climate: Connect with the Assistant Dean, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion regarding human rights concerns, discrimination, harassment, equity matters, or building a sense of belonging in the classroom.
- Student Life & Well-Being: Connect with the Assistant Dean, JD Program for general student support, accessibility coordination, interpersonal conflict, or experiential learning support.
- Overlapping Matters: If your concern spans multiple areas, feel free to contact any of these offices. Our leadership team will coordinate directly to ensure you are supported.
Pathways for Resolution
Pathway 1: Informal Support & Early Resolution
Most everyday feedback, concerns, and disclosures can be addressed collaboratively through discussion, advice, or referrals. Our goal is to resolve issues early, empathetically, and locally wherever possible. Where appropriate, staff can also help connect you with specialized campus resources, such as the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre.
Pathway 2: Faculty-Level Petition
If informal avenues do not resolve a matter, or if a concern warrants formal review within the law school, students can submit a written petition to the Associate Dean. A petition should outline the concern, any steps already taken, and the outcome you are seeking.
Pathway 3: Central University Processes
For complex matters involving potential policy breaches or formal institutional investigations, cases may be referred to or initiated through central University of Toronto processes.
Privacy & Confidentiality
We treat all feedback, disclosures, and petitions with care and discretion in accordance with applicable privacy legislation and University policies. Information is shared strictly on a need-to-know basis with those directly involved in supporting you or resolving the issue.
While staff maintain confidentiality to the greatest extent possible, absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed if there are safety risks, legal obligations, or formal administrative requirements.