The Law Foundation of Ontario was established in 1974 under the Law Society Act. The Foundation receives and uses the interest on lawyers’ and paralegals’ mixed trust accounts to support legal education, legal research, legal aid, and law libraries in Ontario. We do this through grantmaking to nonprofits and providing funds to Legal Aid Ontario.
A priority for the Foundation is to pay particular attention to groups who have experienced injustice or inequity – past or current – and those who have experienced exclusion or barriers in society.
The Foundation also administers the Class Proceedings Fund, which provides cost assistance in class actions. The Class Proceedings Committee is responsible for deciding who will receive funding.
Putting people at the heart of justice.
Access to justice exists when the public can understand, use, and afford information and services to prevent and resolve their legal disputes and to achieve just outcomes without delay.
Our people
Meet our dedicated team of Board of Trustees, Class Proceedings Committee, and staff members.
Strategic plan
As we begin our 50th anniversary year, we are excited to share Growing Possibilities, our 2024-2029 strategic plan.
Annual reports
The Law Foundation of Ontario annual report provides an overview of the year’s activities and it is accompanied by audited financial statements.
What's new
$45.5M in funding to Ontario’s leading access to justice organizations
The Foundation approved new 3-year Catalyst grants totaling $45.5M for the program’s current cohort of 25 organizations.
In memory of Wendy Earle
We’re saddened by the passing of Wendy J. Earle. Wendy was a remarkable class actions advocate and leader on the Class Proceedings Committee for 17 years.
2025 Catalyst Call for Applications
Call for applications information and application form to apply to the 2025 Catalyst Call for Applications
Deadline: February 28, 2025