Paralegal

In this program students acquire an understanding of the general principles of law, and gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience in ethics and a small business practice. Taking the program prepares students to apply to become a licensed paralegal in accordance with the requirements of the Law Society Act. A licensed paralegal may be self–employed, offering fee for service legal assistance, without the supervision of a lawyer, or may be a salaried employee in various legal environments.

What You’ll Learn

• Utilize the structures, processes, and jurisdictional authority of courts and administrative tribunals to successfully resolve disputes and appeals within the legal system.
• Assess situations to ensure adherence to the established principles of ethics and codes of conduct to develop professional competence.
• Select, evaluate and use effective advocacy techniques, including oral and written legal communications.
• Employ effective human relations, interpersonal, and intervention strategies to assist in resolving conflicts.
• Research, analyze and interpret legislation and examine judicial interpretation of legislation, and produce proper citations of provincial and federal statutes, regulations, and other legal resources.
• Develop a coherent case management strategy and execute it effectively to benefit clients.
• Collect, analyze and synthesize research for the purposes of legal drafting and representation.
• Identify and work within the limits of permitted practice and articulate limitations on representation for agents and paralegals.
• Utilize information technology resources and current industry computer software.
• Employ environmentally sustainable practices within the profession.
• Examine the personal characteristics and circumstances associated with entrepreneurial success, from the perspective of a paralegal providing legal services to a client or a paralegal employee providing legal services within a law firm.