Paralegal

The Paralegal Ontario College Graduate Certificate program prepares you to apply to the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) to become a licensed paralegal. This program is offered in three consecutive semesters followed by a mandatory 120-hour field placement which gives you the opportunity to practise your skills and apply your knowledge to a real or simulated work environment.

This program is accredited by the LSO. It prepares you for a career in which you provide legal services to the public in specified areas of practice. Learn in a hands-on environment, acquiring practical skills from experienced and dedicated faculty.

Study areas of law that are relevant to the type of work a licensed paralegal can perform, as governed by the LSO. You learn about case management and trial preparation in areas such as: small claims court proceedings, provincial offences and summary conviction matters and proceedings before administrative tribunals.

You’ll complete hands-on activities, including participating in mock trials. Learn about ethics, professional responsibility and the requirements of running a legal services firm.

What You’ll Learn

• Work within areas of permitted practice and articulate limitations on representation for paralegals.
• Develop and assess strategies which adhere to the professional and ethical requirements of the Paralegal Rules of Conduct.
• Research, analyze, interpret and apply the provisions of legislation and case law to client situations using proper legal citation methods.
• Conduct trial and tribunal advocacy in accordance with the permitted scope of practice of a paralegal by utilizing the applicable structure, process, and jurisdictional authority of courts and administrative tribunals.
• Select and employ effective human relations, interpersonal, and intervention strategies to assist in resolving conflicts.
• Develop a coherent case management strategy and execute it effectively.
• Select and utilize information technology resources and current industry computer software.
• Communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing, using accurate legal terminology.
• Create legal documents and correspondence required for use by clients and on behalf of clients.
• Investigate and utilize paralegal business practices competently and effectively.
• Develop time management and organizational skills to meet the timelines and limitation periods within a legal environment.
• Identify and apply discipline specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.