Paralegal

Access to justice requires well-trained and licensed paralegals to fill the growing demand for affordable services in the legal profession. Centennial College’s Paralegal program will prepare students to excel in the field through strong theoretical and practical courses.

The Law Society of Ontario accredits Centennial’s one-year (three-semester) undertaking. This graduate certificate program will make students eligible, upon successful completion of all requirements, to write the Law Society’s Paralegal licensing examination — enabling them to practice as a licensed paralegal in Ontario. Licensed paralegals may represent clients in areas such as summary conviction criminal offences, traffic violations, provincial and municipal offences, tribunals and the Ontario Small Claims Courts.

Throughout the studies in the Paralegal program, learners will gain solid knowledge of Canadian law, concentrating on subject areas within the permitted scope of paralegal practice. In addition to dedicated academic lectures, practice management and mock trials, there will be a two-day-per-week work placement in the third semester, providing hands-on training in established law and paralegal firms. Centennial’s experiential learning will exceed the requirements of the Law Society and assist in preparation to enter the field, not only with practice experience but also with the chance to network within the industry.

Centennial Paralegal graduates are well prepared to write the licensing examination and become an integral part of the legal system.

What You’ll Learn

• Utilize the applicable structure, process, and jurisdictional authority of courts and administrative tribunals to successfully resolve disputes and appeals within the legal system.
• Develop and assess strategies which adhere to established principles of ethics and codes of conduct, and enhancement of professional competence.
• Select, evaluate, and utilize effective advocacy techniques, including oral and written legal presentations, using accurate legal terminology.
• Employ effective human relations, interpersonal, and intervention strategies to assist in resolving conflicts.

Additional ancillary fees for career services, health and counselling, athletics, student ID cards, and more may apply.