Paralegal

Program Objective

The objective of this program is to provide the student with “hands-on” training in the key areas of paralegal work.  The practical, rather than the theoretical, is stressed.  The successful graduate will have the necessary skills to enter into any Tribunal, Small Claims Court or Traffic Court, and be able to deal with every eventuality that may arise.

Accreditation

The Paralegal program of Algonquin Careers Academy, Ottawa and Mississauga, is accredited by The Law Society of Upper Canada.

Becoming a Licensed Paralegal in the Province of Ontario

Paralegal has become a regulated profession in Ontario as of May 1, 2007. To legally practice as an independent paralegal in Ontario, a person must be licensed by the Law Society of Upper Canada (“the Law Society”).

To obtain a license, a person must graduate from a program accredited by the Law Society, pass a licensing examination and be of good character.

The paralegal program at Algonquin Careers Academy is accredited by the Law Society.

For more information about the paralegal regulation and licensing requirements, please visit the Law Society’s website at www.lsuc.on.ca or call the Member Resource Centre at 416-947-3315 or 1-800-668-7380.  

Career Opportunities

The need for well-trained, competent legal professionals has never been greater.  Paralegals make up a group of affordable options to a public that can’t afford a lawyer in simple matters.

Paralegals may act independently in the representation of clients as Agents.  Paralegals may represent clients in small claims matters; landlord/tenant matters; matters before most federal and provincial agencies as well as tribunals, such as WSIB matters; pardons and name changes; and other minor civil matters.

Paralegals may also find employment in a wide variety of workplaces, including:  

• Government (Federal, Provincial, Municipal)
• Large Corporations.
• Self-Employed Paralegal
• Law and Paralegal Firms.
• Banks/Financial Institutions
• Insurance Companies
• Courts (Federal and Provincial)
• Private Title Search
• Legal Clinics
• Process Server
• Other Law-Related Occupations