Paralegal

Program Overview

Begin your path to a career as a paralegal with the Paralegal Ontario College Graduate Certificate program. This program is designed to prepare you for applying to the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) to become a licensed paralegal. It is accredited by the LSO and focuses on providing legal services to the public in specific areas of practice. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to acquire practical skills from experienced faculty. You will engage in various study areas of law relevant to the work of a licensed paralegal, including case management and trial preparation.

Program Structure

The Paralegal program is structured over a 13-month period, consisting of three consecutive semesters, which spans 42 weeks. The program begins in either September or January and concludes in August or December, followed by a mandatory 240-hour field placement. Key features of the program structure include:

• Three consecutive semesters of coursework.
• A mandatory 240-hour unpaid field placement to gain practical experience.
• Hands-on activities, including mock trials and court visits.
• Focus on ethics, professional responsibility, and the operation of a legal services firm.

This comprehensive structure ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers as paralegals.

Featured Experiences

The Paralegal program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and practical application:

• Field Placement: A mandatory 240-hour field placement allows students to apply their knowledge in real or simulated work environments.
• Mock Trials: Students participate in mock trials to develop advocacy skills and understand courtroom procedures.
• Court Visits: Gain practical advocacy experience through visits to courts, enhancing understanding of legal processes.
• Hands-on Activities: Engage in various hands-on activities that simulate real-world legal scenarios.

These experiences are designed to provide students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the legal field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Paralegal program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada. Some potential job titles include:

• Licensed Paralegal: Provide legal services and representation in various legal matters.
• Legal Assistant: Support lawyers by preparing documents, conducting research, and managing case files.
• Court Agent: Represent clients in court proceedings and assist with legal documentation.
• Claims Analyst: Evaluate insurance claims and determine their validity based on legal standards.
• Grievance Adjudication Officer: Handle disputes and grievances within organizations, ensuring fair resolution.

With a license from the Law Society of Ontario, graduates can also work in various sectors, including private and public law departments, government agencies, and community legal clinics, or even establish their own legal services practice.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.