What does a Paralegal in Ontario Do?
- pmkarimalis
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
Navigating the legal system can be complex and costly. Many people assume that only lawyers can provide legal help, but in Ontario, paralegals play a vital role in offering affordable accessible legal services. Understanding what paralegals can do helps individuals and businesses make informed decisions about where to seek legal assistance. This post explains the range of legal services paralegals in Ontario are authorized to provide, highlighting their importance in the legal landscape.
Who Are Paralegals in Ontario?
Paralegals are licensed legal professionals regulated by the Law Society of Ontario. Unlike lawyers, paralegals focus on specific areas of law and provide services directly to the public without the need for lawyer supervision. They complete specialized education and pass licensing exams to ensure they meet professional standards. They also carry insurance.
Paralegals offer a more affordable option for many legal matters. Their role is to help clients understand their rights, prepare legal documents, and represent them in certain legal settings.
Legal Areas Paralegals Can Handle
Paralegals in Ontario have a defined scope of practice. They can provide legal services in several areas, including but not limited to:
*Small Claims Court
Paralegals can represent clients in Small Claims Court, which handles civil disputes involving claims up to $50,000. This includes cases such as:
Contract disputes
Property damage claims
Unpaid wages or debts
Unpaid debts awarded by the Landlord and Tenant Board
They can prepare court documents, advise clients on procedures, and advocate on their behalf during Small Claims Court hearings and trials.
*Traffic and Provincial Offences
Paralegals can represent clients in matters related to traffic tickets and provincial offences. This includes:
Challenging speeding tickets, careless driving
Defending against parking violations
Handling offences under provincial laws such as the Liquor Licence Act, Ontario Building Code, Animal Control Act, Municipal by-laws including Property Standards violations, zoning infractions, and more
They can negotiate with prosecutors, represent clients at trials, and help with appeals.
*Landlord and Tenant Board
Paralegals assist clients with disputes involving rental agreements. They can represent landlords or tenants in hearings before the Landlord and Tenant Board, including issues like:
Eviction notices
Rent disputes
Maintenance and repair problems
They help prepare applications, gather evidence, and represent clients at hearings.
*Immigration and Refugee Law (Limited)
Paralegals represent clients on matters before the Immigration and Refuge Board (IRB). However, their scope of practice is limited in this area of law. Much legal work in immigration law is only permitted to be performed by lawyers.
Paralegals also advocate: before the Animal Control Board, Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT), Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB), Social Benefits Tribunal (SBT) and many others.
Other Legal Services
Paralegals can, if appointed by Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General:
Commission Sworn Oaths and Affidavits
Notarize documents
Negotiate between parties to a legal proceeding within their regulated scope of practice
What Paralegals Cannot Do
It is important to know the limits of paralegals’ authority. They cannot:
Represent clients in criminal court for non-summary conviction charges (i.e.more serious criminal offences) where the sentence may be greater than 6 months imprisonment and/or involve a fine of more than $5,000.
Provide legal services outside their regulated scope
Give legal advice on corporate, estate or real estate law, without the supervision of a lawyer.
Some paralegals are now licensed to act in limited areas of family law
Benefits of Using a Paralegal
Choosing a paralegal can offer several advantages:
Cost-effective: Paralegal fees are generally lower than lawyer fees, making legal help more affordable.
Accessible: Paralegals often provide quicker appointments and more direct communication.
Knowledge: Because they focus on specific legal areas, they develop a strong foundation of knowledge and experience in these areas.
Regulated and insured professionals: Paralegals must follow strict ethical rules and are accountable to the Law Society of Ontario.
How to Find a Licensed Paralegal in Ontario
To ensure you work with a qualified professional, verify that the paralegal is licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. You can search the Law Society’s online directory https://lso.ca/public-resources/finding-a-lawyer-or-paralegal/lawyer-and-paralegal-directory?op=1 to confirm their status. Licensed paralegals must complete ongoing education and adhere to professional standards.
To find a paralegal or lawyer, you can phone the Law Society Referral Service directly at 1-855-947-5255 or 416-947-5255 (within the GTA), Monday - Friday, between 9 am - 5 pm or visit https://lsrs.lso.ca/lsrs/welcome
When choosing a paralegal, consider:
Their experience in the specific legal area you need help with
Clear communication about fees and services. Ask about block fees in place of larger upfront retainer fees for full service
Positive client reviews or referrals
What to Expect When Working with a Paralegal
When you hire a paralegal, they will:
Assess your legal issue and explain your options
Help prepare necessary documents and forms
Represent you in hearings or negotiations within their scope
Keep you informed throughout the process
Paralegals work closely with clients to provide clear, practical advice and support.
Final Thoughts on Paralegal Legal Services in Ontario
Paralegals in Ontario provide valuable legal services that increase access to justice for many people. They handle a range of legal matters, especially in Small Claims Court, traffic offences, and landlord-tenant disputes. Understanding their role helps you decide when to seek their help and when a lawyer is necessary.
If you face a legal issue within a paralegal’s scope, consulting one can save time and money while ensuring you receive professional guidance. Discuss fees upfront to make the best choice for your situation.
Legal matters can be stressful, but knowing your options makes a difference. Consider reaching out to a licensed paralegal for help with eligible legal issues in Ontario.
Paralegal services in the area of Landlord and Tenant law are offered by paralegal-on-broadview. Office is in East York, but paralegal services are provided across Ontario.
