Choosing a career as a paralegal in Ontario can be both rewarding and practical. Whether you’re looking to play a vital role in the legal field or aiming to provide essential legal services through your own practice without going the route of a lawyer, the paralegal profession offers a direct route into a variety of fulfilling legal careers.
In the following post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we’ve been asked about this profession and the route to becoming a paralegal in Ontario.
1. How long are paralegal courses in Ontario?
In Ontario, paralegal programs typically range from 12 to 24 months. The length of time it takes to complete the courses depends on whether you enroll full-time or part-time, but also the kind of educational institution you choose.
Public universities typically take the longest to complete the program – sometimes as much as three to four years! At career colleges like CTS Canadian Career College, however, you can complete a focused paralegal diploma in about a year, preparing you for the relevant licensing exam.
2. What is the fastest route to becoming a paralegal?
The quickest way to become a paralegal in Ontario is by enrolling in an accredited paralegal diploma program at a career college.
As we mentioned above, by choosing a full-time, condensed course, you can complete your education in about 12 months – including your field placement. Afterward, you’ll only need to pass the licensing exam to practice as a paralegal.
3. Are paralegals in demand in Ontario?
Yes! Paralegals are one of the most in-demand professions in law these days.
Much of the need for these professionals is tied to industry growth. As the population grows, so too does the demand for paralegals who can play a crucial role in providing affordable legal assistance in areas such as small claims court, traffic tickets, landlord-tenant disputes, and more.
With an increasing need for legal services, demand for qualified paralegals is expected to remain strong for some time to come.
4. Is becoming a paralegal a good career choice?
Becoming a paralegal can be an excellent career choice, especially if you’re looking for a rewarding role in the legal field without spending the additional years of study pursuing a full law degree.
In their daily duties, paralegals enjoy varied work, a respectable salary, and the opportunity to help people with legal matters. The flexibility to open your own practice or work in various legal settings also makes it an appealing option.
That said, paralegals tend to work in both interpersonal settings as well as behind the scenes doing research and paperwork. If you’re the kind of person who gets a thrill out of being organized as well as meeting new people, you should thrive.
5. Do I need a degree to become a paralegal?
While many universities offer degrees for this profession, ultimately, a degree is not needed to become a paralegal in Ontario.
The main criteria to be allowed to legally work is that you must first complete your studies through an accredited paralegal program. After earning your diploma or degree, you’ll then need to pass the licensing exam to become a licensed paralegal.
6. Is a paralegal diploma worth it?
A paralegal diploma is definitely worth it if you’re aiming to enter the legal field without committing to several years of law school.
The diploma equips you with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to handle a range of legal tasks. Most schools, such as CTS Canadian Career College, also require that you gain work experience before graduation by completing a work placement.
At the end of the day, with the ability to open your own practice or work under a law firm, the diploma provides flexibility and career opportunities.
7. What do paralegals do?
Unlike lawyers and what we often see in legal dramas or TV, paralegals do not argue or defend cases in the big courtrooms
Instead, paralegals in Ontario are licensed to provide legal services in specific areas, such as representing clients in small claims court, the handling of traffic violations, helping with landlord and tenant disputes, certifying documents, and offering legal advice on certain matters.
They can work independently at their own practices and offices, which is often the case, or under the supervision of a lawyer as part of their larger legal team. Many of our graduates, however, tend to be somewhat business minded and choose to run their own legal practice.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a paralegal in Ontario offers a clear, achievable path to a career in law without the lengthy commitment of a law degree. With paralegals in high demand and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, this could be the right choice for you!
Ready to take the next step? Explore the paralegal diploma program at CTS Canadian Career College and fast-track your way into the legal field. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more and start your journey toward becoming a paralegal in Ontario.