A few years ago, when I went through my own legal troubles, I didn't even know what a paralegal was! I couldn't afford a lawyer's expensive hourly rate and I was afraid of reliving a traumatic experience to a complete stranger. Money was a barrier to access to justice just as much was my emotional state.
Paralegals increase access to justice by filling an important gap. Many people cannot afford a lawyer but also do not qualify for Legal Aid. The legal system is complex to navigate and it can be very stressful. When you are faced with the emotional impact of your case, the complexity of your matter can make the legal system even harder to navigate.
Paralegals can provide legal services related to issues in Provincial Offences Court, Small Claims Court, Tribunals and limited Summary Conviction Offences. There are limits to the scope of a paralegal's practice; these limits are to protect the public.
Paralegals are educated to provide legal services within their permitted scope. They must have an education from an institution authorized by the Law Society, they must complete a field placement, they must pass a licensing exam, and they must have professional liability insurance. Paralegals are regulated by the Law Society of Ontario, they have to abide by the Rules of Conduct, and continue their education.
To learn more about more about paralegals check out the Law Society of Ontario's website by clicking here.
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