Paralegal (PLE)

This two-year diploma program prepares you to become a licensed paralegal in accordance with the requirements of the Law Society Act. As a licensed paralegal, you may act in a self–employed capacity and offer specified legal services directly to the public for a fee without the supervision of a lawyer, or you may be a salaried employee in various legal environments.

In this program, you will acquire an understanding of the general principles of law and receive theoretical and practical training in specific legal subjects, legal ethics and small business practice.

Successful completion of this program qualifies you to write the Law Society of Ontario licensing examination, a requirement if you wish to practise as a paralegal in Ontario.

Your fluency in English is critical for your success and there is a strong focus on effective communication skills, both verbal and written, from the beginning of your program to graduation.

• Written and verbal communication

• Drafting legal documents

• Advocacy, including examination, cross-examination, submission of arguments 

• Legal research and writing

• Ability to analyze and apply legislation to real-life situations

• Negotiation and conflict resolution 

Having met all the necessary academic requirements, you will have the opportunity to participate in a four week unpaid field placement at the end of final examinations in fourth semester. With the support and assistance of the school’s faculty and staff, you will play an active role in securing your placement. Those wishing to be placed in a court or other government setting will have to provide a police clearance certificate.

As a graduate of this program, you will be able to pursue your paralegal licence and operate your own paralegal practice. You may also explore career opportunities within:

• Paralegal firms
• Law firms
• Legal clinics
  
• Legal departments within government offices

Upon successful completion of all the elements of Alternative Dispute Resolution, including full attendance, you will receive an Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate from Seneca School of Legal, Public and Office Administration. 

This program has been accredited by the Law Society of Ontario. 

To obtain a paralegal licence, you will have to be:

• A graduate from an accredited program

• Pass a licensing examination, and 

• Be of good character

For more information visit the law Society website. 

Paralegal application and licensing fees are not included in any fee schedule quoted by Seneca College.