Our programs are specialized courses that build on the knowledge and skills already acquired within the workplace and not necessarily within the legal sector.
We do not offer degree courses. Our qualifications are Diplomas or Certificate levels.
Paralegals can specialize in one area of law, therefore, we do not insist that they cover a myriad of law subjects at once. We concentrate on the most popular law subjects enabling them to start their careers sooner. Should they wish, at a later stage, to expand their practise area, they can always add-on law subjects to their existing portfolio.
Paralegals are assistants to lawyers and they work under their supervision. The paralegal profession in Canada remains unregulated, therefore accreditation or licensing is not a requirement. One exception is within the province of Ontario, which grants Paralegals a licence to operate independently. All other provinces do not require Paralegals to become licensed but they must be able to show sufficient competency either from previous legal work experience or from having a Paralegal Diploma or Paralegal Certificate.
Paralegals are not required to cover all aspects of Law. They are not required to complete a law degree. They are employed to have specific legal knowledge in order to perform legal duties relating to legal research, court applications, client care, carry out legal searches and registrations, legal aid applications and so on. It is imperative that their studies include foundations of law and procedural law.
Although Paralegals are employed to provide lower operating legal costs, they are not being employed as a cheaper alternative to Barristers and Solicitors but their legal expertise in any subject they chose to specialize in, must be comprehensive.