What Can a Paralegal Do For You? 

If you're facing a legal issue in Ontario that feels overwhelming — a traffic ticket threatening your licence, a landlord refusing repairs, a small debt someone won't pay, or a dispute that could land in Small Claims Court — a licensed paralegal can step in and handle it professionally, affordably, and effectively.

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We don't do everything lawyers do, and we're not meant to. But in the areas we're authorized to practice, we deliver full legal services: advice, document preparation, negotiation, mediation, and courtroom representation. The Law Society of Ontario sets strict boundaries so you know exactly what you're getting — no guesswork, no overreach.

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Here’s a clear breakdown of what licensed paralegals in Ontario can actually do for you, with real-world examples:

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1. Traffic Tickets & Provincial Offences

• Fight speeding, careless driving, stunt driving, red-light camera, or distracted driving tickets.

• Represent you at trial to try to reduce fines, avoid demerit points, keep insurance rates from spiking, or save your licence.

• Handle bylaw charges (noise, property standards, animal control) and other minor provincial offences.

• Real benefit: Many clients come to me facing hundreds or thousands in fines plus licence suspension. A good defence often cuts the penalty dramatically — or gets it withdrawn entirely.
   

2. Small Claims Court (up to $50,000)

• Sue or defend claims for unpaid debts, broken contracts, faulty services, property damage, or wrongful dismissal (limited amounts).

• Draft and file claims/defences, prepare evidence, negotiate settlements, and represent you at settlement conferences and trials.

• Real benefit: Small Claims is designed for regular people, not corporations with deep pockets. A paralegal levels the playing field so you don't get steamrolled by someone else's lawyer.
   

3. Landlord and Tenant Board Matters

• Represent tenants facing eviction (N4, N5, N12, etc.) or landlords pursuing rent arrears, damage, or termination.

• Handle rent increase disputes, maintenance/repair issues, illegal entries, harassment claims, or applications for above-guideline increases.

• Appear at hearings, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your position.

• Real benefit: LTB hearings move fast and can feel stacked against non-lawyers. Having someone who knows the Residential Tenancies Act inside-out can make a significant difference when in front of this tribunal. 
   

4. Other Administrative Tribunals & Summary Criminal Charges

• Licence Appeal Tribunal (driving-related suspensions, medical fitness challenges).

• Human Rights Tribunal (discrimination complaints).

• Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIB claims).

• Certain summary conviction criminal matters in provincial court (e.g., shoplifting under $5,000, simple assault).

• Real benefit: These tribunals are technical and procedural. A paralegal who specializes here knows the rules, deadlines, and how adjudicators think — saving you months of stress and potential lost benefits.

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5. Mediation Services

• Paralegals are permitted to act as mediators 

• Mediation is often a faster and cheaper alternative to court and tribunal proceedings 

 

How We Work for You
 

• Initial consultation — We review your situation, explain your options, and tell you honestly if it's in our scope (and if not, who you should see instead).

• Flat fees or reasonable hourly rates — No surprise bills. 

• Straightforward communication — Plain language, quick responses, no legalese unless necessary.

• Full representation — From first call to final resolution, you're not left figuring out court forms or procedures alone.
   

Bottom line: If your problem falls in our authorized areas, a licensed paralegal gives you regulated, experienced advocacy at a price that makes sense for most Ontarians. You get the same professional standards as a lawyer — competence, confidentiality, honesty — but tailored to the everyday legal issues that hit hardest: your driving record, your home, your wallet.