What is a Paralegal?

In Ontario, the term "paralegal" means something specific and regulated — not the general assistant role you might see in other provinces or countries. 

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A licensed paralegal is an independent legal professional regulated by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), the same body that oversees lawyers. Licensed paralegals complete accredited education, pass a rigorous licensing examination, meet good character requirements, carry professional liability insurance, and adhere to strict rules of professional conduct. This framework is designed to ensure competent, ethical services while promoting access to justice for everyday Ontarians.

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Unlike unregulated paralegals elsewhere, Ontario paralegals are authorized to deliver specified legal services on their own — without needing lawyer supervision — in designated areas of law. Paralegals are not lawyers and cannot handle everything a lawyer can. Within their permitted scope, they can provide advice and representation, with regulatory accountability to the LSO.

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Authorized Scope of Practice

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The LSO clearly defines what licensed paralegals can do under By-Law 4 and related rules. This includes:

• Small Claims Court — Claims up to $50,000 (as of the October 2025 increase from $35,000). This covers disputes like unpaid debts, contract breaches, property damage, and consumer issues.

• Provincial Offences — Charges under Ontario statutes and municipal bylaws prosecuted under the Provincial Offences Act. (I do not take traffic matters.)

• Administrative Tribunals — Representation before bodies such as the Landlord and Tenant Board (evictions, rent disputes, maintenance issues), Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, Licence Appeal Tribunal, Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal, and similar forums.

• Summary Conviction Criminal Matters — Certain less serious offences in provincial court (e.g., theft under $5,000, mischief).

• Notary Public — Separately from the paralegal licence, I am appointed as a Notary Public in Ontario.

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In these areas, I can provide legal advice, prepare documents, negotiate resolutions, and appear as your representative at hearings, mediations, or trials. I focus on practical, efficient service in the courts and tribunals where most people encounter legal issues.

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Why Independent Paralegals Matter

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Ontario established this regulated paralegal profession to bridge a real gap: full legal services were often too expensive or inaccessible for routine matters like small claims, bylaw charges or landlord-tenant disputes. By licensing paralegals independently, the system makes justice more affordable and approachable without compromising quality or protection. Paralegals focus on these specific procedures, usually at lower rates, while following professional conduct rules on competence, honesty, confidentiality and the public interest.

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This isn't about replacing lawyers; it's about matching the right professional to the right problem. For complex litigation, corporate work, serious criminal defence, or contested family matters, a lawyer is essential. But for the everyday legal challenges many Ontarians face, a licensed paralegal can provide regulated, affordable representation suited to those needs.

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To confirm any paralegal's status and good standing, the public can search the LSO Lawyer and Paralegal Directory — it's free, online, and shows practising status, any restrictions, or history. 

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If you're wondering whether your situation falls within a paralegal's scope — or just want clear answers on next steps — contact Simon Paralegal for a consultation. Just straightforward guidance on how this works in practice.