Ontario Paralegal Services: What a Paralegal Can & Cannot Do
Ontario is the only Canadian province that regulates paralegals as independent legal professionals through the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). This gives Ontario residents access to high-quality, affordable legal representation that most other Canadians don't have.
Who Is a Licensed Paralegal?
A licensed paralegal in Ontario has completed an accredited college program in paralegal studies, passed the LSO licensing examination, obtained professional liability insurance, and been admitted to the LSO. They are regulated in the same way as lawyers — with obligations of competence, confidentiality, and loyalty to clients.
What Paralegals CAN Do in Ontario
| Area | Paralegal Scope |
|---|---|
| Small Claims Court | Full representation — plaintiff and defendant — for claims up to $35,000 |
| Provincial Offences (traffic tickets, HTA) | Full representation at Ontario Court of Justice — all POA matters |
| Landlord-Tenant Board (LTB) | Full representation for landlords and tenants |
| Human Rights Tribunal (HRTO) | Full representation for applicants and respondents |
| Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) | Full representation at WSIB and WSIAT |
| Social Benefits Tribunal (SBT) | Full representation — ODSP and OW appeals |
| Criminal Summary Conviction Offences | Indictable offences where the Crown proceeds summarily — Provincial Court |
| Immigration & Refugee Board (IRB) | Full representation if also registered as ICCRC/CICC member |
| Other Tribunals | Employment Insurance (SST), Consent & Capacity Board, Licence Appeal Tribunal |
What Paralegals CANNOT Do
- Practice family law (divorce, custody, property division) — these require a lawyer
- Handle real estate transactions (conveyancing) — lawyer required
- Draft wills or powers of attorney — lawyer required
- Represent clients in Superior Court or Court of Appeal
- Handle indictable criminal matters where the Crown proceeds by indictment
- Practice corporate/commercial law beyond basic business structures
- Handle estate administration and probate
Why Choose a Paralegal?
- Cost: Paralegal fees are typically 40–70% lower than lawyer fees for the same matter
- Specialization: Many paralegals focus exclusively on one area (e.g., LTB, traffic), giving deep expertise
- Accessibility: Paralegals often have faster availability and more flexible appointment times
- Same ethical obligations: Full LSO regulation means the same duties of competence and confidentiality as a lawyer
Fixed Fee vs. Hourly Billing
Most paralegals offer fixed-fee billing for defined matters — a flat rate for a traffic ticket defence, an LTB application, or a Small Claims trial. This provides cost certainty that hourly billing does not. Always confirm the fee structure in writing before retaining anyone.
Not sure if your matter is within paralegal scope? Ask us — no obligation.
Book a Free Consultation
PIPEDA-compliant