This program is offered in person. Students are required to come on campus to attend classes.
Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.
Paralegals are unique to Ontario, providing specified legal services directly to the public for a fee without the supervision of a lawyer. This two-year diploma program prepares you to write the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) licensing examination and become a licensed paralegal in the province, in accordance with the requirements of the Law Society Act. Your learning will focus on both legal ethics and small-business practice so that you’ll be prepared to work in a law or paralegal firm, in a government setting or as a self-employed professional.
Your fluency in English is critical for your success and there is a strong focus on effective communication skills, both verbal and written, throughout the program.
Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:
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:
Upon successful completion of all the elements of Alternative Dispute Resolution, including full attendance, you will receive an Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate.
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 of Ontario.
Paralegal application and licensing fees are not included in any fee schedule quoted by Seneca Polytechnic.
Graduate, Paralegal (Accelerated)
“My experience at Seneca taught me to advocate for the rights of others and prepared me for my career as a lawyer. I was able to build on my professional skills with the support of my professors, who were attentive and empathetic. The campus environment was also remarkable – students have access to everything from research labs to academic advising.”
Graduate, Paralegal
"Growing up in a marginalized community I saw first-hand the profound effects of police misconduct, substance abuse, and gang violence in the community. I am driven by a strong desire to aid the vulnerable. As a single mother of two, I chose Seneca for its flexible class schedule that accommodated my personal life."
