Program Overview

Paralegal (PLE)

Overview

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.

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

Work Experience

Field Placement

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 the 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.

Program Availability

• Canadian Applicants
• International Applicants

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in person. Students are required to come on campus to attend classes.

Your Career

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:

• Paralegal firms
• Law firms
• Legal clinics
• Legal departments within government offices

Certifications

Upon successful completion of all the elements of Alternative Dispute Resolution, including full attendance, you will receive an Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate.

Professional Accreditation

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

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Experiential Learning

Graduate career-ready and world-ready. This program has a field placement to help you hone essential skills for the workplace.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.

Mock Courtroom

You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our Mock Courtroom, preparing you for your in-demand career.

What Our Graduates Say

Amanda Donato

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.”

Cassandra Harvey

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."