Program Overview

Paralegal (Accelerated) (PLEA)

Overview

This is an accelerated version of our Paralegal program. To take advantage of this accelerated program option, prior education is required. If you do not have prior education, explore our Paralegal (PLE) program.

This program will prepare you to become a licensed paralegal in accordance with the requirements of the Law Society Act. As a licensed paralegal, you may act in a self–employed capacity and offer specified legal services directly to the public for a fee without the supervision of a lawyer, or you may be a salaried employee in various legal environments.

In this program, you will acquire an understanding of the general principles of law and receive theoretical and practical training in specific legal subjects, legal ethics and small business practice.

Successful completion of this program qualifies you to write the Law Society of Ontario licensing examination, a requirement if you wish to practise as a paralegal in Ontario.

Fluency in English is critical for your success in this program and the legal profession, and there is a strong focus on effective communication skills, both verbal and written, from the beginning of your program to graduation.

Skills

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

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 third 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

Start in | Location | Availability ---|---|--- Start in Sept. 2025 | Location Seneca@York | Availability Waitlist Start in May 2026 | Location Seneca@York | Availability Open

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.