The Paralegal program at Algonquin College is accredited by the Law Society of Upper Canada, and prepares graduates to provide legal services under the guidelines of a licensed paralegal. In the final semester, students gain practical experience through a mandatory field placement.
Our Program
This two-year Ontario College Diploma program, accredited by the Law Society of Upper Canada, prepares graduates to apply to the Law Society of Upper Canada to become licensed paralegals. Paralegals are non-lawyers providing legal services in specified areas of practice to the public for a fee. The type of work that a licensed paralegal can perform is limited by the Law Society and this program is restricted to those areas of law.
Students receive training in case management and trial preparation in areas, such as small claims court proceedings, provincial offences and summary conviction cases, provincial administrative tribunals, including landlord and tenant tribunals, and workplace, health and safety issues. The curriculum also covers ethics and professional responsibility issues and the requirements of running a business and reporting to clients. In the final level, students participate in a mandatory field placement which occurs at the end of the course work portion of the term. The final level is 19 weeks in duration with students spending the first 15 weeks completing their courses and the balance of four weeks in an unpaid, mandatory placement enviroment.
Recent graduates of the Law Clerk program may apply for Advanced Standing toward the Paralegal, Ontario College Diploma. Please note that the space available for Advanced Standing students is limited.
Students seeking exemptions or Advanced Standing for courses in the program should consult with the coordinator of the program prior to taking the course to determine whether the course content of the proposed substitute matches the course outcomes of the course in the program of study. While courses may have similar titles it is not to be assumed that credit is granted. Course outlines, as well as course descriptions need to be assessed to determine transferability of credit. A minimum grade requirement is applicable.
In order to become a licensed paralegal, the individual must have graduated from an accredited Paralegal program, pass a licensing examination, and be of good character. For detailed information on the requirements for becoming a licensed paralegal, see the Law Society of Upper Canada website at www.lsuc.on.ca.
This program is part of Algonquin's mobile learning initiative. All students entering into the program are expected to have and use a laptop or mobile computing device that meets or exceeds the recommended hardware requirements as designated by the program. Students in mobile learning programs will use their devices to enhance their learning experience, obtain and work with course materials, participate in collaborative and mlearning environments and become skilled, confident users of the technologies used within an educational environment and workplace. Hardware and software specifications are outlined at http://mlearning.algonquincollege.com . Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin's New Technology Store at educational rates.
SUCCESS FACTORS:
This program is well-suited for students who:
Are flexible and can prioritize tasks. Have excellent oral and written communication skills. Are attentive to detail. Enjoy analyzing and solving problems. Have a high standard of ethics. Your Career
Graduates are prepared to apply for the paralegal licence and upon licensing by the Law Society to be self-employed or to work in a variety of employed positions in the areas of practice covered in the program. A licence is required to practise in the defined areas of paralegal practice. Students should be familiar with the requirements set by the Law Society of Upper Canada for licensing and practice as a paralegal.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of
instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab,
entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom
sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each
full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is
used to communicate important information about program or course
events.
Level: 01
Hours
ENL1813B
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
Communications I
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
45.0
LAW2201P
Participation in dispute resolution by parties in conflict is an alternative to the adversarial nature of litigation proceedings. Students examine the various alternatives available for the resolution of disputes including negotiation, mediation, fact finding, neutral evaluations, partnering, and an introduction to arbitration, through presentations and role play.
Dispute Resolution and Negotiation
Participation in dispute resolution by parties in conflict is an alternative to the adversarial nature of litigation proceedings. Students examine the various alternatives available for the resolution of disputes including negotiation, mediation, fact finding, neutral evaluations, partnering, and an introduction to arbitration, through presentations and role play.
45.0
LAW2211P
Students are introduced to concepts of personal property and develop an awareness of the concepts of ownership, bailment, gift and fixtures. Real property interests including interests in land, systems of land registration, mortgages and an introduction to intellectual property are included.
Property Relationships
Students are introduced to concepts of personal property and develop an awareness of the concepts of ownership, bailment, gift and fixtures. Real property interests including interests in land, systems of land registration, mortgages and an introduction to intellectual property are included.
45.0
LAW2224P
Students acquire an overview of the evolution and development of legal principles and their application in order to study specific areas of law effectively. An introduction to the court system, administrative regulatory bodies and the factors relevant to the development and implementation of laws, as well as the governance by the provincial law society is provided.
Introduction to Law in Society
Students acquire an overview of the evolution and development of legal principles and their application in order to study specific areas of law effectively. An introduction to the court system, administrative regulatory bodies and the factors relevant to the development and implementation of laws, as well as the governance by the provincial law society is provided.
45.0
LAW2245P
Effective preparation for court appearances, as well as providing advice to clients requires research of relevant law. Students learn to use traditional and electronic resources to locate primary sources of law. The court system, sources of law, citation rules and basic retrieval methods are introduced.
Legal Research I
Effective preparation for court appearances, as well as providing advice to clients requires research of relevant law. Students learn to use traditional and electronic resources to locate primary sources of law. The court system, sources of law, citation rules and basic retrieval methods are introduced.
30.0
LAW2258P
Students learn the essentials of the computer operating system, presentation and word processing software. A variety of documents relevant to the work of legal professionals are prepared using correct formatting and word processing techniques.
Legal Computer Applications
Students learn the essentials of the computer operating system, presentation and word processing software. A variety of documents relevant to the work of legal professionals are prepared using correct formatting and word processing techniques.
45.0
Level: 02
Hours
ACC2292P
Students become familiar with the recording of basic accounting transactions in a manual accounting system. Students also learn to set-up a reporting system for a law firm, as well as record transactions using PC Law software. Some basic skills using spreadsheet software are also covered during the course.
Legal Accounting
Students become familiar with the recording of basic accounting transactions in a manual accounting system. Students also learn to set-up a reporting system for a law firm, as well as record transactions using PC Law software. Some basic skills using spreadsheet software are also covered during the course.
45.0
LAW0009
The essentials of business law and organization including sole proprietorships, partnerships and corporations are covered. Students are also introduced to a variety of legislation relating to consumer law and consumer protection.
Business and Consumer Relationships
The essentials of business law and organization including sole proprietorships, partnerships and corporations are covered. Students are also introduced to a variety of legislation relating to consumer law and consumer protection.
30.0
LAW1706P
The study of the principles of tort and contract law provides a foundation for better understanding of a variety of specialized areas of law. Students learn the elements of tort and the concept of negligence. Principles of contract law and the essentials of drafting simple contracts are included.
Torts and Contracts
The study of the principles of tort and contract law provides a foundation for better understanding of a variety of specialized areas of law. Students learn the elements of tort and the concept of negligence. Principles of contract law and the essentials of drafting simple contracts are included.
45.0
LAW2204P
Implementation of a multitude of government policy initiatives and procedures have been delegated to a wide variety of administrative bodies. Legal principles related to the jurisdiction and operation of these tribunals, boards and agencies are introduced. Students learn the law and procedures applicable to appeals, judicial review and Charter claims related to these administrative activities.
Administrative Law
Implementation of a multitude of government policy initiatives and procedures have been delegated to a wide variety of administrative bodies. Legal principles related to the jurisdiction and operation of these tribunals, boards and agencies are introduced. Students learn the law and procedures applicable to appeals, judicial review and Charter claims related to these administrative activities.
45.0
LAW2231P
Students are introduced to the legislation and contracts which govern the landlord and tenant relationship, as well as the forms and procedures utilized to resolve disputes. The role and regulation by the provincial administrative tribunal is reviewed.
Landlord and Tenant
Students are introduced to the legislation and contracts which govern the landlord and tenant relationship, as well as the forms and procedures utilized to resolve disputes. The role and regulation by the provincial administrative tribunal is reviewed.
45.0
LAW2260P
Effective preparation for court appearances, as well as providing advice to clients requires research of relevant law. Students learn to use traditional and electronic resources to conduct research. Analysis of primary sources of law, use of secondary sources of law, briefing of cases and preparation of research memoranda are introduced.
Legal Research II
Effective preparation for court appearances, as well as providing advice to clients requires research of relevant law. Students learn to use traditional and electronic resources to conduct research. Analysis of primary sources of law, use of secondary sources of law, briefing of cases and preparation of research memoranda are introduced.
45.0
Choose one from equivalencies:
Hours
GED1302
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology.
General Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following four theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology.
45.0
Level: 03
Hours
ENL0043
Students learn to enhance their writing skills with an emphasis on communication in the legal environment. Students draft legal documents in plain language, compose legal correspondence, routine legal documents and edit standard precedents.
Communication/Writing
Students learn to enhance their writing skills with an emphasis on communication in the legal environment. Students draft legal documents in plain language, compose legal correspondence, routine legal documents and edit standard precedents.
45.0
LAW0010
Paralegals have an obligation to their clients and are accountable to the Law Society for their professional practice. Students develop an appreciation of the role of the paralegal and the application of the Paralegal Rules of Conduct. Ethics in professional and client relationships are reviewed.
Ethics and Professional Responsibility
Paralegals have an obligation to their clients and are accountable to the Law Society for their professional practice. Students develop an appreciation of the role of the paralegal and the application of the Paralegal Rules of Conduct. Ethics in professional and client relationships are reviewed.
45.0
LAW0011
Students learn the rules of evidence and their application in the litigation process. The nature of the adversarial process from commencement to conclusion is examined.
Evidence and the Litigation Process
Students learn the rules of evidence and their application in the litigation process. The nature of the adversarial process from commencement to conclusion is examined.
45.0
LAW0012
The representation of individuals involved in provincial offences or highway traffic proceedings is examined. Review of applicable provincial legislation is undertaken with emphasis on the procedural aspects of client representation.
Provincial Offences/Motor Vehicle Offences
The representation of individuals involved in provincial offences or highway traffic proceedings is examined. Review of applicable provincial legislation is undertaken with emphasis on the procedural aspects of client representation.
60.0
LAW0014
Students learn and demonstrate their knowledge of the principles of advocacy including case preparation and presentation. Students participate in mock proceedings incorporating all aspects of the trial and hearing process.
Advocacy for Paralegals
Students learn and demonstrate their knowledge of the principles of advocacy including case preparation and presentation. Students participate in mock proceedings incorporating all aspects of the trial and hearing process.
60.0
English General Education Elective: choose 1
Hours
ENL1725
Students are introduced to a wide range of Canadian Literature with the dual aim of exploring the theme of the Canadian identity while enhancing students' cultural and self-awareness. It explores the importance of writers' perceptions of the world, and how those perceptions affect contemporary Canadian society. Through assigned readings, discussion, presentations and essay writing, students investigate the role of the artist in defining and shaping society. Focus is placed on how Canadians see themselves and the challenge of defining identity in a multicultural society.
Popular Canadian Literature
Students are introduced to a wide range of Canadian Literature with the dual aim of exploring the theme of the Canadian identity while enhancing students' cultural and self-awareness. It explores the importance of writers' perceptions of the world, and how those perceptions affect contemporary Canadian society. Through assigned readings, discussion, presentations and essay writing, students investigate the role of the artist in defining and shaping society. Focus is placed on how Canadians see themselves and the challenge of defining identity in a multicultural society.
45.0
ENL1726
In this interactive, discussion-based course, students learn to analyze and critique art in the context of both theoretical principles and historical influences. Through an examination of past and present forms of traditional art (e.g., paintings, sculpture) and non-traditional art (e.g., graffiti, installation art, or body modification), students align individual perceptions with artistic works and consider the value of cultural and ethical boundaries on expression. To complete their experience, students create and annotate an outlet for their own artistic expression, using a medium of their choice.
Artistic Expression
In this interactive, discussion-based course, students learn to analyze and critique art in the context of both theoretical principles and historical influences. Through an examination of past and present forms of traditional art (e.g., paintings, sculpture) and non-traditional art (e.g., graffiti, installation art, or body modification), students align individual perceptions with artistic works and consider the value of cultural and ethical boundaries on expression. To complete their experience, students create and annotate an outlet for their own artistic expression, using a medium of their choice.
45.0
ENL1798
Critical thinking is a skill that helps us recognize how hidden assumptions, personal values and biases affect decision making. In this course, students learn how to identify false arguments and misleading arguments. They sharpen their own critical-thinking skills by analyzing the manipulative techniques used by some individuals, vested interest groups and the media. To provide a context for the skill, students trace the history of a social/political issue in Canadian society, document their research findings and present them.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is a skill that helps us recognize how hidden assumptions, personal values and biases affect decision making. In this course, students learn how to identify false arguments and misleading arguments. They sharpen their own critical-thinking skills by analyzing the manipulative techniques used by some individuals, vested interest groups and the media. To provide a context for the skill, students trace the history of a social/political issue in Canadian society, document their research findings and present them.
45.0
ENL1825
Students learn to analyze, practise and develop their interpersonal communication skills in all aspects of their lives. Topics include communication theory, self-awareness, personal understanding, perception, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening skills, assertiveness techniques and conflict resolution. Through lectures, practical application, journals, films, and discussions, students develop and enhance their communication skills.
Communication Dynamics
Students learn to analyze, practise and develop their interpersonal communication skills in all aspects of their lives. Topics include communication theory, self-awareness, personal understanding, perception, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening skills, assertiveness techniques and conflict resolution. Through lectures, practical application, journals, films, and discussions, students develop and enhance their communication skills.
45.0
ENL1829
Students explore the psychology and physiology of successful public speaking. Learning occurs in collaborative and individual settings allowing students to become more self-aware and confident. Through ongoing self-reflection, as well as examination of famous speeches, students gain an appreciation of powerful speaking techniques that express opinions clearly. A series of lectures, activities, and workshops allow students to value diverse views and discover how to constructively critique in a collegial manner. Students experiment and find their own unique public persona which is showcased in a final, formal speech on a theme demonstrating their personal growth.
The Power of Public Speaking
Students explore the psychology and physiology of successful public speaking. Learning occurs in collaborative and individual settings allowing students to become more self-aware and confident. Through ongoing self-reflection, as well as examination of famous speeches, students gain an appreciation of powerful speaking techniques that express opinions clearly. A series of lectures, activities, and workshops allow students to value diverse views and discover how to constructively critique in a collegial manner. Students experiment and find their own unique public persona which is showcased in a final, formal speech on a theme demonstrating their personal growth.
45.0
Level: 04
Hours
FLD0001
Students apply learned skills in field placement. The ability to apply academic knowledge and demonstrate professional skills in the workplace is assessed. Students who meet all necessary academic requirements benefit from opportunities to apply their knowledge in a workplace setting by participating in the 120 hours unpaid mandatory field placement at the end of the fourth level. Field placement is mandated by the Law Society of Upper Canada.
Field Placement/Practicum for Paralegals
Students apply learned skills in field placement. The ability to apply academic knowledge and demonstrate professional skills in the workplace is assessed. Students who meet all necessary academic requirements benefit from opportunities to apply their knowledge in a workplace setting by participating in the 120 hours unpaid mandatory field placement at the end of the fourth level. Field placement is mandated by the Law Society of Upper Canada.
120.0
LAW0013
General workplace legislation is examined . Students learn about employment standards, human rights, pay equity and labour legislation. Emphasis is placed on procedural and practical aspects of representing individuals involved in workplace disputes.
Principles of Employment Law
General workplace legislation is examined . Students learn about employment standards, human rights, pay equity and labour legislation. Emphasis is placed on procedural and practical aspects of representing individuals involved in workplace disputes.
45.0
LAW0016
Students learn procedures related to practice in the Small Claims Court. Jurisdiction and operation of the Court are examined. Applicable sections of the Rules of Civil Procedure, Small Claims Court Rules, and the Courts of Justice Act are introduced.
Small ClaiMS Court
Students learn procedures related to practice in the Small Claims Court. Jurisdiction and operation of the Court are examined. Applicable sections of the Rules of Civil Procedure, Small Claims Court Rules, and the Courts of Justice Act are introduced.
45.0
LAW0017
The Canadian criminal justice system is examined. A review of the Criminal Code and other federal criminal legislation is undertaken. Emphasis is placed on summary conviction offence proceedings. Students examine the procedural aspects of representation of individuals involved in such proceedings.
Criminal/Summary Conviction Procedure
The Canadian criminal justice system is examined. A review of the Criminal Code and other federal criminal legislation is undertaken. Emphasis is placed on summary conviction offence proceedings. Students examine the procedural aspects of representation of individuals involved in such proceedings.
45.0
LAW0018
Students review enabling legislation and the specifics of practice and procedure for a variety of tribunals within the scope of paralegal practice. The process of a tribunal hearing is introduced.
Tribunal Practice and Procedure
Students review enabling legislation and the specifics of practice and procedure for a variety of tribunals within the scope of paralegal practice. The process of a tribunal hearing is introduced.
45.0
LAW0019
Students participate in preparatory sessions with respect to the responsibilities and obligations related to the program's mandatory field placement. Students focus on communication skills, resume development and cover letters, effective work etiquette, professionalism, civility and ethics in these preparatory sessions.
Field Placement Prep for Paralegals
Students participate in preparatory sessions with respect to the responsibilities and obligations related to the program's mandatory field placement. Students focus on communication skills, resume development and cover letters, effective work etiquette, professionalism, civility and ethics in these preparatory sessions.
12.0
LAW0030
The representation of individuals involved in immigration law proceedings is examined. Review of the main areas of immigration law and policy as set out by Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada are undertaken. The tribunal process of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada and the hearing procedures for immigration appeals, removals and detention reviews are examined.
Immigration Law for Paralegals
The representation of individuals involved in immigration law proceedings is examined. Review of the main areas of immigration law and policy as set out by Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada are undertaken. The tribunal process of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada and the hearing procedures for immigration appeals, removals and detention reviews are examined.
45.0
MGT0062
Paralegals may operate a private practice and their success is dependent on effective business practices. Students explore the essential elements of operating a private practice. They learn about office systems, financial and insurance obligations, staff supervision and the principles of operating a small business.
Practice Management/Operating a Small Business
Paralegals may operate a private practice and their success is dependent on effective business practices. Students explore the essential elements of operating a private practice. They learn about office systems, financial and insurance obligations, staff supervision and the principles of operating a small business.
45.0
Choose one from equivalencies:
Hours
GED1302B
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following three theme requirements: Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology.
General Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following three theme requirements: Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology.
45.0
Fees & Expenses
Tuition Fees: $1,266.75 per term in Levels 01 and 02 and $1,260.69 per term in Levels 03 and 04.
Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *
Mobile Computing Fee: $150 per term. **
Student Activity/Sports Fee: $200.50 per term.
Student Commons/Auditorium Fee: $22 per term.
Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.
Health Service Fee: $20 per term.
Health Plan Fee: $117.02 paid once annually. ***
A $40 graduation fee is payable in the final term.
A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.
International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.
* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information, please visit our website at www.algonquincollege.com/its/support/IT-Fee/index-it-fee.htm
** The Mobile Computing Fee covers the costs associated with providing various services to students registered in a mandatory laptop programs.
*** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the request. This request will have to be made annually.
Books and supplies cost approximately $1,300 per year and can be purchased in the campus bookstore.
Admission Requirements
2013/2014
2012/2013
College Eligibility
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $40 (subject to change) will be charged. Program Eligibility English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent). Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
College Eligibility Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $40 (subject to change) will be charged. Program Eligibility English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent). Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Application Information
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at www.ontariocolleges.ca
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office AskUs@algonquincollege.com
Additional Information
Students should be aware that a criminal records check may be required for placement and employment purposes.
For more information, please contact Adriana Mello, Program Coordinator, at 613-727-4723 ext. 7170 or melloa@algonquincollege.com.
Every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy
of the information in this publication. The College reserves the
right to modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable, or
campus location at any time
This is a Mobile Learning Program.