Law Clerk

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In Quebec? Adds 2 screens at the end of this part.

Education · 1 of 4

The path

A short college program, a placement, then learn the firm's systems. Quebec's program is longer, at 3 years, and tapping Quebec route adds it.

  1. 1

    High school diploma

    Grade 12

    Any stream. English marks and typing speed matter.

  2. 2

    College diploma

    1 to 2 years

    Law clerk (2 years) or legal administrative assistant (1 year). Litigation, real estate, corporate, family and wills procedures, plus legal software.

  3. 3

    Placement

    4 to 8 weeks

    Most programs end with a few weeks in a law office. It is your first reference.

  4. 4

    First job

    1 to 2 years

    Junior clerk or assistant. You learn one practice area and the firm's systems.

  5. 5

    Optional certification

    3 years or more

    In Ontario, the Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario runs four voluntary exams. Pass all four and work 3 years as a clerk and you can join as an associate member. Some firms want it for senior roles.