Education · 1 of 4
The path
A short college program, then learn the firm's way of doing things.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
English, keyboarding and business courses. Many programs test your typing speed.
- 2
Legal assistant program
8 months to 2 years
A college certificate or diploma in legal administration. Vancouver Community College runs a 25-week certificate; Ontario and Alberta colleges run 1 and 2-year diplomas. You learn court forms, legal terms, billing and document software.
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Placement
2 to 6 weeks
Most programs end with a few weeks in a real law office. Many students are hired from it.
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First job
After graduation
Junior assistant supporting one or two lawyers. Firms train you on their systems.