Education · 1 of 5
The path
Two years of college, one exam, then a licence. Ontario only.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Any stream. English marks matter for admission.
- 2
Accredited paralegal program
2 years
A 2-year college diploma, or a 4-year degree, at a program approved by the Law Society of Ontario. Includes a field placement of about 120 hours.
- 3
Licensing exam
A few months
One multiple-choice exam set by the Law Society of Ontario, plus a good character check.
- 4
Licensed
Ongoing
You can open a practice or take a job. Annual fees and continuing education keep the licence.
- 5
Outside Ontario
1 to 3 years
A 1 or 2-year paralegal or legal assistant diploma, then work under a lawyer. In Quebec it is a 3 year college program instead: tap Quebec route to see it. No licence exists.