by Samantha Hicks, Paralegal
Despite being licensed and regulated by the Law Society of Upper Canada, many people still consider paralegals subservient to lawyers - glorified secretaries, who greet clients, answer telephone inquiries and type letters. The ability to provide legal services, at a cost-effective rate, is often overlooked and/or ignored.
“Why”, you ask? Because people have this preconceived misconception that a higher price signifies better quality. I confess, that as a consumer, I too have fallen victim to this social marketing scheme – paying more for a brand name product when a generic one is available for less.
Having graduated with Honours from an accredited paralegal education program, I wrote and successfully passed the Paralegal Licensing Examination, thereby qualifying for a license and earning the right to practice law in Ontario.
As a paralegal, with valid professional liability insurance, I am permitted to give legal advice and represent clients:
· in the Ontario Small Claims Court;
· in the Ontario Court of Justice under the Provincial Offences Act;
· on summary conviction offenses where the maximum penalty does not exceed six months’ imprisonment; and
· before administrative tribunals, including the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Isn’t it nice knowing you have options?