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Criminal Charges Defence Services
Within the Scope of Practice Available to Paralegal Representation
Last Updated: August 22 2026
Question: Can a paralegal in Ontario represent me to defend a criminal charge?
Answer: In Ontario, paralegals licensed and regulated by the Law Society of Ontario can provide defence services for certain criminal charges that are prosecuted summarily (heard by a judge, not a jury), such as some assault matters, taking a vehicle or vessel without permission, and theft where the value is under $5,000, plus other summary offences, so if your charge fits the summary category, Woodcock Legal Services can help assess your options and plan next steps with professional legal services; for quick intake and case review, call (613) 334-6721 today.
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Are Paralegals Allowed to Represent In a Criminal Case?
In Ontario, Paralegals Are Licensed By the Law Society of Ontario and Are Permitted to Provide Representation Against Some Criminal Charges Such As Assault, Taking Vehicles or Vessels Without Consent, Theft Under $5,000, Among Other Offences.
Understanding the Summary Procedure Criminal Code Charges Category of Offences That May Be Defended By a Paralegal
In Ontario, paralegals are licensed and regulated by the Law Society of Ontario and granted a limited scope to provide representation against criminal charges. Specifically, paralegals are permitted to provide defence services for certain charges prosecuted as as summary criminal offences. Summary offences involve charges that are heard by a judge, rather than a jury, heard in a provincial court, and are less serious than the indictable offences category which, generally, involves matters of a greater seriousness.
Summary Procedure Offences
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NOTE: A considerable amount of searches featuring “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” typically indicate a necessity for prompt and competent legal aid rather than a particular job title. In Ontario, the Law Society that governs lawyers also regulates licensed paralegals, who are permitted to represent clients in specific litigation cases. Key elements of their role include advocacy, legal analysis, and procedural expertise. Woodcock Legal Services provides legal representation within its licensed parameters, focusing on strategic positioning, preparation of evidence, and effective advocacy to attain timely and favourable outcomes for clients.
