Criminal Charges Defence Services Within the Scope of Practice Available to Paralegal Representation

Question: Can a paralegal defend a criminal charge in Ontario?

Answer: Yes, in Ontario, paralegals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario to defend certain summary criminal offences such as assault, taking vehicles without consent, and theft under $5,000. These offences are generally less serious and are heard by a judge in a provincial court. For support with summary offences, consider consulting Woodcock Legal Services to ensure timely and effective defence.

Is a Paralegal Permitted to Defend a Criminal Charge?

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
Include: