Overview
Paralegals prepare legal documents and conduct research to assist lawyers or other professionals. Independent paralegals provide legal services to the public as allowed by government legislation, or provide paralegal services on contract to law firms or other establishments. Justices of the peace administer oaths, issue subpoenas, summonses and warrants and perform other court-related duties such as conducting bail hearings. Notaries public administer oaths, take affidavits, sign legal documents and perform other activities according to the scope of their practice. Trademark agents advise clients on intellectual property matters. Paralegals are employed by law firms, by record search companies and in legal departments throughout the public and private sectors. Independent paralegals are usually self-employed. Justices of the peace are employed by federal, provincial, municipal, and territorial courts. Notaries public are employed by government and in the public and private sectors or they may be self-employed. Trademark agents are employed by law firms and legal departments throughout the public and private sectors, trademark development and search firms or they may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Paralegals
Assist lawyers by interviewing clients, witnesses and other related parties, assembling documentary evidence, preparing trial briefs, and arranging for trials
Assist lawyers in preparation for mediation and judicial dispute resolutions
Under the supervision of a lawyer, prepare wills, real estate transactions and other legal documents, court reports and affidavits
Research records, court files and other legal documents
Draft legal correspondence and perform general office and clerical duties.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$47,294
$70,824
$90,669
Usual Hours Worked Weekly: 34.32
Job openings
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British Columbia
836expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Paralegals in law firms require a bachelor's degree in law or a law college diploma and in-house training from a law firm or other legal establishment.
Independent paralegals require knowledge of legal principles and procedures usually obtained through industry-sponsored courses and through experience, or through completion of a community college paralegal program.
Paralegals require a licence to perform advanced legal services.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Paralegals in B.C.
- Membership with the BC Paralegal Association - Paralegals
Membership with the BC Paralegal Association - Paralegals
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a paralegal in B.C., you may choose to become a member of the BC Paralegal Association. Eligibility is achieved through completion of a recognized program and employment as a paralegal.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.