• Globe Article
• POL's Response
• Petition Text
• Exec. Summary
• Downloads in .pdf:
   • Regulatory Framework
   • Petition Text

Regulating Paralegal Practice in Ontario

As public demand for alternatives to overpriced legal guidance has increased Paralegals have increasingly stepped to the plate offering the needed assistance in some areas of law which doesn't demand the skills of a lawyer. We've worked hard to build our skills and professionalism in offering our services to the public.

Professional Paralegals have long recognized the need for a self-regulatory framework backed by legislation to ensure the public has access to honest, competent and well trained professionals within the field.

After hearing submissions from a long list of stakeholders within the Paralegal and Legal fields, The Honourable Peter deC. Cory released his report on May 31, 2000. In his report he suggests:

"There will have to be a governing body put in place. At the outset it will be composed of four paralegals; four members of the public; two nominees from the Law society of Upper Canada and four representatives from the Ministry of the Attorney General with an independent chair presiding." In other words, a self-regulating system similar to the Law Society of Upper Canada.

A fringe organization reporting itself to represent Paralegals in Ontario is now attempting to broker an arrangement which will bring Paralegals under the authority of the Law Society of Upper Canada, a group largely opposed to Paralegals working independently.

This must be stopped!!

1. Read the Globe & Mail report of April 24, 2002 and Par-O-Law's response to it.
2. Examine the Executive Summary of The Honourable Peter deC. Cory's report and download a .pdf copy of A Framework For Regulating Paralegal Practice In Ontario - Executive Summary and Recommendations
3. Read the text of Par-O-Law's petition and download your copy for signing and collecting other signatures (.pdf)

The public and all Paralegals have a right to be heard on this important matter!