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Criminal Charges Defence Services
Within the Scope of Practice Available to Paralegal Representation
Last Updated: June 12 2026
Question: Can a paralegal defend a criminal charge in Ontario?
Answer: In Ontario, Olson Craig Legal (Lawyer & Paralegals) can represent you on certain Criminal Code matters when they’re prosecuted as summary (less serious) offences, such as common assault and theft under $5,000, but they can’t handle indictable or jury-level cases. For fast clarity on whether your charge qualifies and to protect your rights early, call (226) 886-2001 for a free 15-minute consultation serving clients across Ontario.
Is a Paralegal Permitted to Defend a Criminal Charge?
In Ontario, Paralegals Are Permitted to Represent Persons Accused of Certain Criminal Charges Such As Assault, Taking Vehicles or Vessels Without Permission, Theft Valued Less Than $5,000, and Additional 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:
NOTE: A considerable amount of online searches featuring “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” usually indicate a desire for prompt and effective legal support rather than a particular designation. In Ontario, the same Law Society that governs lawyers also regulates licensed paralegals, allowing them to advocate for clients in specific litigation scenarios. Skills in advocacy, legal assessment, and procedural knowledge are foundational to this position. Olson Craig Legal provides legal representation within its authorized framework, focusing on strategic planning, evidence preparation, and compelling advocacy to achieve swift and positive outcomes for clients.