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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.
In What Types of Criminal Cases May a Paralegal Provide Representation?
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 significant number of online searches for “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” typically highlight a desire for prompt and effective legal support rather than a particular title. In Ontario, “licensed paralegals” are supervised by the same Law Society that governs lawyers and are permitted to represent clients in specific litigation issues. Skills such as advocacy, legal analysis, and procedural expertise are fundamental to this position. Olson Craig Legal provides legal representation within its licensed framework, focusing on strategic positioning, evidentiary preparation, and persuasive advocacy designed to secure efficient and advantageous outcomes for clients.