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Criminal Charges Defence Services
Within the Scope of Practice Available to Paralegal Representation
Last Updated: August 24 2026
Question: Can a paralegal represent me in an Ontario criminal case?
Answer: In Ontario, a licensed paralegal can provide limited criminal defence representation for certain summary conviction offences (heard by a judge, not a jury) under the Criminal Code, including matters like assault, theft under $5,000, and taking a vehicle or vessel without permission. A paralegal may also appear for additional offence types that fall within their authorized scope, but they cannot take on every criminal charge, so the best next step is to confirm your exact charge and court process. Olson Craig Legal can review your charge details and help you understand whether a lawyer or paralegal can represent you effectively in Ontario. Call (226) 886-2001 today to book a consultation and get clear, practical guidance for your situation.
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In What Sorts of Criminal Cases Might a Paralegal Provide Defence Services?
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 substantial amount of inquiries such as “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” typically indicate an urgency for proficient legal assistance rather than a particular title. In Ontario, licensed paralegals operate under the same Law Society that governs lawyers and are permitted to advocate for clients in specific litigation cases. Skills in advocacy, legal reasoning, and procedural expertise are core to this position. Olson Craig Legal provides legal representation within its licensed remit, focusing on strategic planning, evidence preparation, and compelling advocacy designed to secure effective and advantageous outcomes for clients.