Paralegal Durham College

Overview

The Paralegal programme at Durham College provides a sophisticated legal education designed to meet the rising demand for accessible justice services across Ontario. This honours degree equips students with the analytical tools and practical expertise required to navigate the Canadian legal landscape effectively.

Students develop advanced critical thinking skills to evaluate complex legal issues and construct strategic arguments for diverse client groups. The curriculum places a significant emphasis on cultural competency, ensuring graduates can support marginalised communities, including refugees, Indigenous peoples, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ population, with sensitivity and professional insight.

Why Paralegal at Durham College?

The institution offers a distinctive learning environment where students benefit from the expertise of accomplished faculty members, including legal practitioners and Deputy Judges. The programme is grounded in the entry-level competencies required by the Law Society of Ontario, ensuring that the teaching remains relevant to current professional standards.

Facilities and support services at the university are tailored to enhance the student experience, including dedicated assistance for securing experiential learning opportunities. Furthermore, eligible applicants with high academic standing may be considered for entrance awards, reflecting the university's commitment to rewarding excellence in the legal field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 19141 per year
• National fee: CAD 6555 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is delivered over nine semesters and includes a mix of core legal subjects and breadth electives. Modules may include:

Semester 1

• Communications for The Paralegal Profession
• Private Law Of Torts and Contracts 1
• Law and Legal Systems Of Canada
• Constitutional Law and The Charter
• Technology for The Paralegal Profession
• Private Law Of Torts and Contracts 2
• Provincial Offences: Prosecution and Defense
• Research and Writing for The Paralegal Profession
• Legal Accounting
• Small Claims Court
• Criminal Justice System and Summary Convictions
• Administrative Law: Procedural Fairness
• History and Philosophy Of Law
• Rights and Duties Of Residential Landlords and Tenants
• Insurance Law: Automobile and Workplace Safety
• Employment Law: Bargaining, Hiring and Disputes

Careers with Paralegal

Graduates are prepared to pursue licensing with the Law Society of Ontario to practice as independent legal professionals. Potential roles include licensed paralegals, community legal workers, prosecutors, legal assistants, law clerks, and tribunal adjudicators.

Employment opportunities are found across various sectors, including private law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Graduates may also find rewarding careers within legal clinics or administrative tribunals, providing essential representation and advocacy services to the public.