A Comparison of the Legal Services
Provided by Paralegals & Lawyers in Ontario
Comparing the Two Legal Professions
Paralegals in Ontario can provide many of the same services that lawyers do. For instance, they can give legal advice, draft legal documents and represent clients in certain tribunals. However, they may not provide legal advice or appear in court for some issues such as indictable offences in criminal court. Although they can represent a client for a summary conviction offence or a hybrid offence that is being prosecuted by way of summary conviction.
In terms of legal advice, paralegals are able to provide advice in a variety of areas including Small claims Court Matters, landlord and tenant disputes, personal injuries, and highway traffic offences. They are also able to provide advice on matters of provincial law such as the Ontario Human Rights Code. Lawyers are able to provide advice in all of these areas, as well as advice on matters of federal law such as the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
When it comes to drafting legal documents, paralegals and lawyers in Ontario are both able to provide this service. Paralegals may be able to provide documents for smaller matters such as Small Claims Court proceedings. Lawyers, on the other hand, can provide documents for larger matters such as real estate transactions and corporate proceedings.
When it comes to representing clients in court or tribunals, paralegals are able to represent clients in certain provincial tribunals such as the Landlord and Tenant Board and the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal. Lawyers, on the other hand, are able to represent clients in higher courts of law such as criminal appeals.
In terms of cost, paralegals are generally cheaper than lawyers. Paralegals often charge a lower flat rate for services, while lawyers often charge more by the hour. However, it is important to remember that paralegals may not be able to provide the same level of representation as lawyers can.
In conclusion, paralegals and lawyers in Ontario can both provide legal services. Paralegals are able to provide legal advice and draft documents in certain matters, as well as represent clients in certain tribunals. However, lawyers are able to provide advice in all areas of law, as well as represent clients in matters such as real estate transactions.
Paralegals are generally cheaper than lawyers, but may not be able to provide the same level of representation. It is important to consider all of these factors when deciding which professional to hire for legal services in Ontario.
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