In Ontario, Canada, licensed paralegals are permitted to practice in certain areas of criminal law, including summary conviction offences, provincial offences, and plea negotiations. This means that paralegals can represent clients charged with less serious criminal offences, such as traffic violations or minor assaults, as well as non-criminal provincial offences.
Paralegals are licensed to practice certain types of criminal law under the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). According to the LSO, licensed paralegals can practice in the following areas of criminal law:
Summary conviction offences: Paralegals can represent clients charged with summary conviction offences, which are less serious criminal charges that carry a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and/or six months in jail.
Provincial offences: Paralegals can also represent clients charged with provincial offences, which are non-criminal charges such as traffic violations, liquor license infractions, and by-law violations.
Plea negotiations: Paralegals can negotiate plea bargains on behalf of clients charged with criminal offences, subject to certain limitations.
While paralegals cannot represent clients in more serious criminal cases that are dealt with by the Superior Court of Justice, they can provide valuable legal assistance and representation to clients in the types of criminal cases they are licensed to handle. This can include helping clients understand their legal rights and options, and negotiating with the Crown prosecutor to reach a plea bargain.
Hiring a licensed paralegal to handle a criminal case can also be a cost-effective option for clients, as paralegal fees are typically lower than those charged by lawyers. However, it is important for clients to ensure that they are working with a licensed paralegal who is in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario, and who has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle their case.
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