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Hiring Legal Representation:
Roles of Lawyers and Paralegals
Last Updated: July 04 2026
Question: Should I hire a lawyer or a paralegal in Ontario for my tribunal matter, court filing, or legal advice?
Answer: In Ontario, both lawyers and paralegals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and must complete ongoing professional development, with lawyers able to provide legal advice on all Ontario laws while paralegals are limited to specific areas. For many tribunal representation and administrative matters, both may help, but you should choose based on the complexity, the exact process, and what the other side is seeking. If you need 30+ year experienced lawyer services, including LSO tribunal representation, Lo Greco Law can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you take the right next steps in Ontario. To discuss whether a lawyer or paralegal is the best fit for your case, call (416) 488-4110.
Understanding Legal Representation
In Ontario, both lawyers and paralegals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. Lawyers are authorized to practice law and provide legal advice on all Ontario laws, while paralegals offer legal advice on specific laws. Both are professionally educated, insured, and obliged to undertake annual professional development to stay current with legal changes.
Self-Representation and Professional Assistance
Though self-representation is possible, it is generally not advised. In certain legal scenarios, both lawyers and paralegals can offer assistance, while in others, only a lawyer can. Typically, hiring a paralegal is more cost-effective where both professionals are eligible to assist.
Comparisons: Paralegals and Lawyers
Paralegals often have greater experience in court filing, procedures, and research. Lawyers, however, are usually better suited for complex and high-money cases due to their comprehensive legal knowledge.
Lawyer Scope of Practice
- Family matters, including divorce, separation, and child custody.
- Criminal matters at all court levels.
- Civil litigation in all courts.
- Wills, powers of attorney, and estate matters.
- Real estate transactions for personal or commercial properties.
- Administrative law, including tribunal appearances.
Lawyers are exclusively permitted to prepare legal documents like wills, powers of attorney, and family law agreements.
Paralegal Scope of Practice
- Civil litigation in Small Claims court.
- Prosecution and defense under the Provincial Offences Act.
- Administrative law, including tribunal and board appearances.
- Certain summary conviction criminal charges in the Ontario Court of Justice.
Paralegals can draft documents and negotiate on behalf of clients in the above areas.