If you need legal advice from an expert, consider enlisting the services of a paralegal rather than an attorney or lawyer. Even though a paralegal is not the same as a lawyer, they can support you with various legal services, especially with personal injury cases. Here are some points why we hire a paralegal
Paralegals are more affordable than lawyers
Attorneys charge a lot more than paralegals. Thus, if you cannot afford a lawyer, hiring a paralegal is the next best option. Paralegals are also more cost-effective because lawyers may charge upwards of hundreds of dollars an hour, whereas some paralegals will charge a daily flat fee instead of bill clients by the hour.
They are qualified and licensed
To become a paralegal, a law student has to complete courses at an institution approved by the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities. Many accredited colleges in Ontario now offer Paralegal Education Programs where the student is required to take mandatory courses. Upon graduation, he or she will receive an Ontario College Diploma They must also pass a licensing exam in order to practice. The multiple-choice exam assesses an individual’s knowledge and judgment to ensure they are qualified enough to give legal advice.
Paralegals can provide a better, more personal experience
Sometimes lawyers are too busy with their various clients or cases to give sufficient time and attention to everyone. In addition to that, because private client lawyers tend to work hard and more hours than commercial lawyers, some attorneys may be unavailable to assist you as quickly or as efficiently.
Paralegals have standards they need to meet
The Law Society was organized to assure paralegals and lawyers help serve the interest of the public by meeting standards in trained conduct. In the path to becoming a paralegal, the candidate must also demonstrate good character. Furthermore, the individual needs to learn the necessary knowledge and skills that make up professional competence.
They specialize in an area of law
In many situations, paralegals are even more specialized than lawyers. Even though lawyers might have a wider base of general knowledge when it comes to legal matters, an attorney may not spend as much time on specific cases as a paralegal would.
Paralegals carry insurance for their practice
In Ontario, the law requires paralegals to have liability insurance. They are insured against malpractice, defined as negligence on the part of an attorney. Occurrences include a breach of the contract wherein harm is caused by the client.
They offer flexibility
Some paralegals are ready to work from home or as an independent contractor. Consequently, they have a flexible schedule, which profits their clients as well. You can contact your paralegal during evenings, weekends, or holidays.
They can represent you in different circumstances
Some common areas paralegals can help you include Provincial Offences, Small Claims Court, and Tribunals. In fact, there are several legal services either lawyers or paralegals can provide. For example in Provincial Court, a paralegal will assist you in fighting traffic tickets. With Small Claims, they will aid you with litigation. Landlord and Tenant Board or Workplace Safety and Insurance Board fall under hearings before tribunals. Paralegals are even able to defend you under the Criminal Code in the Ontario Court of Justice for minor or summary criminal charges. Overall, paralegals provide legal advice and representation while conserving you time and money.
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