Are you interested in learning more about becoming a Legal Assistant? With so much information to filter through on the internet, it can be difficult to find the answers to your questions. That is why we have put together a guide that walks you through the different aspects of becoming and working as a Legal Assistant. Keep reading to find out more about this career path and whether it’s the right one for you!
What Is a Legal Assistant?
Legal Assistants play a vital role in the smooth operation and success of Canadian law firms, both big and small, as well as other work settings described below. As a Legal Assistant, you complete daily tasks that blend your specialized knowledge of legal disciplines with your aptitude for administrative duties.
The position of Legal Assistant is dynamic, and you will enjoy a wide variety of responsibilities. The diverse nature of the field offers you the opportunity for a highly rewarding career, with lots of room to grow and learn. With the right training, you will quickly become an indispensable member of the team.
Responsibilities of a Legal assistant
What you do in a day can vary, and it all depends on the type of office that you work in. However, typical daily responsibilities of a Legal Assistant include:
- Managing client records and ensuring confidentiality rules are adhered to
- Producing, managing, and organizing legal documents
- Conducting legal research
- Communicating with clients, counsel, and court officials
- Answering mail, emails, and phone calls
Successful Legal Assistants have the desire to work hard and possess skills such as a keen eye for detail, good team working capabilities, and a deep respect for confidentiality protocols.
Where Does a Legal Assistant Work?
Recent changes within the legal industry mean there are more opportunities for those who graduate with a Professional Legal Assistant Diploma. Large legal firms, small boutique practices, government offices, courts, corporate legal departments, and even real estate offices are all possible career opportunities for qualified Legal Assistants across Western Canada. More specifically, some positions you could apply for include:
- Legal Administrative Assistant
- Law Clerk
- Legal Secretary
- Executive Assistant
So, when thinking about becoming a Professional Legal Assistant student, remember that this qualification prepares you for a whole host of career opportunities, and gives you an elevated level of freedom when charting your career path.
What is a Legal Assistant’s Salary?
Legal Assistant salaries vary from province to province based on local economies, market conditions, and individual employers. The average base or starting salary average for Western Canada is just under $50,000 or over $21,000 more per year than the average minimum wage earner. And that’s just when you’re starting out as a new Legal Assistant. There is room to grow in this career, with the higher end of the salary scale exceeding $80,000 for experienced Legal Assistants in some provinces.
How to Become a Legal Assistant
The first step in becoming a successful Legal Assistant is finding the right Legal Assistant Diploma program for you. Doing ample research to discover the right course is very important, and there are a variety of questions you need to ask yourself before you settle on one:
- Online or in-person classes? Some institutions provide Legal Assistant programs online. This can make the decision to go to school to increase your earning potential easier. It is particularly helpful for those who have young families or do not live near the college campus of choice.
- Program resources? Consider what resources a college offers before deciding on a program – some may provide their students with more than others. What is the program offering you that will help you excel in the classroom and, eventually, in the workplace? Are textbooks included? How about a laptop so that you can access your program material?
- Is a practicum included? Programs that include practicums provide you with real workplace experience. This is sure to set you apart from other Legal Assistant candidates in the job market.
- Curriculum? Look for a program that provides you with a foundation in the Canadian legal system and includes hands-on courses in Criminal, Family, Commercial, Real Estate and Civil Law. You will also need training in legal-specific software, research skills, and office procedures. This is best provided by instructors with specialized legal skills and experience in the field.
- Program length? Compare program length from college to college. How soon do you want to start your new career? If you are excited to begin as soon as possible, look for an accelerated program that can be completed in less than a year, such as at Sundance College.
- College reputation? A college’s Google Reviews can provide keen insights into the learning environment and student satisfaction. Be sure to check them out!
Get Started!
Sundance College offers all the above-mentioned: Online & on-campus learning; practicums; hands-on, Canadian-based, accelerated learning; a laptop program; industry-experienced instructors; and a caring and supportive learning environment you can read about in our students’ and graduates’ Google Reviews.
Connect with our admissions advisors to learn more about Sundance College’s Professional Legal Assistant Diploma program.