Program Overview
Online and On-Campus Delivery Options may be available!
Paralegal professionals play a vital role in the legal system, providing essential support to lawyers and clients across a range of legal matters. They are trained to perform a variety of tasks, including:
- Conducting legal research and drafting documents
- Assisting with trial preparation and court proceedings
- Managing case files and documents
- Communicating with clients and other legal professionals
- Performing administrative tasks and maintain efficiency
While their duties vary depending on their employer and specialization, paralegal professionals in British Columbia are typically knowledgeable about provincial laws and regulations and adhere to the standards set by the Law Society of British Columbia.
Sprott Shaw College is a corporate sponsor and supports the BC Paralegal Association (BCPA). Graduates of the Paralegal program from Sprott Shaw College may apply for affiliate membership with the BCPA.
Career Opportunities:
- Law Firms
- Government Agencies
- Legal Support Services
- Non-profit organizations
- Corporate Legal Departments
- Courts and Administrative Tribunals
- Multi-disciplinary practices
- Real Estate Companies
What’s New in the Paralegal Program?
Our Paralegal program has been newly updated with a revamped curriculum that we are excited for students to experience. These updates include:
- An introduction to the Canadian Legal System is now included at the start of both programs to build a strong foundational understanding of Canadian Law. This new course will provide a great starting point for those who may be unfamiliar with the Canadian Legal System and will better ease students into our legal programs.
- Legal Office Simulations that immerse students in a realistic legal environment and allow students to apply their knowledge in a hands-on way. These simulations will better prepare students for their roles in a legal office.
- An increase in roleplays, analyzing case studies, mock hearings, and interactive activities throughout the program. Interactive learning is proven to aid in comprehension, and this increase in interactivity will make for a more engaging learning experience.
- A course on Indigenous Affairs and Diversity in Law to allow students to better navigate an increasingly diverse and inclusive world. This addition provides our students with a greater understanding of diversity in the legal field.
- A course on Intellectual Property, Media and, Internet Law to prepare students for the growing regulation of technology and digital media. This course is a crucial addition as Information Technology Law is a fast-growing and ever-changing field.
- And finally, no more written final exams! Instead, students will work throughout the program on a client file project that will be presented on the final day of the program. This change allows our students to better demonstrate the skills they have gained throughout the program.
Paralegal Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the Paralegal program, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge in the following areas:
- Conduct comprehensive legal research using various resources, including online databases, case law, statutes, and legal literature, to support legal analysis and decision-making.
- Demonstrate proficiency in drafting a wide range of legal documents, including contracts, pleadings, motions, affidavits, and correspondence, adhering to established legal formats and standards.
- Apply knowledge of British Columbia’s legal system, including court procedures, rules of evidence, and legal terminology, to effectively assist lawyers in case preparation and management.
- Utilize technology and legal software efficiently to manage case files, perform document management tasks, and enhance workflow productivity in a legal practice environment.
- Communicate effectively with clients, lawyers, and other legal professionals through oral and written communication, demonstrating professionalism, clarity, and confidentiality in all interactions.
- Demonstrate understanding of ethical principles and professional responsibility in the legal profession, adhering to the standards outlined by the Law Society of British Columbia and maintaining client confidentiality and trust.
- Analyze and evaluate legal issues and facts, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify relevant legal principles and develop practical solutions to legal problems.
- Collaborate effectively within a legal team environment, demonstrating the ability to work independently on tasks as well as contribute to group projects and initiatives.
- Develop a specialization or area of expertise within the legal field, such as corporate law, criminal law, tort law, securities law, insurance law, credit and collection law, indigenous law and intellectual property law.
Methods of Evaluation
Methods of evaluation vary amongst the courses in the program. Please see the individual course outlines on how students are evaluated for each course.
Why Take The Paralegal Program at Sprott Shaw?
- Lifetime access to dedicated Employment Services Specialists (ESS) who can help you with resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, and the overall job search after graduation
- Lifetime tuition-free access to course refreshers if you ever need to retrain and update your skills
- Practicum opportunities with recognized organizations across BC
- Multiple start dates so you can start your education when you want to without the wait
- Career and professional development success courses to help create a career development marketing plan, learn the cardinal rules of professionalism, and identify the target markets and employment resources in the counselling field
- Preparation and orientation courses to teach you how to find credible research, write papers, create proper citation formats including APA, and study effectively for exams
- All-inclusive program costs where what you see is what you pay. Our costs include registration fees, assessment fees, tuition, textbooks, supplies, course materials, uniforms, certificates, graduation fees, practicum fees, and much more
- Grant and scholarship opportunities are available to help you save on tuition. Up to $4000 in scholarships and grants are open to recent high school graduates, Sprott Shaw alumni, military veterans, and more! Click here to browse our full list of grants and scholarships.
Where Are Sprott Shaw Graduates Working?
Our Administration, Legal, and Hospitality graduates can be found working throughout the province.
Legal graduates can be found working in law firms and legal offices such as the Sea to Sky Law Office, Robert L Dick Criminal Law, Westside Family Law, Merchant Law Group and more.
Click below to learn more about where our graduates are currently working. Please note that these lists do not cover every single business that has hired a Sprott Shaw graduate, but they do provide a good representation of the sort of industries that Sprott Shaw graduates are working in.
Success Stories
- “I have felt very supported by the staff at my campus, but I must give a huge thanks to my instructor. I still have 6 months left of the program and I already have a job awaiting me when I finish. AMAZING.” – Margot D.
Program Details
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must meet all of the pre-requisites listed below, meet their financial obligations to the college at registration, and acknowledge their understanding of SSC’s policies and procedures provided in the Student Handbook, prior to starting classes.
NOTE: Students are provided with a detailed list of books, e-resources, workshop/lab supplies, and lab/tool kits that are included in the program’s fees and will have the opportunity to opt in or out of purchasing from Sprott Shaw College or any other specific source any of these items at the time of registration.
- Applicants must successfully complete the admissions interview
MATH REQUIREMENT:
- Applicants must successfully complete the Math Entrance Assessment with a minimum score of 20/40
- Domestic students that can provide a Canadian transcript showing completion of Math 10, 11, or 12 or equivalent; Post Secondary Math; with a passing grade of ‘C’ will be exempt from having to write the Math Entrance Assessment. The equivalent credential must be evaluated and verified.
- International students that can provide a Canadian transcript showing completion of Math 10, 11, or 12 or equivalent; Post Secondary Math; with a passing grade of ‘C’ will be exempt from having to write the Math Entrance Assessment. The equivalent credential must be evaluated and verified.
EDUCATION LEVEL (one of the following):
- Grade 12 or equivalent (GED, Adult Basic Education) with evidence of a ‘true certified copy’ or original transcript
- Mature student status (age 19 and one year out of high school)
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY POLICY:
All programs at Sprott Shaw College (SSC) are conducted in English, making proficiency in the English language a requirement for enrollment.
The required proficiency can be demonstrated through 1) completion of secondary or post-secondary education where English is the language of instruction and is also one of the country’s official languages, or 2) An approved English Language Assessment, 3) Graduation from Sprott Shaw Language College’s (SSLC) EPE: English for Post-Secondary Education program, or 4) For mature (≥ 19 years) students who are facing barriers and cannot access their educational records or provide sufficient evidence of secondary or post-secondary education.
SSC programs that have a higher English language level, require additional years of secondary or post-secondary education where English is the language of instruction or where language proficiency is to be otherwise demonstrated, are identified within the relevant program outlines.
For all other SSC programs, English language proficiency is demonstrated by:
1. Education
a) Secondary Education
Evidence of Successful Fulltime Secondary Education Completion*, where English is one of the principle languages of instruction:
i) Showing two (2) years, if all Grades successfully completed are 10, 11, or 12, or
ii) Showing three (3) years if the successful Grades are 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12
iii)Showing validation of both language of instruction and credential level is provided by WES, ICES or IQAS.
OR
b) Post- Secondary Education
Evidence of 2 years of Fulltime Post-Secondary Education Completion*, where English is one of the principle languages of instruction. Language development courses (i.e. ELL courses) cannot be included in this calculation.
*This may be demonstrated by providing a high school transcript, completion of a BC Adult Graduation program, or providing validation of both language of instruction and credential level is provided by WES, ICES or IQAS.
Countries where English is the language of instruction:
American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guam, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, New Zealand, Nigeria, Saint Helena, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, Tanzania, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States, United States Virgin Islands, Zambia, & Zimbabwe.
OR
2. Assessment
By achieving a recognized standardized language test/assessment.
Approved English language assessment options:
· IELTS. International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic: Minimum overall score of 5.5.
· TOEFL. Test of English as a Foreign Language IBT: Minimum overall score of 46
· CAEL. Canadian Academic English Language Assessment. Minimum overall score of 40
· CELPIP. Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program: Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5 and Writing 5.
· DET. Duolingo English Test: Minimum overall score of 95
· PTE. Pearson Test of English Academic: Minimum overall score of 43
· Cambridge English Qualifications: Minimum overall score of 160 or “C”
· Cambridge Linguaskill: Minimum overall B2 level
· LANGUAGECERT Academic: Minimum overall B2 level
· MET. The Michigan English Test: Minimum overall B2 level
· iTEP Academic: Minimum overall score of 3.5
· EIKEN: Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1
OR
3. Accuplacer
For mature (≥ 19 years) students who are facing barriers and cannot access their educational records or provide sufficient evidence of secondary or post-secondary education.
Applicant must be 19 years or older at the start of the program and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and provides attestation that they have completed at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary instruction in English in a country where English is one of the principal languages (please refer to Countries where English is the language of instruction).
Accuplacer English Assessment (Next Generation) and achieves the following minimum scores required:
· Reading: 230
· Writing: 230
· WritePlacer: 4
For more information on our English language program-specific requirements and English equivalencies please click here: Sprott Shaw College English Language Requirements and Equivalents
Diploma Requirements:
- 60% average upon successful completion of all courses, including courses given a complete.
Note: Students can expect to complete 1 – 3 hours of homework per day
Contact Us Today!
Our advisors are happy to answer any questions.
Courses List
This 71 week Diploma program requires the student to complete the following courses.- This course provides students with an understanding of the fundamental features and functions of word processing, and a widely used word processing software application.
- Students will learn how to create, edit, format, and manage documents efficiently using Word's powerful tools and capabilities. Topics covered include document creation and navigation, text formatting, paragraph and page layout, working with tables and graphics, document collaboration, and advanced features such as mail merge and templates.
- By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the essential skills and proficiency needed to create professional-quality documents for various purposes, including reports, letters, resumes, and presentations.
- This course equips students with fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to proficiently navigate and utilize spreadsheet applications.
- Students will learn to create, edit, analyze, and visualize data using a wide array of features and functions. Topics covered include spreadsheet navigation, data entry and formatting, formula and function creation, data analysis and visualization, and spreadsheet management techniques. By the end of the course, students will be able to confidently manipulate and analyze data, create professional-grade spreadsheets.
- Learn effective study skills, time management, and goal setting.
- Understand college policies, technology, and expectations.
- Apply organization, writing, and citation techniques.
- Develop self-care and stress-management strategies for success.
- Research, prepare and deliver presentations
- Apply proper use of grammar principles
- Overview of processes of communication in the workplace
- Use MS Office PowerPoint
- Importance of written communication within the business environment
- Memos, email, letters and reports
- Interview techniques
- Create a Career Development Marketing Plan
- Apply aspects of professionalism
- Identify target markets and employment resources
- Specialty program coverage in this shortened version
- Effective customer service and support
- Problem-solving theory and applications
- This course serves as an introduction to the Canadian legal system. Students will explore the history and development of law in Canada as a basis for understanding the key features of our bijural legal system. Topics include an introduction to the nature of law, the sources of law, the legal system, the court system, the legal professions, the Canadian Constitution, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and methods of analysis. Special attention will be paid to the distribution of legal authority. To that end, students will examine the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the Canadian government and the roles they play in making, enforcing, and interpreting the law.
- This course introduces students to general law office procedures, the fundamental functions and duties of legal office staff, and the types of documents used in legal practice. Students will
differentiate between the roles of lawyers, legal support staff and court personnel. Also included is an in-depth examination of legal and ethical obligations towards clients. - A significant portion of this course will focus on the role of technology in internal and external communication with a special emphasis on preparing and maintaining client records, legal correspondence, and accounting. This course also covers general legal documents, such as agreements, affidavits, and statutory declarations and practice effective telephone techniques in a law firm.
- This course introduces students to the entire process of a civil lawsuit, starting with the initial client interview and ending with the appeals process. The focus of this course is to familiarize students to specialized legal terminology; Provincial Statute Law and Regulations; Form and Rules of Court in BC, especially the Supreme Court Civil Rules and Alternative Dispute Resolution. It includes preparation of court documents and correspondence necessary to complete an entire file, Confidentiality and Client Management and current civil litigation specific technology.
- This course will equip the legal administrator students with a foundational understanding of the legal principles and practices governing wills, trusts and estates in British Columbia. The Wills section of the course involves the process for Probate, Administration of Estate and Managing Estates. Students will learn the basic requirement for a valid will and the preparation of wills and various supporting documentation. In this course, student will also learn the roles of executors or administrators. This course will also examine the distribution of estates through intestacy.
- This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the legal principles and procedures in the incorporation process for businesses in British Columbia. Special emphasis is placed on the incorporation process including the formation, organization and dissolution of corporations. Through theoretical and practical exercises, students will develop skills necessary to assist lawyers in drafting and filing incorporation documents, maintaining record books, handling annual corporate requirements and corporate changes and complying with regulatory requirements.
- This course introduces students to the fundamentals of real estate law and covers -all aspects of residential conveyance from opening a file through to closing while acting for the buyer, the lender or for the seller in separate real estate transactions. Students will examine not only the contractual principles which are applicable to real estate transactions but also the unique principles that govern the relationships between seller buyers, and realtors. Topics covered include specialized legal terminology; Provincial Statute Law and Regulations; Preparation and filing of Forms and Rules of BC’s Land Title and Survey Authority.
- The course also covers the necessary documentation and procedures, including title searches, transfer documents, mortgage documents, statements of adjustments and trust reconciliation; confidentiality and client management; and current conveyancing specific technology.
- This course introduces students to the duties and responsibilities of a legal office administrator working in family law in British Columbia. This course introduces students to many aspects of family law including family law agreements, an introduction to the basic theory, and legal terminology of the Family Law Act and the updated Divorce Act.
- We will be looking at both Provincial Family Court Rules as well as the Supreme Court Family Rules. The topics will include, family law agreements, separation, defended and non defended family law cases, parenting arrangements, contact with a child and alternative dispute resolution.
- Students will also practice preparation of court documents and correspondence necessary to complete an entire client file.
- This course is designed as a capstone project where students will utilize the skills learned in LEGL100 – LEGL160. Students will be put in a simulation of a law firm where they will complete a client file project and prepare all court documents and correspondence for a hypothetical scenario.
- By the end of this 5-day practical workshop, students should be able to apply acquired knowledge through hands-on practical exercises, case studies, and real-world simulations to reinforce learning and enhance problem-solving skills.
- This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape in British Columbia, emphasizing the practical application of research methodologies and effective interviewing techniques.
- Through a variety of in-class exercises and hands on assignments, student will learn to develop their skills necessary to analyze simple legal problems and to research basic legal questions. Students will explore legal research principles and techniques required to locate relevant legislative materials, case laws, and secondary sources.
- Building on effective written communication skills developed in previous communication course, students will draft persuasively written legal arguments.
- Students will also learn to research and prepare cases through master techniques of legal interviewing. Students will conduct role play interviews and exercises in critical thinking and discussion about interviewing. Finally, learners will learn advanced documentation procedures and techniques for reporting legal information.
- This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of employment and labour law in British Columbia, focusing on practical applications for paralegals. Students will gain valuable insights into current legal frameworks, emerging trends, and effective strategies for handling employment-related cases.
- Students will examine relevant statutes, regulations and case law to develop an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees in the workplace.
- Students will also explore the relationship between employer and employee including hiring, termination, workplace discrimination, the role of the employee’s representative in negotiations, dispute resolutions and collective bargaining. Finally, students will consider the practical aspects of the employment relationship including wages, benefits, and statutory deductions.
- This course is designed to equip paralegals in British Columbia with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of civil litigation with a focus on civil injunctions and class action lawsuits. Building upon the foundational knowledge gained in previous courses, students will explore complex litigation issues, case management strategies, and practical skills required to effectively support lawyers in civil litigation matters.
- This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices governing contracts in Canadian law. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, students will learn to navigate contract formation, interpretation, performance, and remedies.
- The course covers essential topics such as offer and acceptance, consideration, capacity, legality, and contractual obligations. Students will gain insights into drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, as well as handling disputes and breaches. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively assist legal professionals in various contract-related matters.
- Paralegals carry an important administrative role in the practice of criminal law. This course is a comprehensive exploration of the Canadian criminal justice system and the foundational principles of criminal law. In this course, you will study the law and administrative procedures
relating to criminal law matters. - This course delves into the interpretation and application of the Criminal Code of Canada, along with relevant case law, statutes, and procedural rules. Students will develop a deep understanding of substantive criminal offences, procedural requirements, evidentiary rules, and the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders within the criminal justice system. You will complete a comprehensive criminal file that includes preparing retainer and pre-trial documents.
- This course is designed to equip students in British Columbia with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate disputes and help legal professionals effectively represent clients in contentious matters related to wills, trusts, and estates.
- Students will explore the complexities of estate litigation, including common disputes, procedural considerations, and ethical obligations. Through case studies, simulations, and practical exercises, students will develop the skills necessary to assist lawyers in handling complex estate matters and navigation contentious issues effectively.
- Securities Law for Paralegals provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework governing the issuance, trading, and regulation of securities such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives. Paralegal students in BC must understand the intricacies of securities law to effectively assist lawyers in ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting clients' interests in financial transactions. This area of law encompasses various statutes, regulations, and regulatory bodies, including the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC).
- This course is designed to help students learn about the registration and disclosure requirements for securities offerings, insider trading prohibitions, enforcement actions, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Through case studies, discussions, and practical exercises, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to assist lawyers in advising clients on securities-related matters.
- This course provides students with a solid understanding of federal corporations, crown corporations, non-profit organizations, and corporate governance principles.
- Students will delve into the legal frameworks, regulatory requirements, and practical applications relevant to these entities, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to support legal professionals in navigating corporate law matters effectively.
- This course provides paralegal students with an in depth examination of the legal principles, procedures, and regulations governing credit and collection practices, as well as bankruptcy law in
British Columbia. Students will learn about the legal framework governing credit transactions, debt
recovery methods, and the rights and obligations of creditors and debtors under BC law and the
legal remedies for debt collection, and the bankruptcy process. - The course also explores bankruptcy proceedings, including the different types of bankruptcy, discharge conditions, and the rights of creditors and debtors in bankruptcy cases. Through case studies, practical exercises, and legal research assignments, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to assist lawyer, clients, creditors, and debtors in navigating credit and debt related legal matters.
- This course is designed to provide students with a complete understanding of the law relating to immigration in Canada. Students will learn about the main pieces of legislation including the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the Citizenship Act, and the main United Nations’ Conventions, ratified by Canada.
- Students will examine the criteria and process whereby individuals gain admission to Canada as visitors, students and workers, as well as the criteria for permanent residence in the Family Class and Economic Class programs. Students examine the rules and principles applicable to those seeking refugee status in Canada, the tribunal process of the Immigration and Refugee Board and the process for obtaining Canadian Citizenship.
- A systems approach will be taken with a particular focus on border security, criminality, and anti-terrorism laws.
- This course is designed to provide a comprehensive study of tort law principles and their application within the Canadian legal system. Through theoretical instruction and practical case analyses, students will explore various torts, including negligence, intentional torts, strict liability, and vicarious liability and defences to tort claims.
- Emphasis will be placed on the development of critical thinking skills, legal research, and effective communication in the context of tort litigation. Additionally, students will explore contemporary issues and recent developments in tort law, with a focus on their relevance to the legal landscape in British Columbia.
- This course is designed to help students learn about the principles and practices of insurance law that relate to the role of paralegals in British Columbia. Students will learn about the nature of the contract of insurance and peculiarities in that type of contract.
- Special emphasis will be given to the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of insurance companies, policyholders, and third parties in relation to insurance contracts. Students will become familiar with terminology, jargon, and actual cases. Students will develop an understanding based on specific reference to ICBC cases and cases covering Life and Property insurance. Students will also learn about reinsurance and risk management.
- This course provides a comprehensive overview of indigenous affairs and diversity issues within the
legal framework of British Columbia. - Students will explore the historical, cultural and legal contexts and contemporary surrounding Indigenous peoples’ rights and the importance of diversity in the legal profession. You will develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous legal traditions, contemporary issues facing indigenous communities, and strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion within the legal system.
- This course provides an in-depth exploration of Intellectual Property (IP), Media, and Internet Law.
Students will develop a strong understanding of the legal principles governing intellectual property
rights, media regulations, and internet-related legal issues. - The course will cover various aspects of IP law, including trademarks, copyrights, patents,
industrial design, and trade secrets, as well as the intersection of IP with media and internet law. Students will also learn about the challenges posed by emerging technologies and digital platforms, and the legal frameworks designed to address them within the Canadian jurisdiction.
- This course is designed as a capstone project where students will utilize the skills learned in
LEGL201 – LEGL285. Students will be put in a simulation of a law firm where they will complete a
client file project / research memo and prepare all court documents and correspondence for a
hypothetical scenario. - By the end of this 5-day practical workshop, students should be able to apply acquired knowledge through hands-on practical exercises, case studies, and real-world simulations to reinforce learning and enhance problem-solving skills.
- This course offers students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world legal environment under the supervision of experienced legal professionals. Through a hands on learning experience, students will gain practical insights into the day-to-day operations of a legal office and develop valuable professional competencies essential for success in the field.
- Under the guidance of a mentor, students will engage in tasks and projects relevant to legal
administration, including case file management, document preparation, client communication, and
office procedures. Through observation and, participation, students will enhance their understanding of the legal profession, refine their professional skills, and build confidence in their ability to contribute effectively to a legal team.
Career Opportunities
Corporations
Government Agencies
Law Firms
Legal Departments
Real Estate Firms
Our Campuses
Not all programs available at
all
campuses.
* Paralegal was reviewed and approved by the Private Training Institutions
Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
