With high salaries and an in-demand job market, an increasing number of Canadians are looking at how to become a paralegal in BC. Working behind the scenes alongside lawyers and attorneys, Paralegals play a vital role in the legal process. A Paralegal’s work is always interesting and ever-changing, and they can still earn high wages without a law or bachelor’s degree!
If the legal field interests you—but the seven to eight years of education it takes to become a lawyer doesn’t—a Paralegal career might be right for you!
Want to know more? Keep reading to learn more about what Paralegals do, how to become a Paralegal, and a Paralegal’s salary range.
How to Become a Paralegal in BC
Becoming a Paralegal with Sprott Shaw College
If you have any questions about our Paralegal program, our advisors are always available to chat!
What Does a Paralegal Do?
If Paralegals aren’t lawyers, then what does a Paralegal do? As an essential part of the legal system, paralegals support lawyers and clients by assisting with trial preparation and court proceedings, managing case files, and conducting legal research. They are oftentimes responsible for drafting legal documents, such as contracts, pleadings, motions, affidavits, and professional correspondence, all of which must adhere to established legal formats and standards. Legal procedures can be lengthy and intricate, and Paralegals are there to help smooth the process for everyone involved.
The duties of a Paralegal vary along with their specialization. For example, a Paralegal who works in contract law will work with lawyers to draft, review, and negotiate contracts, as well as handle disputes and breaches. On the other hand, a Paralegal working in criminal law may have to assist in interviewing witnesses and preparing clients for trial.
According to WorkBC, Paralegals often work in law firms, record search companies, and in legal departments throughout the public and private sectors.
How to Become a Paralegal in BC
In BC, the most common first step to becoming a Paralegal is acquiring a college diploma from a Paralegal program. Through a Paralegal program, students should learn the ins and outs of BC’s legal system, including court procedures, legal terminology, and rules of evidence. As there are many branches of law, it’s important for Paralegal programs to introduce specializations, such as intellectual property law, family law, and criminal law, just to name a few. Paralegal diploma programs are typically around two years, however, Sprott Shaw College’s Paralegal program is only 16 months (71 weeks) long, getting you into your Paralegal career faster.
A Paralegal career is well-suited for individuals who are perceptive, logical, and sharp, and thrive while working with details and complex information. Their communication and comprehension skills must be impeccable, as they often have to receive and relay in-depth, precise, and complicated information through both writing and speaking.
Paralegal Salary Range
According to WorkBC, the median annual Paralegal salary is over $73,000, with hourly wages ranging from around $23 to $52. Paralegals often earn high wages and are in high demand.
Most Paralegals work regular full-time hours, usually in office settings, and must sometimes work long hours in order to meet urgent deadlines.
Becoming a Paralegal with Sprott Shaw College
Sprott Shaw College’s Paralegal program gets students career-ready through interactive and hands-on learning experiences such as mock hearings, roleplaying, legal office simulations, and analyzing case studies. We’re proud of our updated, modern curriculum that includes courses on Indigenous Affairs and Diversity in Law and Intellectual Property, Media, and Internet Law. This revamped curriculum no longer includes a final written exam—instead, students work on a client file project throughout the duration of the program that they present on the final day.
Thanks to our monthly intakes and accelerated program, you can earn your Paralegal diploma and start your career in just 16 months (71 weeks). With 15 campuses across BC, and in-class and online options available, there’s no better time or place to launch your Paralegal career.
Ready to Become a Paralegal?
Have questions or ready to take the next step? Our advisors are here to answer your questions and guide you through our enrollment process.