Paralegals and Legal Occupations
Formal Description
“Paralegals prepare legal documents and conduct research to assist lawyers or other professionals. Independent paralegals provide legal services to the public as allowed by government legislation, or provide paralegal services on contract to law firms or other establishments.” (NOC 2021)
Sample Job Titles
This category includes a variety of job titles that may not necessarily be reflected by the category title. For a full index of job titles, see the category entry on the ESDC site. Example job titles include:
Abstractor
Brief Writer
Clerk of Probate
Commissioner of Affidavits
Copyright Agent
Family Law Clerk
Judicial Officer
Justice of the Peace
Notary Public
Paralegal
Registrar of Probate
Title Examiner
Typical Employment and Education Requirements
The requirements listed for each occupational category will tend to vary across particular roles, job titles, and contexts.
The following typical requirements are listed on the ESDC’s 2021 entry for this occupational category:
- Paralegals prepare legal documents and conduct research to assist lawyers or other professionals.
- Independent paralegals provide legal services to the public as allowed by government legislation, or provide paralegal services on contract to law firms or other establishments.
- Notaries public require a provincial licence. In British Columbia, membership in the Society of Notaries Public is also required.
Success with a Social Sciences Undergraduate Degree and Beyond
When reviewing typical requirements, please remember:
- Degree and diploma listings often end with a purposefully open-ended phrase (“or a related field”, “or a similar discipline”) that acknowledges the variety and applicability of social sciences and liberal arts degrees.
- Employers often focus less on the name or title of a candidate’s degree, and more on how they articulate their transferable skills and experiences.
- Many qualifications and certifications are available as post-graduate certificates aimed at recent university graduates; these can make an excellent further education option for a social sciences or liberal arts degree.
Related Categories
Here are a few other categories that might interest you:
Related Sectors
Whereas Economic and Social Development Canada’s ‘occupational’ categories tend to focus more on the duties and functions that people play in specific roles, exploring careers by ‘sectors’ helps us to sort by employer type, industry, or general field of work. Here are just a few of the sectors that may be relevant to this category:
Academic Program Connections
As you select your program of study and the courses you will take, you can chart a path towards success in this sector from any one of our social sciences departments and programs. Here are just a few examples of academic disciplines that have connections with this sector:
Political Science Learn More
Political Science explores legal systems, public policy, and government institutions. Paralegals benefit from understanding how laws are created, interpreted, and applied within political and legal frameworks. A background in political science enables paralegals to navigate legal procedures, support case preparation, and interpret legislation with confidence.
Sociology Learn More
Sociology examines social structures, inequality, and justice systems. Paralegals often work with clients from diverse backgrounds and must understand the social factors that influence legal issues. Sociological insight helps paralegals approach cases with empathy, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of systemic challenges.
Social Psychology Learn More
Social Psychology focuses on human behaviour, group dynamics, and decision-making. Paralegals regularly interact with clients, legal teams, and court personnel—requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of social psychology enhances a paralegal’s ability to manage client relationships, resolve conflicts, and support effective legal advocacy.
Work & Labour Studies Learn More
Work & Labour Studies explores employment law, labor relations, and workplace rights. Paralegals frequently assist with cases involving contracts, workplace disputes, and regulatory compliance. A foundation in labour studies equips paralegals to interpret employment legislation, support grievance processes, and advocate for fair workplace practices.
