At Gobin & Leyenson LLP, we understand how essential strong ethics are in Ontario’s legal system. Olga Leyenson, the firm’s managing partner, has worked on a wide range of matters in Small Claims Court and before administrative tribunals. Her experience shows that professionalism, clear communication, and proper client relationships shape the outcome of every case. Because these skills are central to effective practice, practical and accessible resources on ethics are crucial for both new and experienced paralegals.
One valuable resource is Ethics and Professional Practice for Paralegals, 6th Edition. Although written for Ontario paralegals, it also supports lawyers, legal students, and self‑represented litigants who want a better understanding of ethical duties. The book explains the Paralegal Rules of Conduct and the Paralegal Professional Conduct Guidelines in simple language. In addition, it covers key topics such as client relationships, retainers, practice management, advertising rules, and the role of the Paralegal Standing Committee.
Ethics and Professional Practice for Paralegals, 6th Edition: A Practical Guide to Professional Conduct in Ontario
The text uses real‑world fact situations, including the ongoing story of Rajni Peacock, who progresses from licensing to opening her own firm. These scenarios show how ethical issues arise in daily practice. As a result, readers learn how to recognize risks and handle them responsibly.
This sixth edition also includes a new chapter on working with Indigenous clients. This addition encourages cultural awareness and respectful service. New Case in Point examples, updated scenarios, and increased commentary further help readers prepare for ethical challenges in legal work.
Key Features
This edition includes several user‑friendly tools:
- A new chapter on ethics and Indigenous clients written by Valarie Waboose
- Case in Point boxes highlighting important decisions and outcomes from the Law Society Tribunal and higher courts
- Planning for Practice fact situations at the start of every chapter
- Additional application questions and new scenarios
- The full text of every rule and subrule from the Paralegal Rules of Conduct, along with the related guidelines
- Precedents for retainer agreements, engagement letters, and other practice documents
- Charts explaining major rules and concepts in a clear format
- Expanded examples and commentary throughout
Together, these features help readers build strong ethical judgment and practical skills.
What the Book Covers
Chapter 1: Paralegal Governance in Ontario
Chapter 2: Professionalism
Chapter 3: Know Your Client
Chapter 4: Duty to Clients
Chapter 5: Advocacy
Chapter 6: Duty to Licensees and Others
Chapter 7: Ethics in Paralegal Practice Management
Chapter 8: Ethics and Indigenous Clients
Appendices include the complete Paralegal Rules of Conduct and the Paralegal Professional Conduct Guidelines.
Contribution from Gobin & Leyenson LLP
Olga Leyenson authored Chapter 7: Ethics in Paralegal Practice Management. Her contribution reflects years of hands‑on experience running a legal practice, supervising matters, and guiding clients through complex processes. Because practice management demands accuracy, organization, and a strong ethical foundation, her chapter offers practical steps that readers can apply immediately.