A Positive Outlook for the Ontario Paralegal Profession
Olga Leyenson, managing partner of Gobin & Leyenson LLP, was interviewed and quoted in a Toronto Star article discussing the growing opportunities within Ontario’s paralegal profession. The article, titled The Outlook Is Bright for Paralegals, highlighted the increasing demand for licensed paralegals and the expanding role of paralegals within Ontario’s legal system.
The article focused on several important developments affecting Ontario paralegals. These developments included the increase in Small Claims Court monetary jurisdiction from $25,000 to $35,000, the expanding recognition of paralegals within legal workplaces, and the growing need for accessible legal services throughout Ontario. These changes created significant opportunities for future paralegals entering the profession. As a result, Ontario’s paralegal profession continues to experience strong growth and increased demand.
Olga Leyenson Discusses the Demand for Ontario Paralegals
During the interview, Olga Leyenson discussed the increasing opportunities available to licensed paralegals in Ontario. She explained that the expansion of Small Claims Court jurisdiction alone created new opportunities for paralegals to assist individuals and businesses with civil litigation matters. In addition, Olga emphasized that law firms, corporations, and courts increasingly recognize the value licensed paralegals bring to the legal profession. Consequently, many Ontario employers now actively seek paralegals with strong advocacy, procedural, and communication skills.
The article also highlighted the practical nature of Ontario paralegal education. Students receive both substantive legal training and hands-on advocacy experience through mock hearings, procedural exercises, and field placements.
Supporting the Next Generation of Ontario Paralegals
Olga Leyenson continues to contribute to paralegal education in Ontario through teaching, publishing, and professional mentorship. She teaches within George Brown Polytechnic’s paralegal program while also managing a busy Ontario law firm focused on residential tenancy law and civil litigation.
In addition, Leyenson has contributed to several educational resources used in accredited Ontario paralegal programs. Her published work includes:
- Small Claims Court: Procedure and Practice (6th Edition)
- Ethics and Professional Practice for Paralegals (6th Edition)
- Communication and Writing for Paralegals (2nd Edition)
Her longstanding commitment to professional development and legal education within Ontario’s paralegal profession is demonstrated through her ongoing efforts.
Why the Ontario Paralegal Profession Continues to Grow
Ontario’s legal system continues to evolve. Consequently, licensed paralegals now play an increasingly important role in improving access to justice and providing affordable legal services.
Many legal matters handled by paralegals involve residential tenancy disputes, Small Claims Court litigation, provincial offences, and administrative tribunal proceedings. As demand for these services increases, Ontario’s legal profession continues to recognize the important role paralegals serve within the justice system.
Furthermore, Ontario paralegal programs now combine academic instruction with practical workplace training. Students complete field placements and develop advocacy skills before entering professional practice. As a result, graduates enter the profession with both legal knowledge and practical experience.
About Olga Leyenson
Olga Leyenson is the managing partner of Gobin & Leyenson LLP, a law firm located in Oshawa and serving clients throughout Ontario. She is a licensed paralegal, educator, and published author with extensive experience in residential tenancy law and Small Claims Court litigation.