New Paralegals welcomed!
On Wednesday April 23 2014, one hundred and seventy five newly licensed paralegals gathered at Osgood
Hall to attend the paralegal reception held by the Law Society of Upper Canada (LSUC). The event is held
twice a year to welcome new paralegal licensees. About forty special guests were also present at this event
including Kathy-Lou Johnson (Senior Justice of the Peace, Ontario Court of Justice), Timothy Lipson
(Regional Senior Justice, Ontario Court of Justice) and Warren Ralph (Regional Senior Justice of the Peace,
Ontario Court of Justice). Other guests included the five recently elected Paralegal Benchers, representatives
from the three Ontario paralegal associations (PSO, LPA, and WPAO) and representatives of the Ontario Bar
Association (OBA). The two hour reception was a great chance for the newly licensed paralegals to network
and to get to know some of the influencers of the legal profession in Ontario. Tons of business cards were
exchanged. Guests enjoyed the beautifully designed interior of Osgood Hall’s Convocation Hall that made a
perfect background for plenty of keepsake photos. News and photos of the event were posted on twitter
with hashtag #Licensed2014. Additional photos of the event were
published on the LSUC’s Facebook page.
LSUC Treasurer, Thomas G Conway, congratulated and welcomed
the new licensees. Cathy Corsetti, the re-elected chair of the Paralegal
Standing Committee (PSC) and the Law Society’s CEO, Robert
Lapper Q.C., also made speeches welcoming the new licensees.
Treasurer Conway pointed out that the Law Society should not be
looked at as a mere disciplinary authority. Paralegals can benefit from
the CPD program, the practice management assistance and the
focused help offered by the LSUC through the Practice Management
Review Program. “In Ontario we have a remarkable Justice system
that is envied in other parts of the world. It is, however, a justice
system that faces many significant challenges in making sure that all
Canadians can access the system when they need it and in ways that
best match their needs. You have joined the rank of legal service New paralegal licensee and PSO
providers in this province that are charged with meeting that Communication Committee member
Delaram M. Jafari poses with Treasurer
challenge.” said Treasurer Conway addressing the new paralegal Thomas C Conway.
licensees. He added that more than 6000 paralegals were licensed
during the 8 years following enactment of the Access to Justice Act in 2006. “The public benefits from
having access to skilled trained professionals supported by a full regulatory system that includes a code of
professional conduct, liability insurance, ethical standards and open and transparent disciplinary process.”
said Treasurer Conway.
Cathy Corsetti encouraged all new paralegals to take advantage of the supportive programs of the LSUC
including the Referral Service and the Member Assistance Plan. According to her, experience has shown that
working in isolation has been a disadvantage for new paralegals. To avoid isolation, Corsetti advised sharing
office space, joining paralegal associations and using the help of a more experienced mentor.
On behalf of the PSO, we would like to congratulate all new paralegal licensees.
Welcome to the paralegal profession!