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In some instances, non-lawyers such as Paralegals and Court Agents can provide legal services for a fraction of what lawyers charge. Such individuals possess the experience to perform substantive legal work, with or without the guidance or supervision of a lawyer.

Paralegals can draft paperwork, conduct research, prepare materials for filing, and assist with trial preparation. They can also provide legal information and procedural definitions, research cases and legislation, and help self-represented litigants navigate their legal issues. Paralegals should have in-depth and up-to-date knowledge of the processes and procedures of our ever-changing court system, and should NOT provide legal advice.

Court Agents can often represent litigants in lower-levels of court. Court Agents can draft and file paperwork on clients’ behalf, appear at hearings, and even call and cross-examine witnesses at trial. Agents are generally not allowed to appear or speak in the Court of Queen’s Bench, though an individual may choose to have an in-court support person (“McKenzie Friend”) accompany them to court.

In Alberta, lawyers are regulated by the Law Society of Alberta, and:

· must meet educational requirements;

· must be licensed and possess liability insurance;

· must deposit client funds into a trust account to be disbursed as services are rendered; 

· are bound by lawyer-client privilege.

Only members of the Law Society (lawyers) can practice law and provide legal advice. If your matter is complex, you may wish to seek advice from a lawyer. Legal advice can strengthen your understanding of the rights and obligations related to your issue, thus allowing you to make better decisions. Informed Paralegal works in tandem with lawyers on an “as needed” basis, and can point you in the direction of free legal advice if need be.

In Alberta, non-lawyers are not regulated by a governing body, nor are any formal training requirements imposed upon them, so it is important to ask the right questions when seeking legal assistance. Consider the complexity of your matter, and the scope of the services offered by the firm or individual you’re seeking to retain. If you hire a non-lawyer, be sure that they possess relevant education, liability insurance, and a proven track record in and out of court.

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