When you’re facing a legal issue, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How much will this cost me?” Hiring a lawyer can feel overwhelming financially — but in Ontario,
licensed paralegals provide affordable legal services for many common matters, including
traffic tickets, Small Claims Court, Landlord & Tenant Board disputes, provincial offences and summary convictions.
Additionally,
family law is included but only if the paralegal is an authorized FLSP by the Law Society of Ontario.
Understanding how paralegal fees work can help you budget with confidence and make the right decision for your case.
What Do Paralegals Do in Ontario?
Paralegals in Ontario are licensed and regulated by the
Law Society of Ontario (LSO). They are authorized to represent clients in specific areas of law, including:
- Landlord & Tenant Board disputes
- Small Claims Court cases (up to $35,000)
- Traffic tickets & provincial offences
- Criminal matters (summary charges)
- Family law (only a select few that are authorized FLSPs)
- Employment law matters (wrongful dismissal, unpaid wages, etc.)
- Human rights claims
- Other tribunals (WSIB)
This means you can get professional legal help at a fraction of the cost of hiring a lawyer — often with the same results in these areas.
Average Cost of a Paralegal in Ontario
Paralegal fees vary depending on the
type of case, complexity, and location. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Hourly Rates: $100 – $250 per hour (most paralegals fall between $100 – $150/hour).
- Flat Fees: Many paralegals offer flat fees for predictable matters like traffic tickets, eviction applications, or contract drafting. Flat fees can range from
$300 – $2,500+, depending on the case.
- Retainers: For ongoing or more complex cases, you may be asked to provide a
retainer (upfront deposit) that is applied toward your total fees.
Compared to lawyers, whose hourly rates often start at
$300 – $600 per hour, paralegal services are significantly more cost-effective.
Factors That Affect Paralegal Costs
Several factors influence how much your paralegal fees may be:
- Case Complexity – A straightforward traffic ticket costs less than a contested Small Claims trial.
- Time Required – Simple filings may be billed as flat fees, while hearings and trials are billed hourly.
- Location – Paralegal fees in downtown Toronto may be higher than in smaller Ontario communities.
- Experience – Seasoned paralegals with years of tribunal and courtroom experience may charge higher rates but bring added expertise.
Why Hiring a Paralegal Can Save You Money
While cost is an important factor, it’s equally important to consider
value. A paralegal can:
- Save you time by handling paperwork, filings, and deadlines correctly the first time.
- Prevent costly mistakes, missed deadlines, or lost cases.
- Provide clarity and guidance so you don’t waste time guessing about procedures.
- Represent you at hearings or in court, reducing your stress and increasing your chance of success.
In many cases,
the cost of hiring a paralegal is far less than the financial or personal cost of losing your case.
How Cordaie Paralegal Services Helps
At
Cordaie Paralegal Services, we believe in
transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden surprises. That's why all our rates are stated here on our website.
When you
book a Case Review,
we:
- Assess your situation honestly
- Provide clear options and costs
- Offer flat fees whenever possible so you know exactly what to expect
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a paralegal cost in Ontario? On average, you can expect to pay
between $100–$350 per hour or a flat fee for common legal matters. Compared to the cost of hiring a lawyer, paralegal services are an affordable and effective way to resolve your legal issues.
Ready to find out exactly what your case will cost?
Start My Case Review today and get clear answers, real support, and a plan to move forward.
