Paralegals Defence Lawyer

Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

If a complaint has been filed against you with the Law Society of Ontario (LSO), you need the guidance of a knowledgeable and experienced professional discipline lawyer. ALF defends paralegals throughout the investigative and disciplinary processes at the LSO. Facing allegations of professional misconduct from a client, colleague, employee, or another member of the profession can be overwhelming and stressful. Entrusting ALF with your case means having an experienced advocate by your side every step of the way. We understand how a complaint or allegation can impact your career, reputation, and financial stability. Our paralegal defence lawyers are committed to working tirelessly and strategically to ensure the dismissal of meritless complaints and allegations of professional misconduct, safeguarding your livelihood and future.

Navigating LSO Investigations and Audits

The LSO’s Complaints and Compliance department first assesses whether it has jurisdiction over the matter. If it does, the department decides whether the complaint or allegation of misconduct or incapacity can be resolved early or requires referral to the Intake & Resolution department.

If the allegations are more serious, the case may be forwarded to Investigation Services for a deeper review. ALF paralegal defence lawyers are highly skilled in guiding paralegals through the investigatory stage and handling LSO audits. Early intervention is crucial to preserving your reputation and license. Whether preparing for an audit or investigation, we ensure that all relevant information demonstrating your competence and integrity is presented to the LSO, helping to dismiss any unfounded complaints.

As a paralegal, you have a professional obligation to respond promptly and cooperate with the LSO. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to additional disciplinary action under the LSO’s Summary Hearing Process.

Making Submissions to the LSO Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC)

ALF assists paralegals in crafting effective submissions to the Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC). The PAC screens complaints and may authorize disciplinary proceedings or refer the matter for informal resolution. It can also refer the complaint to a Hearing Panel for a full hearing or choose to resolve the issue outside of the formal disciplinary process.

At this critical stage, it’s important to consult with an experienced lawyer. If the PAC issues a Notice of Application (NOA), the complaint becomes public, including the allegations against you. This can have severe reputational and financial consequences. ALF paralegal defence lawyers specialize in drafting persuasive, well-crafted submissions to the PAC, helping to convince the panel to dismiss the complaint early in the process. Acting swiftly can protect your time, reputation, and finances.

Defending Paralegals in Hearings Before the Hearing Division

If your case progresses to a hearing before the Hearing Division, it involves witness testimony, cross-examination, evidence presentation, and legal submissions before the panel. ALF paralegal defence lawyers have extensive experience in these proceedings, gained through decades of practice in tribunals and courtrooms across Ontario.

Effective cross-examination of prosecution witnesses is crucial to challenging allegations of professional misconduct. The key to success lies in meticulous preparation, focused questioning, and the ability to adjust to the witness's responses as they unfold. ALF defence lawyers bring these skills to your defence, working to ensure the best possible outcome.

Appealing Unfair Decisions Before the Appeal Division

If the Hearing Division renders an unjust or unreasonable decision, you have the right to appeal to the LSO Appeal Division. This appeal process involves reviewing the record of the proceedings, drafting legal arguments, and presenting oral arguments before a panel.

ALF paralegal defence lawyers bring a wealth of experience to appeals, scrutinizing the record to uncover errors and develop compelling arguments for a successful outcome. Our trial and appellate experience provide us with the necessary perspective to identify key issues and build a strong appeal strategy. We are committed to ensuring your case is presented persuasively and effectively.

Appealing to the Divisional Court

If the Appeal Division declines to overturn a decision, paralegals can appeal to the Divisional Court of Ontario. Much like appeals before the Appeal Division, this process involves reviewing the record, preparing legal arguments, and presenting them before a panel of Ontario Superior Court judges.

ALF paralegal defence lawyers have extensive experience arguing cases at the Divisional Court. We will pursue every avenue available to protect your reputation, license, and financial stability.

Addressing Other Regulatory Issues

Beyond the LSO complaint process, ALF also assists paralegals with a range of other regulatory matters, such as practice issues, advertising concerns, billing disputes, and licensing issues, including navigating license suspensions, revocations, and license reinstatements.

Why Choose ALF?

Proven Results: We have a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes for regulated professionals.
Respected Advocacy: Our written and oral advocacy is highly regarded across tribunals and courts.
Competitive Fees: We provide top-tier representation at reasonable rates.

If you are a paralegal facing a complaint or investigation, it’s crucial to act quickly. By working with an experienced defense lawyer from the outset, you can protect your practice, reputation, and livelihood.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Whether in-person, by phone, or virtually, the ALF team is here to guide you through this challenging process with expertise and dedication.

Let's talk!