What is the role of a paralegal regarding criminal matters in Ontario?

The role of a paralegal regarding criminal matters in Ontario is indeed limited to certain misdemeanor offenses under specific conditions. Paralegals in Ontario are licensed professionals who can represent clients in specific types of legal matters, including some less serious criminal offenses, often referred to as summary conviction offenses. These offenses typically carry lighter penalties compared to indictable offenses and may include petty theft, certain drug offenses, and other minor crimes.

Paralegals must operate within the scope of the Law Society of Ontario's regulations, which delineate their authority in criminal law. They can provide legal services such as representation in court, assisting with bail hearings, and offering legal advice within the parameters of the offenses they are permitted to handle.

Regarding other options, representation for all types of criminal offenses is not accurate as paralegals cannot represent clients in more serious indictable matters; conducting criminal investigations is generally beyond the scope of their practice and is usually undertaken by law enforcement; and acting as a judge in minor criminal cases is not a role assigned to paralegals, as judicial responsibilities are reserved for duly appointed judges.