September 19, 2025 | Manitoba

If you live in Manitoba and have ever imagined yourself working in the heart of the legal world, supporting lawyers, managing important documents, and keeping a law office running smoothly, becoming a Legal Administrative Assistant could be your ideal career path. This role blends organization, communication, and legal knowledge into a profession that is both stable and rewarding. 

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know. A step-by-step guide from understanding the role and its requirements to mapping out your education and skills you need in Manitoba.  

Understanding the Role of a Legal Administrative Assistant 

A Legal Administrative Assistant is the backbone of a law office. You are the person who ensures that lawyers, paralegals, and clients have the information, documents, and scheduling support they need. Your work may involve: 

• Drafting and proofreading legal documents 
• Managing case files and correspondence 
• Scheduling court dates and client meetings 
• Handling confidential information with discretion 
• Using specialized legal software for research and document management 

In Manitoba, Legal Administrative Assistants work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and even real estate offices. The skills you develop are transferable across many areas of law, including family, criminal, corporate, and real estate law. 

How Do I Become a Legal Administrative Assistant in Manitoba? 

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements 

Before you can start training, you need to ensure you meet the entry requirements for most Legal Administrative Assistant programs in Manitoba. These typically include: 

• Education: A high school diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent. 
• Mature Student Status: If you are 19 or older and have been out of school for at least a year, you may qualify as a mature student. 
• English Language Proficiency: Strong written and spoken English skills are essential, as you will be drafting and reviewing legal documents. 
   

Some programs also require you to pass an entrance exam to assess your readiness for the coursework. 

Step 2: Choose the Right Training Program 

While it is possible to learn some administrative skills on the job, the employers usually prefer candidates who have completed a recognized Legal Administrative Assistant program. 

One option is the Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma Program offered by CDI College in Manitoba. This 41-week program combines classroom learning with practical training, covering: 
 

• Law Office Procedures: Understanding how a legal office operates day-to-day. 
• Legal Specialties: Courses in family law, criminal law, corporate law, wills and estates, and real estate law. 
• Software Skills: Training in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and legal-specific software like PC Law and Quicklaw. 
• Business Communication: Business English, proofreading, and effective writing for legal contexts. 
• Practicum Placement: A 140-hour real-world practicum to apply your skills in a legal setting.
   

This combination of theory and hands-on experience ensures you graduate with both the knowledge and the confidence to step into your first role. 

Step 3: Learn the Legal Landscape in Manitoba 

Understanding the provincial legal system is crucial. Manitoba’s court system includes the Provincial Court, the Court of King’s Bench, and the Court of Appeal. Each has its own procedures, and as a Legal Administrative Assistant, you will need to know how to prepare and file documents for each. 
 

You will also need to be familiar with: 

• The Law Society of Manitoba: The governing body for lawyers in the province. 
• Provincial Legislation: Laws specific to Manitoba, such as The Family Maintenance Act or The Real Property Act. 
• Federal Laws: Criminal Code of Canada, Divorce Act, and other national legislation.
   

Your training program will introduce you to these areas, but staying informed through legal news and updates will help you stand out in the job market. 

Step 4: Develop Essential Skills 

Beyond legal knowledge, employers look for a specific set of skills in Legal Administrative Assistants: 

• Attention to Detail: Legal documents must be accurate and error-free. 
• Organization: Managing multiple cases and deadlines requires strong time management. 
• Communication: You will interact with clients, lawyers, court staff, and other professionals. 
• Confidentiality: Handling sensitive information is a core part of the job. 
• Technical Proficiency: Comfort with office software and legal databases is essential. 

These skills are developed through your coursework, practicum, and any related work experience you gain along the way. 

Step 5: Gain Work Experiences 

It will make you stand out from other candidates without any experience. One of the most valuable parts of a program like CDI College’s is the practicum placement. This is your opportunity to work in a real legal environment, applying what you have learned in class. 
 

During your practicum, you might: 

• Prepare court documents for filing 
• Organize case files for upcoming trials 
• Assist with client intake and correspondence 
• Use legal software to manage case information 

A successful practicum can lead directly to a job offer, as many employers prefer to hire someone they have already trained in their office systems. 

Step 6: Apply for Jobs and Build Your Career 

Once you have your diploma and practicum experience, you are ready to enter the job market. In Manitoba, Legal Administrative Assistants can work in: 

• Private law firms 
• Corporate legal departments 
• Government agencies 
• Real estate offices 
• Non-profit organizations 

When applying for jobs, highlight your practicum experience, software skills, and knowledge of Manitoba’s legal system. Tailor your resume to each position, and be prepared to discuss how you can support the legal team’s work effectively. 

Step 7: Continue Your Professional Development 

The legal field is always evolving. New laws, technologies, and procedures mean that ongoing learning is essential. You can: 

• Take short courses in emerging areas of law 
• Attend workshops offered by the Law Society of Manitoba 
• Join professional associations for networking opportunities 
• Explore advanced training to become a paralegal or legal researcher 
   

By continuing to build your skills, you can open doors to higher-paying positions and more specialized roles. 

 
Final Thoughts 

Becoming a Legal Administrative Assistant in Manitoba is a clear and achievable goal if you follow the right steps. Start by meeting the basic requirements, choose a reputable training program like the one offered by CDI College, and take full advantage of your practicum to gain real-world experience. 

This career offers stability, variety, and the satisfaction of playing a vital role in the legal process. Whether you are just starting out or looking for a career change, the path to becoming a Legal Administrative Assistant can lead to a fulfilling future in Manitoba’s legal community.