September 24, 2025 | Manitoba

If you live in Winnipeg and have ever thought about working in the legal field, you might have pictured yourself in a courtroom or working directly with lawyers. The truth is, behind every successful lawyer or paralegal is a skilled legal assistant. These professionals keep law offices running smoothly, manage important files, and ensure the entire team has the support they need to do their jobs effectively. 
 

The great news is that starting a career as a legal assistant in Winnipeg is not only possible, but also a clear and achievable path. You do not need years of law school or a costly degree to get started. With the right training and a focus on building practical skills, you can launch yourself into this rewarding profession in less than a year. 
 

In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to become a legal assistant in Winnipeg. We will explain what the role is all about, the key duties you will take on, the steps to enter the profession, and how CDI Colleges Legal Administrative Assistant program can help you gain skills and confidence in the field. 

What is a Legal Assistant? 

A legal assistant, sometimes called a legal administrative assistant, is the backbone of a law office. While lawyers and paralegals focus on legal arguments and case strategy, legal assistants handle the essential day-to-day administrative and technical tasks that keep the office organized. Think of a legal assistant as the person who keeps all the moving parts together. They are the first point of contact for clients, the people who prepare and file important documents, and the ones who make sure deadlines are met. Without them, law firms, government offices, and corporate legal departments simply could not function. 

In Winnipeg, legal assistants can be found in many different environments, such as: 
 

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

No matter where they work, the role offers stability, variety, and a sense of purpose. 

What are the Responsibilities and Duties of a Legal Assistant? 

When you decide to become a legal assistant in Winnipeg, it is important to know what your daily responsibilities will be like. While duties vary depending on the type of law office, here are some of the most common tasks a legal assistant in Winnipeg handles: 

Drafting and Proofreading Documents 

Legal Assistants may handle legal documents like contracts, affidavits, wills, and court forms. Accuracy is important because lawyers rely on them to spot and correct small errors before documents are filed or presented in court. However, a Legal Assistant does this using pre-set templates. They are not trained to draft legal documents from scratch only to fill in the blanks within existing templates.

Managing Case Files and Correspondence 

Every case comes with piles of paperwork, from evidence to correspondence. Legal assistants are responsible for organizing and updating case files so lawyers can access the information they need quickly. 

Scheduling and Calendar Management 

Law offices are deadline-driven environments. You will be the one scheduling court dates, client meetings, and filing deadlines, ensuring nothing is missed. 

Handling Confidential Information 

In this role, discretion is key. Legal assistants often deal with sensitive client information and must always maintain strict confidentiality. 

Using Legal Software 

From Microsoft Office to specialized programs like PC Law and Quicklaw, you will need to be comfortable with technology. These tools help with research, billing, and case management. 

Communication and Client Support 

You will often be the first voice or face clients encounter. Legal assistants answer questions, relay messages, and provide reassurance during stressful times. Strong communication skills go a long way in this profession. 

How to Become a Legal Assistant in Winnipeg 

Now let us get into the step-by-step process of how you can launch your career. 

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements 

Before you start training, make sure you meet the entry-level requirements most programs ask for: 
 

• 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 one year 
• Strong English skills, since written and spoken communication is critical in the legal world 
• In some cases, an entrance exam to assess your readiness for the program 
   

Step 2: Enrol in a Legal Administrative Assistant Program 

While some people pick up administrative skills on the job, the fastest and most effective way to become a legal assistant in Winnipeg is to complete a recognized diploma program. Employers are far more likely to hire candidates who already have the training and practical experience to step into the role confidently. One excellent option is the Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma at CDI College in Manitoba. This 41-week program combines classroom learning with a 140-hour practicum placement, giving you the perfect balance of theory and hands-on experience. The program covers: 

• Law office procedures 
• Legal specialties such as family law, criminal law, corporate law, wills and estates, and real estate law 
• Business English, proofreading, and effective legal writing 
• Software training in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PC Law, and Quicklaw 

By the time you graduate, you will have a professional diploma plus real-world practicum experience to display on your resume. 

Step 3: Learn the Legal Landscape in Manitoba 

Every province has its own legal system and procedures. As a legal assistant in Winnipeg, you will need to understand how Manitoba’s courts operate, including the Provincial Court, the Court of King’s Bench, and the Court of Appeal. You will also want to be familiar with: 

• The Law Society of Manitoba, which regulates lawyers in the province 
• Provincial legislation like The Real Property Act or The Family Maintenance Act 
• Key federal laws like the Criminal Code of Canada or the Divorce Act 

Training programs like CDI College’s introduce you to these systems, but it is smart to keep learning and stay up to date with legal developments. 

Step 4: Develop Your Core Skills 

Legal knowledge is important, but employers also want assistants who bring a strong set of transferable skills, including: 

• Attention to detail: Catching mistakes before they cost time or money 
• Organization: Juggling multiple deadlines and priorities 
• Communication: Writing professional emails and speaking confidently with clients and court staff 
• Confidentiality: Always protecting sensitive client information 
• Technical proficiency: Using legal software and office programs with ease 

These skills are built during your coursework, practicum, and any related work experience. 

Step 5: Complete Your Practicum Placement 

Hands-on experience is what sets strong candidates apart. During your practicum, you will get the chance to work in a legal environment. Some tasks you may take on include: 
 

• Preparing documents for court filings 
• Assisting with client intake interviews 
• Organizing trial binders and case files 
• Using legal software to manage case details 

This experience does not just build confidence; it also gives you valuable connections in Winnipeg’s legal community. In fact, many practicum placements lead directly to job offers. 

Step 6: Apply for Jobs 

Once you graduate, you are ready to hit the job market. In Winnipeg, legal assistants find opportunities in private law firms, government agencies, real estate companies, and corporate offices. When applying, tailor your resume to highlight: 
 

• Your practicum experience 
• Your knowledge of Manitoba’s legal system 
• Your software skills 
• Your organizational and communication strengths 
   

Be prepared to discuss how you can support the efficiency of the legal team and contribute to their success. 

Step 7: Keep Learning and Growing 

The legal field never stands still. To stay competitive, take short courses in emerging areas of law, attend workshops offered by the Law Society of Manitoba, and join professional associations for networking. Over time, you may even pursue advanced training to become a paralegal or legal researcher. 

How CDI College Can Help 

If you want to become a legal assistant in Winnipeg, CDI College offers one of the most comprehensive legal training programs in Manitoba. Here is what makes it stand out: 

• 41 weeks of training that combines theory and practical experience 
• 140-hour practicum placement to build real-world skills and connections 
• Industry-experienced instructors who know what it takes to succeed in the field 
• Small class sizes for more personalized instruction 
• Career services support for six months after graduation to help you land your first role 

The program covers everything from business English and proofreading to civil litigation, family law, corporate law, wills, and estates, and more. By graduation, you will have both the technical skills and the confidence to step into a legal office and make a difference from day one. 

Congratulations 

If you have read this far, you are already serious about your future career. Deciding to become a legal assistant in Winnipeg is the first step toward a stable, rewarding job that puts you right at the heart of the legal process. By following the path we have outlined, meeting the basic requirements, completing your training, gaining practical experience, and continuing your professional development you will be well on your way to success. 

And with CDI College’s Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma Program, you do not have to navigate the journey alone. You will get the guidance, support, and practical training you need to build a career you can be proud of. So, congratulations on taking this step. The legal community in Winnipeg needs dedicated, detail-oriented professionals like you. Now is the perfect time to start building your future as a legal assistant.