September 24, 2025 | Manitoba

If you have imagined yourself working in the legal field but do not want to spend years in law school, becoming a legal assistant might be the right fit. Legal assistants, often called legal administrative assistants, play a vital role in keeping law offices and court systems running smoothly. They handle the essential day-to-day tasks that allow lawyers and paralegals to focus on clients and cases. 
 

But here is the big question: what are the education requirements for becoming a legal assistant? The answer depends on where you live, the kind of employer you want to work for, and the level of responsibility you are aiming for. This blog breaks down the education pathways, skills you will need, and the training options available to start your career with confidence. 

What Does a Legal Assistant Do? 

Before we dive into education, let us look at what does a legal assistant do? Legal assistants are the people behind the scenes making sure deadlines are met, documents are accurate, and clients feel supported. Their duties often include:

• Drafting and proofreading legal documents 
• Scheduling court dates, client meetings, and hearings 
• Managing case files and correspondence 
• Using legal software for research and file management 
• Handling confidential information with discretion 
• Communicating with clients, court staff, and lawyers 

Because the work is so detail-oriented, employers want to know if you have the training and skills to handle the pressure. That is where education comes in. 

Basic Education Requirements 

Most legal assistant positions have a few non-negotiable entry requirements: 

High School Diploma or Equivalent 

The minimum requirement is typically a high school diploma (Grade 12) or its equivalent. Strong grades in English, business communication, or computer applications are especially helpful. 

Mature Student Status 

If you are 19 or older and have not finished high school, many colleges allow you to apply as a mature student. You may need to take an entrance exam to demonstrate readiness for post-secondary training. 

English Language Proficiency 

Because so much of the job involves reading, writing, and proofreading legal documents, strong English skills are essential. Some programs will ask for a language proficiency test if English is not your first language. 

Post-Secondary Training Options 

While a high school diploma is the minimum, employers increasingly prefer candidates who have completed a post-secondary program. Let us look at your main options. 

Diploma Programs 

The most common pathway is a Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma, typically taking less than a year to complete. These programs combine classroom instruction with practical training, covering topics such as: 

• Law office procedures 
• Business English and proofreading 
• Civil litigation, family law, and criminal law 
• Corporate and commercial law 
• Wills and estates 
• Real estate law 
• Software training (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PC Law, Quicklaw) 
   

Many programs also include a practicum placement where you gain real-world experience in a law office before graduating. This hands-on component is highly valued by employers. 

Certificates and Short Courses 

In some provinces, shorter certificate programs exist, focusing on core administrative skills with a legal emphasis. These can be a good entry point but may not offer the same depth of training as a full diploma. 

Bachelor’s Degree (Optional) 

While not required to become a legal assistant, some people choose to complete a bachelor’s degree in legal studies, criminal justice, or a related field. This is more common for those planning to advance into paralegal or law school later. 

Additional Skills and Knowledge 

Education requirements go beyond formal schooling. To succeed, you will need to develop a specific set of skills: 

• Attention to detail: Even minor errors in legal documents can have big consequences. 
• Organization: Law offices deal with multiple cases at once, each with strict deadlines. 
• Confidentiality: You will be trusted with sensitive client information. 
• Technical proficiency: Comfort with office software and legal databases is critical. 
• Communication: Both written and verbal communication need to be clear and professional. 

Most diploma programs are designed to build these skills through coursework and practicum experience. 

The Importance of Practicum Experience 

Classroom learning is valuable, but nothing prepares you for the legal field like real-world practice. Many diploma programs, including those offered in Manitoba, include a practicum placement often around 140 hours. During this placement, you may: 

• Draft documents for filing in court 
• Assist with client intake interviews 
• Organize files for upcoming trials 
• Use legal software to manage case information 

Not only does this give you confidence, but it also gives employers a chance to see you in action. In many cases, practicums lead directly to job offers. 

Meeting Provincial and Employer Expectations 

It is worth noting that education requirements can vary slightly from province to province and from employer to employer. For example: 

• Government agencies may require additional testing or certifications. 
• Large corporate firms may prefer candidates with more advanced technical training. 
• Small law offices might value hands-on practicum experience over academic credentials. 

Wherever you plan to work, completing a recognized diploma program shows employers that you are serious, prepared, and ready to take on responsibility. 

How CDI College Prepares You 

If you are wondering where to get started, CDI College offers a Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma Program designed to meet today’s employer’s expectations. In just 41 weeks, you will gain a solid foundation in law office administration, legal specialties, and professional communication. Highlights of the program include: 

• A 140-hour practicum placement for hands-on experience 
• Training in Microsoft Office and legal-specific software 
• Courses in civil litigation, family law, criminal law, corporate law, wills and estates, and real estate law 
• Experienced instructors with real-world expertise 
• Career services support for six months after graduation 

Final Thoughts 

So, what are the legal assistant education requirements? At the minimum, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. But if you want to stand out, the smartest path is completing a Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma Program. With this training, you will gain the technical skills, legal knowledge, and practical experience employers are looking for. The legal world depends on detail-oriented professionals who can manage the daily flow of cases, documents, and deadlines. With the right education, you can step into that role and build a stable, rewarding career. 

If you are ready to take the next step, consider programs like CDI College’s Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma. In less than a year, you could be on your way to a fulfilling career in the legal field.