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Paralegal Honours Bachelor Degree: Building advocates for court and community

For Jalen Brown, a third-year student in Durham College’s (DC) Paralegal Honours Bachelor Degree program, classroom learning is already translating into real-world impact.

Under the guidance of faculty member Dalton Burger, Brown recently represented a client and conducted a cross-examination in a small claims court case based on a real case.

“Being able to apply my knowledge in a real-life scenario in front of Professor Burger, who is a real judge, was really exciting,” said Brown. “The insights I gained from Professor Burger have fueled my desire to pursue my studies on a deeper level.”

Hands-on learning: From classroom to courtroom
Brown’s opportunity to practice his skills in a real courtroom highlights the program’s emphasis on practical, hands-on experience.

“Through real-world exercises, such as mock trials and legal research projects, students move beyond textbooks and put their legal knowledge into practice,” said Burger, who has been involved in the program for 15 years. Burger often uses his years of experience as a lawyer to develop scenarios that reflect the reality of what future paralegals can expect in their careers.  “Having worked as a practising lawyer, adjudicator and now a Deputy Judge, I have seen a lot of great advocacy that can be shared to help students apply their knowledge in a way that reflects what we see in legal practise. In return, students learn to interpret and apply legislation effectively, gaining the skills and confidence needed to succeed on the licensing exam and advocate for clients and their communities as future legal professionals.”

Community, justice and inclusion
What really sets DC’s program apart though, said Burger, is its focus on a more inclusive justice system.  Beyond core legal training, the program encourages students to engage with real community issues and marginalized voices. This experiential approach helps future paralegals understand how the law affects people differently and why inclusive advocacy is essential in today’s legal landscape.

For a Constitutional Law project, Brown invited an Indigenous speaker to share their lived experience. “Indigenous peoples in Canada continue to face systemic challenges,” he explained. “I wanted to create a space for truth-telling and meaningful dialogue. These are not abstract concepts; they are daily realities that shape lives and communities.”

Brown also took his learning beyond campus by participating with Professor Burger in the Braiding Diversity into Justice initiative, organized by the Ontario Justice Education Network and judges from the Oshawa Courthouse. The program introduces young people from diverse backgrounds to legal professionals, encouraging them to see themselves represented in the legal system and inspiring future pathways in law. “My goal was to make sure that students were aware that opportunities exist for them in this field and that there is an important role they can play,” he said.

This unique approach helps students like Brown develop leadership, confidence, and the ability to advocate for others.

“I am proud that our graduates have the knowledge, skills and experience to represent clients in court, as well as the ability to consider the broader social and policy implications of the law,” said Burger.

The Paralegal Honours Bachelor Degree program prepares graduates to be confident and effective advocates who can help build a more just and inclusive society.

Ready to begin your legal career? Learn more and apply to the Paralegal Honours Bachelor Degree program.

The First Peoples Indigenous Centre welcomes all at Durham College

Nestled within the Centre for Collaborative Education is an inclusive space dedicated to supporting Indigenous students at Durham College (DC).

First opened in 2011, the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC) was given the Anishinaabemowin name Suswaaning Endaajig, “a nest away from home,” by Elder and Traditional Knowledge Keeper Gerard Sagassige. Since then, its mission has centred on reconciliation, cultural awareness, and creating opportunities for Indigenous students to succeed while staying connected to their heritage.

It also plays a crucial role in raising awareness of Indigenous cultures and histories among DC students, faculty members and employees, bridging the gap between communities and promoting healing and inclusivity.

“FPIC is a resource for anyone interested in learning about Indigenous cultures, histories, and ways of knowing. We offer a range of programs and events that promote cultural understanding and reconciliation, and we encourage everyone to get involved,” explained Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director of Indigenous Initiatives and a member of Walpole Island First Nation. “We provide cultural resources, academic support, and a sense of community. FPIC is a place where students can come together to learn, grow, and build mutual respect.”

When FPIC’s doors are open between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., all are welcome to stop in for a visit. Whether exploring their Indigenous identities or finding a quiet spot to study, it’s a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life. The coffee is always on and Sherry Miller, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator and a member of Wasauksing First Nation, is always ready to greet visitors with a smile.

“We’re a strong support system for Indigenous students. We offer a sense of home and a strong sense of community,” said Miller, who is passionate about providing a warm and safe environment for those who need it.

“I know there are certain places where Indigenous youth don’t feel safe or they don’t feel welcome. When they come in here, there’s no judgment. Having a space dedicated to them where they can feel safe is important.”

One such space within FPIC is the Elder’s Room. It’s a place for quiet reflection as well as smudging, a sacred ceremony in which traditional medicines like sage, cedar and sweetgrass are burned to purify body, mind, heart and Spirit.

For Kiana Cress, Indigenous Communities Outreach Coordinator and a member of Garden River First Nation, joining the FPIC team feels like a natural extension of the time she spent in similar facilities during her own post-secondary journey. Much of it was spent researching the influence of the education system on Indigenous identities, cultures and languages, making her ideally suited for the task of building new relationships and communities at DC.

“Working directly with Indigenous people is very fulfilling professionally, but also personally,” she said. “Places like FPIC show that Indigenous folks are still here. We’re learners and we’re academics.”

With its commitment to building relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities at DC, FPIC is supporting the cause of reconciliation. Students and employees can do the same by educating themselves on the resiliency of Indigenous people, their histories and current issues, and by building respectful and reciprocal relationships with their communities.

“My experience at FPIC and DC has been incredibly fulfilling,” said Dr. Murphy. “Whether it’s planning cultural celebrations or providing educational workshops, we’re making a real difference.”

Durham College is dedicated to advancing truth and reconciliation by weaving Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the fabric of our campus. Explore this content collection to learn about the resources, supports and opportunities that are available on campus.