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.