When Ontario landlords start looking for help with an LTB matter, they often wonder whether they need a lawyer or a paralegal. For LTB proceedings, the answer is almost always a paralegal — and understanding why helps you make a better decision.

The LTB Is a Tribunal, Not a Court

The Landlord and Tenant Board is an administrative tribunal with its own rules, procedures, and adjudicators. Paralegals are fully licensed by the Law Society of Ontario to represent clients at the LTB, and many paralegals who focus on landlord-tenant matters have more LTB-specific experience than most lawyers.

Paralegals Are Licensed Representatives

In Ontario, paralegals are regulated professionals licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. They can represent landlords at the LTB, Small Claims Court (matters up to $35,000), and certain other tribunals. For LTB matters, a paralegal’s scope of practice covers everything a landlord needs — from serving notices to full hearing representation.

The Cost Difference Is Significant

Lawyers typically bill at substantially higher rates than paralegals. For an LTB matter — an administrative proceeding, not a complex civil case — paying lawyer rates is generally not necessary and often not cost-effective. Paralegals who specialize in landlord-tenant matters bring focused expertise at a more appropriate cost structure.

Specialization Matters

A paralegal firm that focuses exclusively on landlord matters handles LTB proceedings every day. They know the forms, the adjudicators, the common pitfalls, and the regional differences across LTB locations. A generalist lawyer handling an occasional LTB matter doesn’t bring the same practical depth.

When You Might Actually Need a Lawyer

Situations that go beyond the LTB — Superior Court enforcement, complex real estate transactions with tenancy complications, certain human rights matters — may warrant legal counsel. A focused paralegal firm will tell you honestly if your situation needs a lawyer.

Stonegate is a landlord-side paralegal firm focused exclusively on Ontario landlord-tenant matters. Book a free discovery call to talk through your situation. Also see: How Stonegate handles your case.