Please note: This course is free for all registrants of the Practice Fundamentals Program. As a registrant you can access this content on the LESA Classroom when logged into your LESA.org account. If you were called to the Alberta bar prior to 2024, you can purchase this course by clicking “Add to Cart”.

For newly called-to-the-bar or junior lawyers, learning how to supervise legal support staff is an important part of developing a successful practice. While it may not be your primary responsibility, the way you oversee and collaborate with support staff directly affects your efficiency, client service, and the overall environment of your workplace. A well-guided assistant ensures that tasks are completed accurately and on time, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most: practicing law instead of being weighed down by administrative duties.

Effective supervision also helps build client or organizational trust, as they see that your team consistently delivers professional, reliable work. Taking an intentional approach to guiding staff fosters smoother workflows, encourages leadership skills, and demonstrates respect for the contributions of others. Over time, these practices strengthen your professional reputation, laying the foundation for growth and success in your legal career. In fact, when assistants feel supported and trusted, they may choose to follow you as you move between firms or organizations over the course of your lengthy legal career, further strengthening relationships and ensuring minimal disruption to your practice.

This course will take approximately one hour to complete.

This course relates to practice management, which is one of the domains in the Law Society of Alberta’s Professional Development Profile for Alberta Lawyers.