Travelling and Practicing Law: 5 Tips for Staying Prepared as a Licensed Paralegal

Social media post: What I carry in my travel bag for my virtual law firm (Curacoa) - Instagram

Let's be honest in today's world, organization and time management sometimes feel like a privileged skill to have. With almost 18 years of experience, I have picked up the do's and dont's on running an ideal practice by watching actions from multiple prospectives. Now - I get to practice and explore the world.

I never thought I would have my dream career as I do today - I have created a life where I can see what the world has to offer, teach, practice along with part-time law school.

I have my boating operator license - This photo was taken in Curacoa during my commercial boating lessons.

As a travelling, licensed paralegal with a sole practice, I’ve learned that balancing mobility, client service, and regulatory obligations is both a challenge and an opportunity to reshape the narrative of what a law practice looks like. Opening myself to opportunities to see how other cultures operate, has provided a heavy boost in my cultural competence as a licensee.

My practice spans in AGCO matters and representation, small claims court, criminal summary offences, and landlord and tenant disputes. While the freedom of a mobile practice is unmatched, it also comes with the responsibility to be consistently prepared— no matter where the next client or court appearance takes me.

It is not just simply digital files and basic equipment, it is about creating accessibility for you to be able to work actively and productively while adhering to your licensee obligations put in place by the LSO. Let's be clear, you are required to have organization, delegation and analytical skills in order to make your remote practice successful - It is imperative!

I have had meetings while on the beach with my trusty noise cancelling headphones, while utilizing apps and programs that all me to review disclosure and evidence where I have the ability to mark up my digital copies.

The Triangle - Remote Worker Office Space - Curacoa (Business District)

Part of preparation is choosing the right work spaces and preparing to work and putting your analytical skills into practice.

Once you have chosen where to work, now we get to the real advocacy in preparation for our clients.

Here are five key tips on the importance of preparation while practising law on the move:

1. Know Your Cases Inside and Out

Whether appearing before the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the Landlord and Tenant Board, or in small claims or criminal court, preparation starts with a deep understanding of the matter. Traveling should never mean being reactive. I maintain organized case files—both digitally and physically—to ensure I can reference precedents, client communications, and evidentiary documents at a moment’s notice. Being prepared builds credibility, saves time, and reduces the stress of last-minute scrambling.

Preparing on my flight, while in transit.

2. Plan Your Logistics Ahead of Time

Courtrooms, tribunal hearings, and client meetings often happen in multiple cities. Travel adds complexity to scheduling, document submission, and attendance. I make it a practice to confirm locations, timelines, and required documentation in advance. Planning travel, court filing deadlines, and client consultations ensures I meet obligations efficiently while avoiding missed deadlines—a critical component of compliance under LSO rules.

3. Maintain Digital Readiness

A mobile paralegal must leverage technology to remain prepared. I use secure cloud storage for client files, digital calendars for deadlines, and communication tools for client updates. This digital readiness allows me to work seamlessly across jurisdictions and provides a quick backup plan in case of unexpected delays. The key is balancing convenience with strict adherence to confidentiality and security obligations under the Law Society of Ontario’s (LSO) regulations.

A preview of my supplementary tools I use to maintain my digital readiness.

4. Keep Professional Obligations Front and Center

Traveling shouldn’t mean compromising professional ethics. As a licensee, I must always adhere to LSO obligations, including client confidentiality, competence, and timely communication. I schedule dedicated time to review rules, manage conflicts of interest, and ensure my practice meets regulatory standards—no matter where I am. Preparation isn’t just about cases—it’s about consistently upholding the professional responsibilities that protect clients and the integrity of the profession.

5. Build Contingency Plans

When practicing on the move, unpredictability is inevitable. Court schedules change, client availability shifts, and travel disruptions occur. I always prepare contingency plans: alternative hearing dates, backup documents, and digital access to all case materials. Anticipating potential obstacles not only reduces stress but ensures clients experience seamless service even when life throws a curveball.

Final Thoughts

A mobile, sole-practice paralegal career offers freedom and flexibility, but it also demands discipline, foresight, and a strong adherence to professional obligations. Being prepared—logistically, digitally, and ethically—is essential to providing exceptional service across AGCO matters, small claims, criminal summary offences, and landlord and tenant cases. For licensees like me, preparation is more than a habit; it’s the foundation of professional excellence, client trust, and a sustainable travelling practice.

Until next time - May justice guide your journey both on and off the record.

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BONUS:

I love movies! On the last Friday of the month, I will be sharing well known, favourite court/legal dilemma scenes and will pose a legal question to gain insight on what legal professionals have to say!

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Until next time - may justice guide your journey both on and off the record.

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