Legal Services for PARA Members
Resident physicians can access legal support through PARA’s Legal Counsel. PARA will cover the first one-hour consultation so you can get timely guidance when you need it.
Members may seek legal guidance for concerns involving:
- Employment or contract questions
- Professional responsibilities
- Civil law such as wills, property ownership and family law
Residents who require more than one session for different inquiries are encouraged to reach out directly to PARA. Members may also choose to seek support through CMPA or any of the other resources listed below.
Note: the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) provides medico-legal advice and assistance to resident physicians and can help with matters such as:
- If you are the subject of a college complaint
- If you are the subject of a hospital complaint or investigation
- Your patient has suffered an adverse event
- Your patient has threatened legal action
- You are being sued
The CMPA is often your first point of contact in these situations. Resident physicians pay CMPA membership fees which allows access to medico-legal advice and assistance at no additional cost.
If the CMPA confirms that your matter is outside their mandate, please complete our Legal Services Inquiry Form and we will connect you with our legal team.
How the Service Works
1. Submit Your Inquiry
Complete the online form below.
2. PARA Verifies Your Membership
PARA reviews your submission to confirm you are an active member. If clarification is needed, we will follow up before your inquiry is referred.
3. Connect With the Legal Team
Your verified inquiry is forwarded to PARA’s Legal Counsel, who will review your information and begin your consultation.
What You Can Expect
- PARA will cover the first one-hour legal consultation.
- Costs for ongoing or additional legal services beyond the first hour are the responsibility of the member.
- Members may also access other specialized lawyers within the firm or receive a referral to an external lawyer, at their own cost.
- PARA’s role is to facilitate the referral; we do not provide legal advice.
Additional Support Resources
You can also find support through the following programs and offices: