Paralegal certification is a voluntary program in which an association grants a renewable designation to a paralegal verified to have met standardized criteria, normally a combination of education and professional experience.

Examination-Based Certifications

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal program consists of a two-day examination covering communications, ethics, legal research, judgment and analytical ability, general law and four elective substantive law areas. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations PACE Registered Paralegal program consists of a four-hour, five-part examination covering administration of client legal matters, development of client legal matters, factual and legal research, factual and legal writing, and office administration.

Non-Examination Certification

The American Alliance of Paralegals AACP program is unique in that is does not require an examination. However, education and experience criteria are more stringent than other certifications.

Renewal and Continuing Legal Education

NALA Certified Paralegals renew certification every five years and complete 50 hours of continuing legal education, including five hours of ethics. PACE Registered Paralegals renew certification every two years and complete 12 hours of continuing legal education, including one hour of ethics. AACPs renew certification every two years and complete 18 hours of continuing legal education, including two hours of ethics.

Advanced Certification

NALA offers curriculum-based advanced certification in contracts, discovery, social security disability, trial practice, alternative dispute resolution, business organizations and trademarks.

State-Specific Certification

State-specific certification is offered in Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas.

Source:

National Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. CLA/CP Program

National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc. PACE Registered Paralegal Program

American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc. offers the American Alliance Certified Paralegal Program

More Information:

NALA Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC)

NALS Professional Paralegal Certification