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Paralegal Certification

In order to compete and gain additional credibility, paralegals can also opt to become certified paralegals in order to qualify for the best paralegal jobs.  Taking the important steps to become certified shows a commitment to the industry and a command of the skills and knowledge required for the paralegal profession.  Being certified can increase a paralegal’s earning potential and professional credibility.

There are three professional organizations that offer certifications that require a combination of a standardized exam and a certain work experience requirements.

  • National Association of Legal Assistants – Earn the Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal (CLA/CP) designation.  While you can become certified right out of school, it is common for paralegals to gain a few valuable years of work experience first.  The CLA/CP certification includes a two-day standardized exam.
  • National Federation of Paralegal Associations – Earn the Registered Paralegal (RP) distinction.  The RP certification includes a two-day standardized exam.
  • American Alliance of Paralegals – Renders the American Alliance Certification Program (AACP).  An exam is not required to earn the AACP certification.  Paralegals with five years worth of work experience who have met the educational requirements are able to apply for certification.

It is important to recognize these professional paralegal certificates are not the same as the paralegal certificate that can be earned through a community college.  This distinction may not be quite so clear for employers who are looking to hire a certified paralegal.  Should you find a company looking to hire a certified paralegal, chances are they are looking for a paralegal who has been certified through one of these regulatory boards.

Additionally, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offers the “PACE Registered Paralegal” certificate and the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offer the “Certified Legal Assistant” certification.  Paralegals who have earned these certifications and work for companies that are members of these professional regulatory organizations will receive salary increases faster than their peers who do not.

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