What Is a Paralegal Certificate?

A paralegal certificate is a diploma that you receive after completing accredited courses in paralegal studies. While holding a paralegal certificate, you are prohibited from giving legal advice to clients, but you can assist a licensed lawyer in delivering legal services.

Significance

Paralegal certificates confirm that the legal assistant has received formal education, proper training and experience to allow him to do legal work under the supervision of a lawyer.

Function

A paralegal certificate allows the legal assistant to conduct interviews with clients and document research. Paralegals can also draft legal documents and summarize depositions and testimonies.

Training

Unless the legal assistant has a minimum of 3 years of in house training, candidates for a paralegal certificate must graduate from an approved program. The certificate is given after successfully completing the Certifying Legal Assistant examination.

Considerations

For legal assistants who have certificates, consider more options than just a private law firm. Insurance companies, major corporations and some financial institutions often employ paralegals.

Benefits

Paralegal certificate programs are offered in many lengths and formats; they are available in approximately 600 education programs located in the United States. Because of its convenience, the program attracts people with diverse backgrounds and schedules.

Potential

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an above-average growth rate for paralegal certificates within the first decade of the twenty-first century.