What Are the Benefits of Paralegal Certification?
Multiple professional organizations offer certification for paralegals at the state and national level. As of 2009, only California has instituted regulation of the term paralegal, requiring certification by an American Bar Association Approved program or grandfathering in with three previous years of experience to use the title. In all other states, paralegal certification can enhance career prospects.
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Types of Certification
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Certification is provided by both national and state professional organizations. Among these, one of the most widely recognized is NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants). NALA provides a two-day examination to obtain the title Certified Legal Assistant (CLA), which is sometimes also referred to as Certified Paralegal (CP), as well as an Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC) education program. Other organizations, such as the NALS (National Association for Legal Professionals), the NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations), and the AAPI (American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.), offer certification programs of their own design. Some states have instituted voluntary certification programs.
Employment Prospects
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Experience plays a heavy role in hiring decisions in the paralegal field. Nothing can substitute for experience, but a paralegal certification can give you the edge over other applicants for employment.
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Salary
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According to the NALA, certification and membership in professional organizations tends to correlate with higher salaries. Certification indicates a greater degree of knowledge specific to the field, allowing you to forgo some training that would otherwise be required.
Future Regulation
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As of 2009, states do not generally impose certification requirements for use of the term paralegal, with the exception of California. Future laws may impose certification requirements. By obtaining certification now, you minimize the impact future legislation may have upon you.
Ethical and Education Obligations
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Certification and membership in professional organization can impose ethical requirements and continuing legal education requirements. Each organization places it own requirements upon its members for continued membership. For instance, NALA maintains the Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and Guildelines for Enforcement. Regardless of certification, paralegals are always obliged to avoid the Unauthorized Practice of Law, which is defined by state legislatures.
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