Are you looking into joining the paralegal profession but wonder if you need to graduate from one of those paralegal certificate programs to do so? Many people in this position wonder whether this is the case. Paralegals are one of the most essential roles within the operations of most every law firm. As we've previously posted, paralegals carry many responsibilities that enable attorneys they work for to carry out their role servicing clients in court, as well as, acquiring more clients.
It is recommended by the National Federation of Paralegal Association recommends a bachelor's degree for those wanting to become a paralegal, only about 50% of existing paralegals have one according to a 2001 national survey. However, for those that want to really compete in this job market going forward, a paralegal certificate is fast becoming the standard requirement. Law firms are like any other company, and with the current economic conditions and tight job market, a certificate will at least give you a partial leg up.
It is important to make sure whatever paralegal certificate program you enroll in is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). This is increasingly important since most attorneys will require it, and it will be one of the first questions they'll ask you during an interview. Typically, you'll need a bachelor's degree, understanding of legal ethics, vocabulary and experience to enroll. Depending on the program, they may even require a minimum GPA, but this is not the norm.
Take note that if you do not have a paralegal certificate, you'll still be able to get a job as one in any state except California, you'll just have to make up for less credentials through experience working in a legal capacity of some sort, or you'll have to otherwise impress the interviewing attorneys.
Two organizations currently grant paralegal certificates. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), and the National Federation of Paralegal Associates (NFPA). Both require certification through passage of an exam, but have differing overall requirements. The NFPA requires a bachelor's degree with at least 2 years paralegal experience.
It is recommended by the National Federation of Paralegal Association recommends a bachelor's degree for those wanting to become a paralegal, only about 50% of existing paralegals have one according to a 2001 national survey. However, for those that want to really compete in this job market going forward, a paralegal certificate is fast becoming the standard requirement. Law firms are like any other company, and with the current economic conditions and tight job market, a certificate will at least give you a partial leg up.
It is important to make sure whatever paralegal certificate program you enroll in is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). This is increasingly important since most attorneys will require it, and it will be one of the first questions they'll ask you during an interview. Typically, you'll need a bachelor's degree, understanding of legal ethics, vocabulary and experience to enroll. Depending on the program, they may even require a minimum GPA, but this is not the norm.
Take note that if you do not have a paralegal certificate, you'll still be able to get a job as one in any state except California, you'll just have to make up for less credentials through experience working in a legal capacity of some sort, or you'll have to otherwise impress the interviewing attorneys.
Two organizations currently grant paralegal certificates. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), and the National Federation of Paralegal Associates (NFPA). Both require certification through passage of an exam, but have differing overall requirements. The NFPA requires a bachelor's degree with at least 2 years paralegal experience.
Learn more about paralegal certificate programs. Stop by Liz Morgan's site where you can find out all about paralegal work and how to become a certified paralegal.
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