National Association of Legal Assistants Paralegal Certification Eligibility Requirements

Whether you’re looking to enter the exciting field of a paralegal or wish to enhance your progression within this career field, a paralegal certification offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants is an excellent avenue to explore. This nationally recognized paralegal certificate clearly demonstrates your ability and talent within this dynamic profession. Because of this, many employers require paralegals to obtain this certificate in order to be considered for a promotion or even placement within the law firm.

The Certified Paralegal examination offered by NALA covers five primary knowledge and skill sections. These include: Communications, Ethics, Judgment/Analytical Ability, Legal Research as well as Substantive Law. Upon successfully completing this certification examination, your skills and ability to succeed in this profession is clearly demonstrated.

If you’re interested in taking the National Association of Legal Assistants Paralegal Certification, then you must ensure you meet its various eligibility requirements. As with other national paralegal certifications, there are many ways one can become eligible to sit for the examination. These include:

1.) Obtaining a bachelor’s degree within the realm of paralegal studies (also referred to as legal assistant studies). This pathway doesn’t require any work experience or additional certifications.

2.) Completing a bachelor’s degree in any field of study and completing a paralegal studies certificate program.

3.) Earning a bachelor’s degree in ny field of study as well as holding a minimum of one year work experience as a paralegal or legal assistant. However, if you’ve completed a minimum of 15 hours of legal courses, you may substitute the one year work experience.

4.) Completing an associate degree in paralegal studies, which does not require additional work experience or paralegal training.

5.) Successfully completing a paralegal studies program accredited by the American Bar Association. In order to meet this eligibility requirement you must complete a minimum of 60 or more credit hours; with 15 of these hours covering substantive legal topics.

6.) If you only have a high school diploma or a GED, you may quality to sit for the NALA Paralegal Certificate by holding a minimum of seven years work within the legal setting as a paralegal or a legal assistant. Along with the work experience, you must have also completed a minimum of 20 continuing education credits within the realm of legal studies within a timespan of two years prior to sitting for the certification examination.