A Basic Overview of Paralegal Organizations
June 19, 2016 By
As with many other professions, the paralegal industry is one guided by various professional organizations and associations. The purpose of these organizations is to ensure a uniform operation among all paralegals. Because this industry is one established upon specific philosophies and legalities, these associations ensure paralegals not only conduct themselves in a standardized way, but that they are also protected.
While you may think the primary responsibility of a paralegal organization is to simply provide certification to these professionals, its actual purpose is far greater. These organizations are gathered around the cornerstone of career advancement and progression of your working knowledge. They often offer continuing education courses, which now include the option to gain your paralegal certificate online, expanding your working knowledge within specific topics as well as trade papers discussing the most essential information for a paralegal.
If you’re interested in solidifying your career as a paralegal and wish to progress your working knowledge, then you’ll need to understand the various organizations who are nationally recognized. These organizations include:
National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
The National Federation of Paralegal Associations is a no n-profit association established in 1974 to monitor the ethics and legislation regarding the paralegal profession. AS with many other national paralegal associations and organizations, NFPA works hand-in-hand with the American Bar Association as well as other national organizations to offer 360-degree coverage within the paralegal industry.
Of course, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations offers various certification examinations. These examinations are recognized as the leading model for categorizing and demonstrating the aptitude of a working paralegals. Because of this, many employers highly recommend obtaining an NFPA certification.
National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
With a membership roster boasting over 18,000 paralegals, the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers world-class certification programs, continuing education opportunities and other training modules to keep you on the cutting edge of this dynamic industry. If you’re searching for a certification to truly enhance your marketability and skills within this profession, then the Certified Paralegal Certificate is your ideal choice. This unique certification is recognized and accredited by the American Bar Association.
In order to become eligible for this certification, you must meet one of the several eligibility requirements. These vary according to education level, previous certifications and work experience. If you’re looking to enhance your marketability to employers or demonstrate your above-average understanding of this industry, then this is the professional organization for you.
National Paralegal Association (NPA)
Unlike many of the other professional organizations for paralegals, the National Paralegal Association is actually an international organization. The primary purpose of this association is to develop and implement programs and other various benefits for individual paralegals as well law firms, corporate legal departments and other organizations within this profession. The greatest benefit of the NPA is its ability to provide member with a host of employment opportunities and exclusive networking events.