Studying for Certification

Every officially recognized definition of a paralegal includes language providing that paralegals may become qualified for the duties of their profession by either work experience or formal educational training.  Such a broad variety of means for entry into a professional career is rather unusual in modern society and can make it difficult for a prospective employer to compare and evaluate actual qualifications and abilities among various prospective employees.

To help address such issues, a number of professional associations and organizations have established criteria for designations or professional credentials a paralegal may receive to verify the level of his or her professional paralegal skills and abilities development.  These credentials are valuable both in securing a job and career advancement.  Each credentialing organization has slightly differing, but very specific, qualifications that must be satisfied.  Most require satisfaction of at least one of several alternative educational requirements. The alternative educational options available are usually based on the type of education an individual has selected and the qualification associated with his or her educational institution’s curriculum.  For example, differing experience requirements may apply for the same credential to those holding four-year bachelor’s degrees than those holding two-year associate’s degrees or certificates.

A certificate is often awarded by a business or other specialized proprietary school and may consist of an entirely Internet-based or “online” educational program, an entirely classroom based program, or a combination of the two.  Admission requirements, program structure, and course requirements as well as the length of time it takes to complete a program vary among schools and are all important factors to consider when deciding on the type of education and school that suits you best.

The aspects of one program making it the best fit for one student may be irrelevant to the needs of another. Students have differing individual needs and preferences so no one program or type of education is truly best for all. A certificate program is an educational option providing the educational experience and development necessary that may offer a perfect way to enter the paralegal field while working at another unrelated job or those students unable to attend classroom sessions for a variety of reasons. Yet it probably does not fit or appeal to a student desiring, or needing, traditional classroom style education.

Accreditation and curriculum content of an education program are always important elements to consider. The accreditation status of a particular certificate program, or the accrediting entity, may or may not satisfy a particular individual’s specific credentialing needs or desires. Whether or not a particular certificate, or degree, program satisfies the requirements of one or more of the credentialing entities may depend on whether or not it is approved or accredited by one or more third party accrediting organizations or associations. The curriculum and completion requirements of paralegal certificate programs vary a great deal.

The American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), the National Association of Paralegals (NALA), and the American Alliance of Paralegals (AAPI) have each developed paralegal core competency criteria. While a certificate program may provide the perfect education and develop precisely the paralegal skills and abilities needed for one person’s career plans, another person may determine that their plans dictate a two- or four-year degree is necessary. Careful attention and consideration should be given to the education requirements necessary for you to achieve your future goals and objectives as a paralegal professional.

For example, educational programs approved by the American Bar Association must satisfy stringent qualification requirements and are continually supervised by the ABA’s Standing Committee on Paralegals. Determining if a particular certificate program you are considering is approved by the American Bar Association or if an ABA approved program is important or necessary for your needs is an important determination for any individual embarking on education for a career in the paralegal profession.  Each person must make a personal determination of what aspects of their education will be essential in his or her personal career; thoughtful evaluation may lead you to the decision that a certificate program is the right choice for you.