Paralegal Blog

Paralegal Certificate vs Paralegal Certification - Let’s clear up the confusion!

Mar 12, 2024 8:00:00 AM

Certificate vs Certified 1200x700 A paralegal certificate or degree is often required to qualify for paralegal job opportunities. Earning an academic credential significantly enhances employment opportunities for anyone seeking to diversify their career portfolio and showcase their qualifications for a legal position. Paralegals can obtain formal education through a training program like those available at Center for Advanced Legal Studies to earn a paralegal certificate or degree. Once paralegals have achieved a requisite level of education and experience, they may choose to seek a paralegal designation and become certified. Several national associations offer certification opportunities. However, paralegals who do not pursue certification through one of these associations are just as likely to enjoy long-term, career success. Paralegals are qualified to perform their responsibilities by completing an educational program, receiving training on the job, or through actual work experience.¹ A distinct advantage exists for paralegals who begin their career by earning an academic credential. As they progress, certification can add value to the expertise previously acquired through education, training, and experience.

Topics: paralegal certificate, paralegal degree, credentials, career, certification, education and training, featured

Advance Your Career! One Student’s Journey to a Paralegal Certificate.

Posted by Katie Fridsma

Sep 11, 2013 10:32:00 AM

David Mosier had already been working as a paralegal for decades when he enrolled to be a student at Center for Advanced Legal Studies. David was in the litigation support industry, and the job prospects were withering due to a declining economy. As an independent contractor, it was becoming increasingly difficult to land jobs.

A Legal Background

Ironically, David's father is one of the most prominent real estate attorneys in Harris County. Why did David not follow the well-worn footsteps of his father and become an attorney?

It certainly wasn't for lack of trying on his father's behalf. When David was in high school, he would help out at his father's busy law practice. He learned how the office ran and a little bit about the practice of law. But David went to college for music education, until life happened and he needed to drop out of school to take care of his new family. His father encouraged him to finish college and then go on to law school so David could carry on the family business.

But David chose a different path to the legal field. Since he already had a “mild background in the legal industry,” he and his brother started a litigation support business. For 25 years, that was enough, but five children later, David needed better security and a chance to make a better living.

Topics: paralegal certificate, paralegal degree, graduates and alumni, career, certification, education and training

Learn the Basics of a Paralegal Certificate Program

Posted by Katie Fridsma

Jul 26, 2013 2:42:00 PM

Paralegals can take several different paths to enter the legal profession. These typically involve different levels of education, on-the-job-training, and certifications. Where paralegals work and what specific tasks they perform, however, depends on the kind of skills, experience, and education they have.

Topics: online classes, paralegal certificate, paralegal degree, graduates and alumni, career, certification, education and training

Paralegals and the Impact of Continuing Education

Posted by Gail Armatys

May 15, 2013 10:43:00 AM

Topics: certification

Three Tips to Prepare for Your Paralegal Certification

Posted by Gail Armatys

Apr 5, 2013 2:44:00 PM

Paralegals play a huge role in the legal services industry. Their research expertise is highly valued by lawyers and judges who need relevant information for their cases.

Topics: certification, education and training