Top 11 Bankruptcy Paralegal Certifications

Certifications for bankruptcy paralegals are important for a variety of reasons. First, certifications show employers that the individual has a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding in the field. This can help them stand out from other job applicants who lack certification. Additionally, certification can ensure that the paralegal is up-to-date on relevant laws and regulations, as well as best practices in the industry. Certification also verifies that they have achieved a certain level of professional competency and can be trusted to handle complex legal matters with accuracy and efficiency. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for further career advancement, such as higher salaries or promotions to higher positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Bankruptcy Paralegals, and explain how they can help to enhance a bankruptcy paralegal's career.

What are Bankruptcy Paralegal Certifications?

Bankruptcy paralegal certification is a professional qualification program designed to help paralegals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to assist attorneys in handling bankruptcy cases. This certification is offered through a variety of organizations, including the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), The Institute for Paralegal Education (IPE), and The American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI).

The certification program typically involves completing courses that cover topics such as bankruptcy law, filing procedures, debtor rights and obligations, and other related topics. Upon successful completion of the coursework, the paralegal will receive a certificate or diploma verifying their expertise in the area of bankruptcy law.

Having a bankruptcy paralegal certification can be extremely beneficial for those looking to break into the legal field or for those already working in it. It demonstrates to employers that you have an understanding of bankruptcy law and have taken the time to become certified. In addition, having this certification can open up opportunities for advancement within the field as well as access to higher paying positions. Finally, having this certification can also give you an edge over other job applicants when applying for positions in the field.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a bankruptcy paralegal, make sure to get certified. Becoming certified will help you stand out in the field and be more attractive to potential employers. Certification will also give you the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively handle bankruptcy cases.

Related: What does a Bankruptcy Paralegal do?

Top 11 Bankruptcy Paralegal Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Bankruptcy Paralegals today.

1. National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys (NABA) Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal

The National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys (NABA) Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of bankruptcy paralegals. The certification is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved course of study, passed a comprehensive exam, and met other requirements established by the NABA.

To become certified, applicants must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing legal education in bankruptcy law within the three years preceding their application for certification. This includes courses such as Introduction to Bankruptcy Law, Bankruptcy Practice and Procedure, Consumer Debtor Rights and Remedies, Business Reorganizations, Creditor’s Rights and Remedies, and Ethics in Bankruptcy Practice. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination that covers all aspects of bankruptcy practice.

In addition to completing the required educational requirements and passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain criteria related to experience in bankruptcy law practice. This includes having at least two years of full-time experience as a paralegal or equivalent position in a law office engaged primarily in bankruptcy practice or having at least four years of part-time experience as a paralegal or equivalent position in such an office.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on whether you are already an NABA member or not. For nonmembers, the cost is $450; for members it is $350. The fee covers the cost of registration for the coursework and exam as well as any study materials needed to prepare for the exam.

Once you have met all requirements for certification, you will receive your official certificate from NABA that recognizes your achievement as a Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal (CBP). This certificate can be displayed proudly in your office or home to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in bankruptcy law practice.

2. National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal

The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise and experience of paralegals who specialize in bankruptcy law. The NFPA Certification Program provides a way for paralegals to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in this specialized area of law.

To become an NFPA Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of full-time experience in the practice of bankruptcy law or related legal services within the last five years. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by the NFPA. The exam covers topics such as bankruptcy procedure, debtor/creditor rights, debtor/creditor remedies, exemptions, Chapter 7 liquidation proceedings, Chapter 13 reorganization proceedings, and other related areas.

It typically takes between two to four weeks to complete the application process and take the exam. The cost of becoming an NFPA Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal varies depending on your location and whether you are a member or non-member of the NFPA. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 for members and $500 for non-members to become certified.

3. American Bar Association (ABA) Approved Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification

The American Bar Association (ABA) Approved Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification is an official certification program for paralegals who specialize in bankruptcy law. The certification is designed to recognize paralegals who have demonstrated a high level of competency in this area of law.

To become ABA-approved, a paralegal must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and adhere to the ABA's Code of Professional Responsibility. The exam covers topics such as bankruptcy filing procedures, creditors' rights, asset protection strategies, and other related topics.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the certification process. To get started, applicants must first submit an application form along with transcripts from any relevant college courses they have taken. They must also provide proof of at least two years of professional experience working in the field of bankruptcy law.

Once all the necessary documents have been submitted, applicants will be required to take and pass a comprehensive exam administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). This exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover various aspects of bankruptcy law. Once applicants pass this exam, they will receive their official ABA-approved Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification.

The cost for the ABA-approved Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification varies depending on the applicant's individual circumstances but can range from $500-$1,000 or more. This cost includes fees for application processing, testing materials, and other associated costs.

4. National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Bankruptcy Specialist

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Bankruptcy Specialist is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of bankruptcy law. The certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of bankruptcy law, procedure, and practice. It also serves as an assurance to employers that the individual has obtained the necessary education, training, and experience to competently handle bankruptcy cases.

In order to obtain the NALA Certified Bankruptcy Specialist designation, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including completion of at least three years of full-time work in the field of bankruptcy law or related fields; successful completion of a written examination; and submission of a professional portfolio demonstrating their expertise in this area. The written exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as filing requirements, exemptions, reorganization plans, dischargeability issues, creditor rights and remedies, and more. The exam must be completed within two hours.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements for the NALA Certified Bankruptcy Specialist designation. Individuals must first submit an application with proof that they meet all eligibility requirements. Once approved by NALA's Certification Committee, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for and take the written examination. Upon successful completion of both requirements (application and examination), applicants will receive their official certification documents from NALA.

The cost for obtaining the NALA Certified Bankruptcy Specialist designation varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NALA. For non-members it costs $450 for application review plus $175 for the written examination fee; for members it costs $350 for application review plus $125 for the written examination fee.

5. American Institute of Certified Bankruptcy Specialists (AICBS) Certified Bankruptcy Specialist

The American Institute of Certified Bankruptcy Specialists (AICBS) is a professional organization that provides certification for bankruptcy specialists. AICBS Certified Bankruptcy Specialists are recognized as having the highest level of expertise and knowledge in the field of bankruptcy law.

In order to become certified, an individual must meet certain educational, experience, and ethical requirements. The certification process involves passing a comprehensive exam administered by the AICBS, which covers topics such as bankruptcy law, consumer protection laws, and financial management. Once an individual has passed the exam and met all other requirements, they will be awarded the AICBS Certified Bankruptcy Specialist designation.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. In order to get started on the process, individuals must first submit an application to the AICBS along with a fee of $250 USD. After submitting their application and fee, individuals will receive instructions on how to register for and take the exam.

Once an individual has successfully completed all requirements for certification, they will receive their official certificate from the AICBS. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing additional continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

6. The Institute for Paralegal Education (IPE) Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program

The Institute for Paralegal Education (IPE) Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide paralegals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of bankruptcy law. The program consists of three courses: Bankruptcy Law and Practice, Bankruptcy Administration, and Bankruptcy Litigation. Each course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the legal principles, procedures, and practices related to bankruptcy law.

The IPE Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program takes approximately four months to complete. The program includes online instruction as well as hands-on training through a series of workshops. Students must complete all three courses in order to receive certification.

To get the IPE Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program, students must first register for the program at the IPE website. Once registered, students will receive access to the online course materials and be able to begin their studies immediately. In addition, students will be required to attend two mandatory workshops hosted by IPE during the duration of their studies.

The cost of the IPE Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program varies depending on whether or not a student has already completed any courses related to bankruptcy law prior to enrolling in this program. If a student has completed such courses, they may be eligible for discounted tuition rates; otherwise, tuition costs range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD depending on which courses are taken and whether or not any discounts apply.

7. The National Center for Paralegal Training (NCPT) Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program

The National Center for Paralegal Training (NCPT) Certified Bankruptcy Professional Program is a comprehensive training program designed to provide paralegals with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle bankruptcy cases. The program is accredited by the American Bar Association and is recognized as a professional certification in the field of bankruptcy law.

The program consists of six core courses, which cover topics such as bankruptcy law, debtor-creditor relationships, bankruptcy procedures, and filing requirements. Students must complete all six courses in order to receive their certification. Each course takes approximately six weeks to complete and requires students to pass a final exam.

In order to be eligible for the program, applicants must have at least two years of experience working as a paralegal or related profession. They must also submit an application form along with transcripts from their previous educational institutions.

The cost of the program depends on the number of courses taken and whether or not students opt for online or in-person classes. The cost can range from $1,500-$3,000 depending on these factors.

Once students have completed all six courses and passed their final exams, they will receive their NCPT Certified Bankruptcy Professional certification from the American Bar Association. This certification will demonstrate that they have acquired a high level of knowledge and expertise in handling bankruptcy cases.

8. The Institute for Financial Literacy's Advanced Certificate in Bankruptcy Law and Practice

The Institute for Financial Literacy's Advanced Certificate in Bankruptcy Law and Practice is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to practice bankruptcy law. The program consists of four courses that cover topics such as debtor/creditor rights, exemptions, trustee powers, and procedures. The program is offered both online and in-person depending on the student's preference.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the program depending on the individual's commitment level. To obtain the certificate, students must complete all four courses and pass an exam at the end of each course.

The cost of the program varies depending on whether it is taken online or in-person. The online option costs $1,395 while the in-person option costs $2,595. Both options include books, materials, and access to an instructor for questions and guidance throughout the duration of the program.

9. Kaplan University's Certificate in Bankruptcy Law and Practice

Kaplan University's Certificate in Bankruptcy Law and Practice is a program designed to provide students with an understanding of the legal principles and procedures related to bankruptcy law. The certificate program is offered both online and on-campus, and requires completion of 12 credit hours.

The curriculum includes courses such as Bankruptcy Law, Business Reorganization, Consumer Bankruptcy, Creditor Rights, Debtor Representation, and Ethics in Bankruptcy Law. Students will gain an understanding of the legal aspects of bankruptcy law as well as the practical applications of filing for bankruptcy.

The certificate program typically takes 1-2 semesters to complete depending on the student's course load. To get the certificate, students must successfully complete all required courses with a minimum grade of C or better.

Tuition for Kaplan University's Certificate in Bankruptcy Law and Practice varies depending on the number of credits taken per semester. Generally speaking, tuition for one 3-credit course ranges from $1,250 - $1,800 per semester.

10. The George Washington University's Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law

The George Washington University's Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law is a specialized program designed to provide students with an understanding of the complex legal issues related to bankruptcy. The certificate is offered through the GW School of Law and provides a comprehensive overview of consumer and business bankruptcy law, including topics such as filing procedures, asset protection, liquidation, reorganization, and discharge.

The Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law consists of five courses that must be completed within two years. The courses are: Introduction to Bankruptcy Law; Bankruptcy Practice; Asset Protection Planning; Business Reorganization; and Dischargeability. Each course is worth three credits and can be taken either online or on-campus.

In order to obtain the Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law from George Washington University, students must complete all five required courses with a grade of C or better. Students may also choose to take elective courses related to bankruptcy law for additional credit.

The cost for the Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law at George Washington University depends on whether you are taking classes online or on-campus. For online classes, tuition is $1,890 per course ($945 per credit hour). For on-campus classes, tuition is $2,220 per course ($1,110 per credit hour).

11. University of California, Irvine Extension's Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law

The University of California, Irvine Extension's Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to practice consumer and business bankruptcy law. The program consists of five courses that cover topics such as debtor-creditor law, bankruptcy exemptions, filing procedures, and more. It takes approximately one year to complete the certificate program.

To get the certificate, students must first apply for admission through UCI Extension. Once accepted, students will need to complete all five required courses within two years in order to receive their certificate. Courses are offered online or in-person depending on student preference.

The cost of the Certificate in Consumer & Business Bankruptcy Law depends on whether a student chooses to take the courses online or in-person. Online course fees range from $1,200 - $1,500 per course while in-person classes range from $1,400 - $2,000 per course. Additionally, there is an application fee of $100 and a graduation fee of $50 upon completion of the program.

Do You Really Need a Bankruptcy Paralegal Certificate?

No, you do not need a bankruptcy paralegal certificate to become a successful bankruptcy paralegal. However, having one can give you an edge over other job applicants and can help demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

A bankruptcy paralegal certificate is essentially a way to show that you have specialized knowledge of the field and can provide quality work in this area. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your commitment and dedication to the profession. By obtaining a certificate, you will gain additional skills such as understanding different types of bankruptcy filings, filing documents with the court, and advising clients on their legal rights. Additionally, it can help set you apart from other candidates for jobs in this field.

While having a certificate is beneficial, it is not absolutely necessary to be successful as a bankruptcy paralegal. You can still be successful without one by gaining experience through internships or volunteering in law firms or government agencies specializing in bankruptcy law. You can also take courses related to bankruptcy law or attend workshops and seminars covering these topics. By doing this, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to be an effective paralegal in this field.

In conclusion, while having a bankruptcy paralegal certificate may be beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in this field, it is not necessary for success as there are many ways to gain experience without one.

Related: Bankruptcy Paralegal Resume Examples

FAQs About Bankruptcy Paralegal Certifications

Q1: What is a Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification?

A1: A Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in bankruptcy law and related legal services. It is earned by passing an exam administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

Q2: How do I become certified as a Bankruptcy Paralegal?

A2: To become certified as a Bankruptcy Paralegal, you must complete at least one year of full-time work experience in the field and pass the NALA’s Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal Exam.

Q3: Is there continuing education required for maintaining the Bankruptcy Paralegal Certification?

A3: Yes, to maintain the certification, you must complete at least 10 hours of continuing education credits every two years.

Q4: Are there any other requirements to keep my certification current?

A4: Yes, you will also need to submit a renewal application every two years and pay the associated fee.

Q5: Where can I find more information about becoming a Certified Bankruptcy Paralegal?

A5: Additional information about certification requirements and exam preparation can be found on the NALA website.