Top 10 Legal Counsel Certifications

Certifications for legal counsel are important for a number of reasons. First, they demonstrate that the attorney has met standards set by the certifying agency and is considered knowledgeable in the field. This can give potential employers confidence that the attorney is qualified to handle their legal matters. Additionally, certifications may provide an attorney with certain privileges or benefits, such as access to exclusive resources or opportunities. Finally, certifications can often help an attorney stand out in the job market and can be used to differentiate them from other applicants. In short, certifications are an important tool for attorneys wanting to find success in the job market.

This article reviews and explains the value of some of the most highly regarded certifications for Legal Counsels and how they can enhance a legal counsel's career.

What are Legal Counsel Certifications?

Legal counsel certification is a process in which an attorney certifies that a certain document or action complies with legal requirements. This process can help to protect individuals, businesses and organizations from potential legal liability by ensuring that any documents or actions taken are legally sound. By having an attorney certify that documents or actions comply with the law, it helps to ensure that those documents or actions will hold up if challenged in court. This provides peace of mind knowing that the legal foundation on which their decision was based is strong. Additionally, it can provide protection against potential lawsuits arising from a lack of compliance with the law. Finally, it can provide greater confidence in any transaction that involves multiple parties, since all parties involved know they have obtained proper legal counsel certification before proceeding.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check with your local bar association for any legal counsel certifications that may be applicable to your practice. This will help ensure you are up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations governing your practice. Additionally, having a certification can provide you with a competitive edge when it comes to marketing yourself and gaining new clients.

Related: What does a Legal Counsel do?

Top 10 Legal Counsel Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Legal Counsels today.

1. Certified Legal Professional (CLP)

Certified Legal Professional (CLP) is a professional certification program for legal professionals, such as paralegals and legal secretaries. It is offered by the National Association of Legal Professionals (NALP). The CLP certification provides recognition to those who have achieved a level of competency in their field, and it also serves as a way for employers to identify qualified job applicants.

The CLP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as legal terminology, legal research, legal writing, and other areas related to the practice of law. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CLP certification, applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in the legal field or have completed a degree program in paralegal studies from an accredited institution. Applicants must also submit proof of their work experience or educational background along with their application.

The cost of the CLP certification exam is $395 USD, which includes the exam fee and all related materials. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive a certificate from NALP recognizing them as a Certified Legal Professional (CLP).

2. Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP)

Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage a compliance and ethics program. This certification is offered by the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE) in partnership with the Compliance Certification Board (CCB).

The CCEP certification is a two-part process that includes an online application and an examination. The application requires applicants to provide information about their educational background, work experience, professional references, and other relevant qualifications. After submitting the application, applicants must pass a comprehensive three-hour exam that covers topics such as risk management, legal compliance, ethics management, corporate governance, and organizational culture.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CCEP certification process from start to finish. To get started on the path towards becoming certified, applicants must first register for the CCEP exam through SCCE’s website. The cost of registration is $795 USD for members of SCCE or CCB; non-members pay $995 USD. Once registered for the exam, applicants can begin studying for it using materials provided by SCCE or CCB or through self-study with books or online resources.

3. Certified Corporate Counsel (CCC)

Certified Corporate Counsel (CCC) is a certification program for attorneys who specialize in corporate law. It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the practice of corporate law. The CCC designation is awarded by the American Bar Association's Corporate Law Section, and it requires completion of an extensive application process that includes demonstrating a minimum of five years of experience in the field.

To become certified, applicants must provide evidence of their professional qualifications, including a resume, references from peers and clients, and proof of continuing legal education credits. They must also pass a written exam covering topics such as corporate governance, securities regulation, mergers and acquisitions, taxation, contracts, antitrust law, intellectual property rights, and other related areas. Once all requirements have been met, applicants are eligible to receive their CCC designation.

The cost for the CCC application process varies depending on the applicant’s geographic location and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 or more for the entire process. Additionally, applicants should plan to budget for any additional costs associated with taking the exam or completing any required continuing legal education courses.

In total, it can take several months to complete the CCC application process from start to finish.

4. Certified Intellectual Property Lawyer (CIPL)

Certified Intellectual Property Lawyer (CIPL) is a professional certification program for attorneys who specialize in intellectual property law. It is administered by the National Association of Patent Practitioners (NAPP). The CIPL program was created to provide attorneys with specialized knowledge and expertise in the field of intellectual property law, allowing them to better serve their clients.

The CIPL certification requires applicants to pass an examination that tests their knowledge of patent, trademark, copyright, and trade secret laws. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions that cover topics such as patentability, infringement, licensing, and other related legal issues. Applicants must also demonstrate experience in the field through a minimum number of years practicing intellectual property law or completing continuing education courses in the area.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the application process and pass the examination. The cost of the application fee varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in person but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will be issued a certificate that is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

5. Certified International Legal Counsel (CILC)

Certified International Legal Counsel (CILC) is an international certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of professional legal practice. It is a voluntary certification program for lawyers and other legal professionals who provide services in multiple jurisdictions.

The certification process typically takes six months from start to finish, depending on the individual's qualifications and experience. To become certified, applicants must submit a detailed application outlining their education, experience, and professional activities. They must also demonstrate their knowledge of international law by passing a written examination administered by the International Institute of Legal Studies (IILS).

The cost of CILC certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. Generally, it costs between $500 and $2,000 USD for the application fee, exam fee, and any additional fees associated with obtaining the certification.

In addition to providing recognition for those who are committed to excellence in international legal practice, CILC also offers a number of benefits to its members including access to exclusive networking opportunities, discounts on conferences and publications related to international law, as well as exclusive job postings from employers seeking qualified international legal counsels.

6. Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP)

Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP) is a professional designation awarded by the International Institute of Certified Litigation Managers (IICLM). The CLMP credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the litigation process and its related components. This certification focuses on the management and oversight of legal matters, from pre-litigation through resolution.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria including having at least three years of experience in managing or overseeing litigation matters, completing an approved course in litigation management, passing an examination administered by IICLM, and agreeing to abide by IICLM's code of ethics.

The coursework for the CLMP certification can be completed online or in a classroom setting. Online courses typically take between four to six weeks to complete depending on the specific program you choose. Classroom courses may take longer depending on the number of sessions offered and how often they are scheduled.

The cost for obtaining the CLMP certification varies depending on which program you choose. Typically, online courses range from $500-$1,000 while classroom courses can range from $2,000-$3,000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and proctoring fees.

Overall, obtaining your CLMP certification is an investment that will provide you with valuable knowledge and skills that can help advance your career in litigation management.

7. Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Lawyer (CMAL)

A Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Lawyer (CMAL) is a professional designation that recognizes attorneys who have achieved a high level of expertise in the area of mergers and acquisitions. The CMAL certification is awarded by the American Bar Association (ABA) after an attorney has met certain educational, experience, and ethical requirements.

To qualify for the CMAL designation, an attorney must have at least five years of relevant practice experience in mergers and acquisitions law, as well as a minimum of 30 hours of continuing legal education in the field. In addition, applicants must pass a written examination administered by the ABA. Once certified, attorneys must complete at least 15 hours of additional continuing legal education each year to maintain their certification.

The process to become certified typically takes 6-12 months from start to finish. First, attorneys must submit an application with supporting documentation to the ABA. After review and approval by the ABA’s Mergers & Acquisitions Certification Board, applicants will be invited to take the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, attorneys will receive their certification from the ABA.

The cost to become certified varies depending on factors such as location and type of program chosen; however, it typically ranges between $1,500-$2,000 USD. This includes fees for application submission and processing as well as examination fees.

8. Certified Regulatory Compliance Officer (CRCO)

A Certified Regulatory Compliance Officer (CRCO) is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the area of regulatory compliance. This certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure that their organizations comply with applicable laws and regulations.

The CRCO certification is administered by the National Association of Regulatory Compliance Professionals (NARCP). To obtain the certification, applicants must successfully complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as legal and regulatory compliance, risk management, audit and investigation, ethics and corporate governance. The exam also includes questions related to specific industries such as banking, insurance, healthcare and securities.

It typically takes approximately six months to prepare for the CRCO exam. During this time, applicants should take advantage of available study materials such as practice exams and online courses. Additionally, NARCP offers an online study guide which provides an overview of key concepts covered on the exam.

In order to receive the CRCO certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. Once certified, individuals are required to renew their credentials every two years by completing continuing education requirements.

The cost of obtaining a CRCO certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NARCP. For non-members, the fee is $595 while members pay $495. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking practice exams or purchasing additional study materials.

9. Chartered Legal Executive (CLExec)

Chartered Legal Executive (CLExec) is a professional qualification for lawyers in the United Kingdom. It is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). The qualification is equivalent to a law degree and allows its holders to practice law in England and Wales.

It takes approximately four years to obtain the CLExec qualification, but this can vary depending on prior qualifications and experience. Candidates must complete CILEx Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice, as well as CILEx Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law and Practice. In addition, candidates must also complete a minimum of 24 months’ supervised work experience at an approved legal practice.

To get the CLExec qualification, you will need to register with CILEx and pay an initial registration fee of £50 plus an annual subscription fee of £90 thereafter. You will then be required to study for the two levels of diploma mentioned above, which can be done either through distance learning or attending classes at one of CILEx's accredited training providers. Once you have completed your studies you will need to submit evidence of your supervised work experience before being eligible to take the final professional assessment.

The cost of obtaining CLExec varies depending on how you choose to study for it. Distance learning courses typically range from £1,000 - £2,500 each while attending classes may cost up to £3,000 per level. Additionally, there are exam fees associated with each level which range from £100 - £200 per exam paper taken.

10. Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx)

The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) is a professional body that represents legal practitioners in England and Wales. It was established in 1962 and is the only professional body representing legal executives, paralegals and other non-solicitor legal professionals. The CILEx qualification enables individuals to become qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive Lawyer or Fellow of the Institute, which is recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

It usually takes between three and four years to gain the CILEx qualification, depending on your route. There are two routes available: the Graduate Fast-track Diploma or the Professional Higher Diploma. Both involve studying for a number of core subjects including Contract Law, Criminal Law and Practice, Civil Litigation and Professional Skills.

To get started with either route you must be over 18, have at least five GCSEs at grade C or above (including English Language), and have passed an initial assessment test. You will also need to register with CILEx as a student member before you can start studying.

The cost of studying for the CILEx qualification varies depending on which route you choose, but typically costs around £2,000 - £3,000 per year. This includes course fees, study materials and exam fees.

Do You Really Need a Legal Counsel Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their specific situation. There are a variety of reasons why someone might consider obtaining a Legal Counsel Certificate, but it is ultimately up to the individual to decide if it is necessary for them.

For some individuals, such as those who plan on entering the legal profession or working in a law office, having a Legal Counsel Certificate may be beneficial. The certificate provides evidence that an individual has completed certain courses related to law and/or legal practice, thus providing proof of their knowledge and experience in the field. This can be helpful when applying for jobs or internships in the legal field. It can also provide leverage when negotiating salary or other job offers.

On the other hand, some people may not need a Legal Counsel Certificate because they do not plan on entering the legal profession or working in a law office. If you are already employed in another profession and simply want to gain additional knowledge about legal topics, then you likely do not need a certificate to prove your expertise. However, if you would like to demonstrate your knowledge of legal matters or use it as leverage in job negotiations, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial.

Ultimately, whether you need a Legal Counsel Certificate depends on your own goals and plans for the future. It is important to weigh all of your options before deciding if pursuing this type of certification is right for you.

Related: Legal Counsel Resume Examples

FAQs About Legal Counsel Certifications

1. What is a legal counsel certification?

Answer: A legal counsel certification is a formal recognition awarded to an individual who has achieved a high level of proficiency in the practice of law and has demonstrated their knowledge and skill in the field.

2. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a legal counsel?

Answer: Individuals must have successfully completed a course of study at an accredited law school, passed the state bar exam, and met any other requirements set by the certifying organization.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a legal counsel?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified can vary depending on the certifying organization and individual circumstances, but most organizations require at least two years of professional experience before they will consider an applicant for certification.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a legal counsel?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the certifying organization, but typically includes fees for application processing and examination fees.

5. What are the benefits of getting certified as a legal counsel?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified include increased credibility with potential employers, increased earning potential, access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities, and recognition from peers within the profession.