Top 11 Litigation Associate Certifications

Certifications for a litigation associate are incredibly important in the job market. Not only do certifications provide a way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills, but they also give employers a way to evaluate your qualifications and make sure you have the necessary skills for the job. Having a certification can also help you stand out from other applicants and give you an edge when competing for a position. Certifications show that you have taken the initiative to gain additional skills and experience beyond what is required of an entry-level litigation associate. In addition, certifications often come with continuing education credits which can be used to keep up with changing laws, regulations, and technology in the legal field. Finally, having certifications can open up opportunities for advancement within your firm or organization or even lead to other job opportunities outside of your current employer.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for litigation associates and how they can help advance their careers.

What are Litigation Associate Certifications?

Litigation associate certification is a professional designation that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated expertise in litigation matters. This certification can be obtained through a variety of organizations, such as the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) or the American Bar Association (ABA).

The purpose of litigation associate certification is to provide recognition for attorneys who demonstrate proficiency in this area of law. Attorneys who receive such certification are often viewed as more knowledgeable and experienced than those without it. This can be beneficial in many ways, from helping to secure job opportunities to increasing billing rates. Additionally, clients may feel more confident in hiring an attorney with a litigation associate certification because they know that the attorney has achieved a certain level of competency.

Furthermore, litigation associate certification can also provide attorneys with additional resources and training opportunities to further develop their skillset. Specifically, these certifications may allow attorneys access to webinars or conferences which focus on current trends and strategies in the field of litigation. Such training opportunities can help attorneys remain up-to-date on the latest developments in their practice area and help them stay competitive in their field.

Overall, obtaining a litigation associate certification can help attorneys demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their field, gain recognition from peers and clients alike, and access additional resources that will help them advance their career.

Pro tip: Research and obtain certifications from the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) to become a certified litigation associate. This certification will demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in the field, helping you stand out from other applicants.

Related: What does a Litigation Associate do?

Top 11 Litigation Associate Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Litigation Associates today.

1. Certified Litigation Support Professional (CLSP)

Certified Litigation Support Professional (CLSP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of litigation support. The CLSP certification is issued by the Association of Certified eDiscovery Specialists (ACEDS), which is an international membership organization dedicated to advancing the practice of electronic discovery.

The CLSP certification is designed for professionals who are involved in all aspects of litigation support, including eDiscovery, document management, trial presentation, and legal technology. This certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles and best practices related to litigation support.

To become certified as a CLSP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of full-time experience in the field or have completed an ACEDS-approved course in litigation support. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as eDiscovery processes and technologies, document management systems, trial presentation software, legal technology trends, and more.

The cost for the CLSP exam is $395 USD for ACEDS members and $495 USD for non-members. The exam can be taken online or at a Pearson Vue testing center. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

2. Certified Legal Investigator (CLI)

A Certified Legal Investigator (CLI) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise of an investigator in legal matters. The CLI certification is awarded by the National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI) and is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field.

The CLI certification process requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities as an investigator through a comprehensive examination. The exam consists of two parts: a written component and an oral component. Applicants must pass both components to become certified.

The written portion of the exam covers topics such as investigative techniques, court procedures, evidence collection, report writing, ethics, and legal research. The oral portion consists of questions related to case studies and scenarios that are designed to test the applicant's ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CLI certification process. Applicants must first submit an application packet with proof of experience or training in investigations or law enforcement. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam and pay the associated fee ($400). After passing both portions of the exam, applicants will receive their official CLI certificate from NALI.

In addition to demonstrating expertise in legal investigation, obtaining a CLI certification also demonstrates commitment to continuing education and professional development in this field. It is also a valuable asset when seeking employment or promotion opportunities within law enforcement or private investigation firms.

3. Certified Paralegal (CP)

Certified Paralegal (CP) is a professional certification for legal assistants and paralegals. It is the most widely recognized certification in the legal profession, and it indicates that an individual has met certain standards of education, experience, and ethical conduct. The Certified Paralegal program is administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

To become a Certified Paralegal, individuals must meet certain educational requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have either an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree with at least 15 semester hours of qualifying paralegal courses from an ABA-approved institution. Applicants may also qualify if they have completed a NALA-approved paralegal studies program or have seven years of verifiable full-time work experience as a paralegal.

The CP exam consists of two parts: the Core Examination and the Specialty Examination. The Core Examination covers general topics such as legal research, writing, ethics, civil litigation, contracts, torts, real estate law, family law, criminal law and procedure, bankruptcy law, administrative law and procedure, business organizations and agency/employment law. The Specialty Examination focuses on one particular area of law such as corporate law or trusts & estates.

The cost to take the CP exam varies depending on whether you are taking both parts or just one part. For both parts combined it costs $325 for NALA members and $395 for non-members. For just one part it costs $175 for NALA members and $225 for non-members.

Once you have passed the CP exam you will receive your certificate in 4–6 weeks from NALA’s headquarters in Tulsa Oklahoma. You will then be able to use the designation “CP” after your name to indicate that you are certified as a paralegal in good standing with NALA.

4. Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP)

Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Litigation Management Professionals (ALMP). The program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage complex litigation projects. It is intended for professionals who are responsible for managing or overseeing litigation, including attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and other related professionals.

The CLMP program consists of four courses: Introduction to Litigation Management, Advanced Litigation Management, e-Discovery and Technology in Litigation Management, and Ethics in Litigation Management. Each course contains modules that cover topics such as case management systems, document review processes, discovery strategies and tactics, trial preparation techniques, and ethical considerations.

It typically takes six months to complete the CLMP program. To get certified, individuals must attend all four courses and pass an exam at the end of each course. The cost for the entire program is $1,995 USD.

5. Advanced Mediation and Negotiation Certification (AMNC)

Advanced Mediation and Negotiation Certification (AMNC) is a professional certification program designed to provide practitioners with the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to practice mediation and negotiation in complex settings. It is offered by the International Institute for Conflict Resolution & Prevention (IICRP).

The AMNC program consists of four courses: Introduction to Mediation and Negotiation, Advanced Negotiation Skills, Advanced Mediation Skills, and an Elective Course. The program takes approximately three months to complete. Each course requires a minimum of 40 hours of study time.

To get the AMNC certification, applicants must first pass an online assessment that tests their knowledge of mediation and negotiation theory. After passing the assessment, applicants can then register for the four required courses. Upon completion of all four courses, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their mastery of the material covered in each course.

The cost of the AMNC certification program depends on which elective course you choose to take. The cost ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD depending on your choice of elective course.

6. Certified Civil Trial Advocate (CCTA)

Certified Civil Trial Advocate (CCTA) is a professional certification program offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). The CCTA certification is designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of skill, knowledge and experience in civil trial law. It is awarded to attorneys who have successfully completed an extensive application process and passed a rigorous examination.

The CCTA certification requires applicants to meet certain educational and practice requirements. Applicants must be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, have been actively engaged in the practice of civil trial law for at least five years, and have completed at least 45 hours of continuing legal education courses related to civil trial law within the past three years.

The application process for CCTA certification includes submitting an application form, providing references from three attorneys who are familiar with the applicant’s work in civil trial law, submitting copies of any published articles or books written by the applicant on civil trial law topics, and passing a written examination covering topics such as discovery procedures, evidence rules, jury selection techniques, opening statements and closing arguments.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the application process for CCTA certification. The cost of applying for CCTA certification varies depending on the state where you are applying; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000.

7. National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA)

The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides certification for attorneys who specialize in trial advocacy. This certification is recognized by many state bar associations and courts as a mark of excellence in the field of trial advocacy.

In order to become certified by NBTA, attorneys must meet certain requirements including practicing law for at least five years, completing a minimum number of hours of continuing legal education in trial practice, passing an examination on trial practice, and demonstrating proficiency in trial advocacy through peer review. The process typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete.

To get started on the certification process, applicants must submit an application form along with the required documentation. The application fee is $750 and there may be additional fees associated with the peer review process. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their NBTA certification.

NBTA certification can help attorneys stand out from their peers and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in trial advocacy. It can also provide access to exclusive resources such as continuing legal education programs and networking opportunities with other certified attorneys.

8. National Institute for Trial Advocacy Certification (NITA)

The National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) is an organization that provides training and certification for trial attorneys. It was founded in 1970 to provide lawyers with the skills necessary to become successful trial advocates. NITA offers a variety of courses, from basic trial advocacy skills to advanced techniques such as jury selection and opening statements.

To become certified by NITA, attorneys must attend a minimum of three days of intensive training and pass an exam. The training covers topics such as direct examination, cross-examination, witness examination, opening statements, closing arguments, jury instructions, and more. After completing the coursework and passing the exam, attorneys receive a certificate of completion from NITA.

The cost of NITA certification varies depending on the type of course taken. Most courses range from $1,500 to $3,000 per person. Additionally, some states may require additional fees or continuing education credits in order to maintain certification status.

In addition to providing certification courses for attorneys, NITA also offers seminars and workshops on various topics related to trial advocacy. These events are open to both members and non-members alike and can be used as part of the continuing education requirements for maintaining certification status.

9. American Arbitration Association Commercial Arbitrator Certification

The American Arbitration Association (AAA) Commercial Arbitrator Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective commercial arbitrator. It is a comprehensive training program that covers the fundamentals of arbitration, including the AAA rules, procedures, and ethical considerations. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing additional training requirements.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. During this time, applicants must successfully complete several courses, including an introductory course on arbitration, a more advanced course on dispute resolution techniques, and a specialized course in commercial arbitration. In addition to these courses, applicants must also complete an online exam that tests their knowledge of the AAA rules and procedures.

To obtain the certification, applicants must first submit an application form to the AAA. Once approved, they will receive information about the training program and will be required to pay a fee for each course taken. The fees vary depending on which courses are taken but generally range from $500-$1,000 per course.

Once all of the required courses have been completed and passed with a satisfactory grade, applicants will receive their certificate from the AAA along with instructions on how to renew it every three years.

In summary, obtaining American Arbitration Association Commercial Arbitrator Certification involves submitting an application form to the AAA followed by successful completion of several courses related to arbitration and dispute resolution techniques as well as passing an online exam. The entire process typically takes between six months and one year and costs between $500-$1,000 per course depending on which ones are taken.

10. American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Certificate Program

The American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Certificate Program is a program designed to provide attorneys with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively represent clients in dispute resolution proceedings. The program is offered through the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution and consists of an online course, an in-person workshop, and a final exam.

The online course provides participants with an introduction to dispute resolution theory and practice, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) techniques. Participants will learn about the legal framework for ADR proceedings, how to prepare for them, how to present cases effectively during them, and how to evaluate outcomes. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

The in-person workshop is held at various locations throughout the United States. It consists of two days of intensive instruction on advanced topics related to dispute resolution practice. Topics include ethical considerations in ADR proceedings, effective advocacy strategies during negotiations and mediations, managing difficult personalities in ADR proceedings, and more. The in-person workshop takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

Upon successful completion of both the online course and the in-person workshop, participants must pass a final exam administered by the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution. Upon successful completion of all three components of the program (online course + in-person workshop + final exam), participants will receive their ABA Dispute Resolution Certificate from the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution.

The cost for participation in the American Bar Association Dispute Resolution Certificate Program varies depending on whether you are an ABA member or not:

• For ABA members: $395
• For non-ABA members: $495

11. American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Fellowship Program

The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) Fellowship Program is a professional development program for matrimonial lawyers. The program is designed to provide lawyers with the knowledge and skills necessary to practice in the field of family law.

The AAML Fellowship Program takes approximately two years to complete and consists of three parts:

1. Online Coursework: Fellows must complete an online course that covers topics such as family law, legal research, and ethics. This course typically takes about six months to complete.

2. On-Site Training: Fellows must attend a series of on-site training sessions at AAML’s headquarters in Chicago, IL or other locations throughout the United States. These sessions typically last one week each and cover topics such as trial practice, negotiation techniques, and mediation skills.

3. Mentorship: Fellows are paired with experienced AAML members who provide guidance throughout their fellowship experience. These mentors help fellows develop their legal skills and prepare them for the challenges of practicing family law.

To become an AAML Fellow, applicants must be licensed attorneys in good standing with their state bar association and have at least two years of experience practicing family law or related fields such as divorce or child custody law. Applicants must also submit a detailed application that includes references from other attorneys and a written statement describing why they want to become an AAML Fellow.

The cost of the AAML Fellowship Program varies depending on the location of the training sessions but typically ranges from $2,500-$4,500 for all three components combined (online coursework, on-site training sessions, mentorship).

Do You Really Need a Litigation Associate Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including your career goals and the type of law you are interested in practicing. A litigation associate certificate may be beneficial for those who are looking to specialize in litigation or who plan to pursue a career as a trial attorney. It can also be helpful for those who want to demonstrate an expertise in the area of litigation and show potential employers that they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

In addition, some states require attorneys to complete continuing education courses related to their practice areas in order to maintain their license. A litigation associate certificate could potentially provide credit toward such requirements, depending on the state’s regulations.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a litigation associate certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are considering pursuing this type of certification, it is important to do research about the specific requirements for each program and determine if it is the best option for your needs.

Related: Litigation Associate Resume Examples

FAQs About Litigation Associate Certifications

1. What is a Litigation Associate Certification?

Answer: A Litigation Associate Certification is a professional certificate that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of civil litigation practice and procedure. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in legal research, writing, and advocacy skills necessary for success as a litigation associate.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must pass an examination administered by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions about civil litigation topics such as pleading and motion practice, discovery, trial practice, and ethics.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time it takes to become certified varies depending on individual circumstances; however, most individuals can expect to complete the process within six months to one year from the time they begin studying for the exam.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified provides recognition of your knowledge and experience in civil litigation matters and can provide an edge over other applicants when seeking employment or promotions in this field. Additionally, some employers may offer additional compensation or other incentives to employees who hold certification as a Litigation Associate.

5. Is there any continuing education required with certification?

Answer: Yes, NBLSC requires certified litigators to maintain their credentials by completing continuing education courses every two years in order to remain current with changes in the law and best practices in civil litigation practice.