Top 11 Litigation Paralegal Certifications

Certifications for a litigation paralegal are important in the job market because they demonstrate that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties of a litigation paralegal. The certification also indicates that the candidate has taken their career seriously and is committed to staying up-to-date on best practices, regulations, and other topics related to the field. Certifications also help employers make informed hiring decisions by providing them with an objective measure of a candidate's qualifications. In addition, certifications can give candidates an edge over non-certified applicants as they show potential employers that they have made an extra effort toward achieving professional excellence.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Litigation Paralegals and explains how they can help to advance a litigation paralegal's career.

What are Litigation Paralegal Certifications?

Litigation paralegal certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in the practice of litigation support services. The certification is awarded by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). To obtain this certification, paralegals must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the areas of civil litigation, document preparation and management, interviewing techniques and other related topics.

Earning this certification can help paralegals demonstrate their expertise to potential employers or clients. It also allows them to stay abreast of developments in the legal field, as well as to network with other professionals who have similar interests. Additionally, having this certification may make it easier for paralegals to find employment opportunities in larger law firms that often require specialized certifications. Finally, obtaining this certification can help increase job security and earning potential for those already employed in the legal field.

Pro Tip: When considering litigation paralegal certification, look for programs that offer hands-on experience and provide mentorship opportunities. This will help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your career.

Related: What does a Litigation Paralegal do?

Top 11 Litigation Paralegal Certifications

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

1. National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal is a voluntary certification program for paralegals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills that are necessary for competent performance in the legal profession. The NALA Certified Paralegal credential is recognized as a mark of excellence by employers, courts, and other legal professionals.

To become NALA certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination. To be eligible, you must have completed at least 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university or have obtained a paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program. You must also have two years of full-time work experience as a paralegal or four years of part-time work experience as a paralegal.

The NALA certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering six core areas: ethics and professional responsibility; communications; research; technology; law office management; and substantive law. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost to take the NALA certification exam is $295 for members of NALA and $395 for non-members. Once you have passed the exam, there is an annual fee of $125 for members and $175 for non-members to maintain your certification status.

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

The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) Certified Paralegal is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of competence and professionalism in the paralegal profession. It is the only national certification for paralegals, and it is recognized by employers, courts, and other organizations across the United States.

In order to become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a minimum of two years of experience in the field or completing an approved paralegal education program. You must also pass a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as legal research, legal writing, ethics and professional responsibility, litigation procedures, and more. The exam consists of both multiple-choice questions and essay questions.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all the requirements for NFPA Certified Paralegal status. During this time you will need to complete your application form, submit supporting documents such as transcripts or letters of recommendation from employers or professors, take the exam, and pay any applicable fees.

The cost for becoming NFPA Certified Paralegal varies depending on whether you are taking the exam online or in person. If you take it online it costs $295 plus any applicable taxes; if you take it in person it costs $345 plus any applicable taxes. Additionally there may be additional fees for late applications or rescheduling exams.

3. American Alliance of Paralegals (AAP) Certified Paralegal

The American Alliance of Paralegals (AAP) Certified Paralegal is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of paralegals. The AAP Certified Paralegal credential is awarded to individuals who have met rigorous standards set by the AAP, including education, experience, and ethical conduct.

In order to become an AAP Certified Paralegal, candidates must first meet certain educational requirements. These include either a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited college or university, or an associate’s degree in paralegal studies from an accredited college or university. Candidates must also have completed at least three years of full-time legal experience within the past five years.

Once the educational requirements are met, candidates can apply for the AAP Certified Paralegal examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as legal ethics, legal research and writing, civil litigation, and contracts. Candidates must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to become certified.

The process of becoming an AAP Certified Paralegal typically takes several months to complete. After submitting an application and passing the exam, candidates will receive their certification within six weeks.

The cost for taking the AAP Certified Paralegal exam is $195 USD for members of the American Alliance of Paralegals and $245 USD for non-members.

4. National Association of Legal Professionals (NALS) Advanced Litigation Specialist

The National Association of Legal Professionals (NALS) Advanced Litigation Specialist is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the area of litigation. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in all aspects of litigation, from pre-trial through trial.

To obtain the NALS Advanced Litigation Specialist certification, individuals must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as civil procedure, evidence, ethics, and trial practice. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. After successfully passing the exam, applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience and expertise in the field of litigation.

The cost for taking the NALS Advanced Litigation Specialist exam is $225 for members of NALS or $275 for non-members. Additionally, applicants are responsible for any costs associated with submitting their portfolios.

Overall, obtaining the NALS Advanced Litigation Specialist certification can take several months depending on how quickly an applicant completes all requirements.

5. American Institute of Certified Paralegals (AICP) Litigation Certification

The American Institute of Certified Paralegals (AICP) Litigation Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize paralegals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in litigation-related skills. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of litigation, as well as their ability to provide quality legal services.

In order to obtain the AICP Litigation Certification, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. The eligibility requirements include having at least two years of full-time paralegal experience in the area of litigation, or having completed an approved paralegal program with a concentration in litigation. Additionally, applicants must be members in good standing with the AICP and have completed at least 15 hours of continuing education related to litigation within the past three years.

Once all eligibility requirements are met, applicants can register for the exam online. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and requires four hours to complete. It covers topics such as civil procedure, discovery, deposition practice and procedure, trial preparation, legal research and writing, client interviewing and counseling, case management systems and ethics.

The cost for taking the AICP Litigation Certification Exam is $250 for members of AICP or $450 for non-members. Once an applicant passes the exam they will receive their certification from AICP which is valid for five years from date of issue.

Overall, obtaining the AICP Litigation Certification demonstrates that an individual has achieved a high level of proficiency in litigation-related skills and can provide quality legal services.

6. Professional Paralegal Certification Board (PPCB) Litigation Support Certification

The Professional Paralegal Certification Board (PPCB) Litigation Support Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize paralegals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in litigation support. It is the only nationally recognized certification for paralegals specializing in litigation support.

To earn the PPCB Litigation Support Certification, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having at least two years of full-time litigation support experience or its equivalent, passing a comprehensive written examination, and submitting a professional portfolio demonstrating their knowledge of the field. The certification is valid for four years and can be renewed through continuing education activities.

The written exam covers topics such as legal research, document management, discovery processes, trial preparation, technology applications in litigation support, and ethics. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be completed within three hours. Exams are offered online or by paper/pencil on select dates throughout the year.

The cost to take the exam is $150 for members of the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or $200 for non-members. There is also an annual renewal fee of $50 for NALA members or $75 for non-members.

7. National Association for Legal Secretaries (NALS) Advanced Litigation Support Professional

The National Association for Legal Secretaries (NALS) Advanced Litigation Support Professional (ALSP) certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of litigation support. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a higher level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of litigation support, legal technology, and legal document production.

To obtain the ALSP certification, an individual must complete a series of courses offered by NALS. These courses include topics such as e-discovery, legal document production, trial preparation and presentation, legal research and writing, court filing systems and procedures, and more. The courses are offered online or through traditional classroom instruction. To become certified as an ALSP, an individual must successfully complete all required courses within two years from the date of enrollment.

The cost to obtain the ALSP certification varies depending on the type of course format chosen (online or traditional classroom). The cost for each course ranges from $200-$400 USD per course. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 USD which must be paid upon registration for the program.

Once all courses are completed and the application fee has been paid, individuals will receive their ALSP certificate from NALS within 3-4 weeks after submitting their application materials.

8. The Institute for Paralegal Education (IPE) Litigation Certificate Program

The Institute for Paralegal Education (IPE) offers a Litigation Certificate Program designed to provide paralegals with the knowledge and skills they need to become successful litigation professionals. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Litigation, Civil Litigation I & II, and Trial Practice. Each course is 8 weeks long, and covers topics such as legal research, legal writing, court procedures, trial preparation and courtroom etiquette. Students must complete all four courses in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of the program is $3,400. This includes tuition for all four courses as well as access to online learning materials such as videos and quizzes. In addition, students will be provided with textbooks and other resources that are necessary for success in the program.

To get started in the IPE Litigation Certificate Program, students must first apply online through the IPE website. Once accepted into the program, students will have access to an online learning platform where they can take classes at their own pace. Upon completion of all four courses, students will receive their certificate from IPE.

Overall, it typically takes about six months to complete the IPE Litigation Certificate Program.

9. The Center for Legal Studies (CLS) Advanced Litigation Support Certificate Program

The Center for Legal Studies (CLS) Advanced Litigation Support Certificate Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a litigation support specialist. The program covers topics such as legal research, document management, e-discovery, trial preparation, and more. It also provides an introduction to the use of technology in the practice of law.

The program is offered online and can be completed in as little as four months. Students are provided with an online course manual that contains all of the necessary materials needed to complete the program. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate from CLS verifying their successful completion of the coursework.

In order to get started on this program, you must first register online and pay any applicable fees. The cost of the Advanced Litigation Support Certificate Program varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

Once registered for the course, you will have access to all course materials including lectures, assignments, and exams. You will also be able to communicate with instructors via email or phone for assistance if needed. Upon successful completion of all requirements for this program you will receive your certificate from CLS verifying your successful completion of this advanced litigation support certificate program.

10. Kaplan University’s Advanced Certification in Litigation Support

Kaplan University’s Advanced Certification in Litigation Support is a professional certification program designed to prepare individuals for a career in the legal field. This certification provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to work as paralegals and other professionals in the legal industry. The program consists of four courses that cover topics such as legal research, litigation support, trial preparation, and technology.

The Advanced Certification in Litigation Support takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, students must complete all four courses with a passing grade of C or higher. The cost of the program varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not students take advantage of any discounts offered by Kaplan University. Generally, the total cost of the program ranges from $1,500 to $2,000.

To get started on the Advanced Certification in Litigation Support, prospective students must first apply to Kaplan University and be accepted into the school. Once accepted, students can register for their desired courses and begin their studies. Throughout their studies, students will have access to online resources such as lectures and course materials provided by Kaplan University faculty members. Upon successful completion of all four courses, students will receive their Advanced Certification in Litigation Support from Kaplan University.

11. The George Washington University's Online Certificate in Civil Litigation and Dispute Resolution

The George Washington University's Online Certificate in Civil Litigation and Dispute Resolution is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in civil litigation and dispute resolution. This certificate program consists of six courses, each focusing on a different aspect of civil litigation and dispute resolution. The courses cover topics such as alternative dispute resolution, trial practice, and legal ethics.

The certificate program can be completed in as little as 12 months, depending on the student’s pace. To get the certificate, students must complete all six courses with a minimum grade of B or higher. Each course is offered online through GWU’s Learning Management System (LMS).

The cost for the entire certificate program is $3,000. This includes tuition for all six courses plus any applicable fees. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify.

Do You Really Need a Litigation Paralegal Certificate?

Whether or not you need a litigation paralegal certificate depends on your goals and the job market in your area. If you are looking to pursue a career as a litigation paralegal, then having a certification can help you demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers. It also shows that you are dedicated to the field of law and have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge.

In some areas, having a certification is not required for entry-level positions, but it may give you an advantage over other applicants who do not have the same level of training. For example, if two people apply for the same position but one has a certificate and the other does not, the employer may be more likely to hire the candidate with the certification because they know that person has specific education in this area.

Additionally, if you want to move up within your organization or change jobs later on, having a certification can make it easier for you to find employment since it demonstrates that you have an advanced skill set. Employers may be more likely to hire someone with additional credentials than someone without them.

Overall, whether or not you need a litigation paralegal certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you are looking to break into this field or advance your career within it, having this type of certification may be beneficial for you in many ways.

Related: Litigation Paralegal Resume Examples

FAQs About Litigation Paralegal Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a litigation paralegal?

Answer: To become a litigation paralegal, you typically need to have an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, or a bachelor’s degree with courses in legal research and writing. You may also be required to pass a certification exam such as the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal Exam.

2. What is the difference between a litigation paralegal and a regular paralegal?

Answer: A litigation paralegal specializes in working on cases that are going to trial, while regular paralegals handle more administrative tasks such as document review, legal research and client communication. Litigation paralegals often have additional skills such as trial preparation and courtroom experience.

3. Is certification necessary for becoming a litigation paralegal?

Answer: Although certification isn't always necessary for becoming a litigation paralegal, it can help demonstrate your commitment to the profession and show potential employers that you are knowledgeable about the field. Additionally, many positions require candidates to have professional certifications or qualifications.

4. How much does certification cost?

Answer: The cost of certification depends on the organization offering it, but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD depending on if you're taking an online course or attending classes in-person. Additionally, some organizations may require you to take continuing education courses every few years in order to maintain your credentials.

5. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: Depending on which type of certification you choose, it can take anywhere from six months up to two years or more to complete all of the requirements needed for certification. This includes completing relevant courses, taking exams and gaining work experience in the field of law as well as passing any applicable state licensing exams.