How to Become a Paralegal in the State of California
29 04 2008There are currently no licensing or certification requirements to become a Paralegal in California. However, it is wise to go the extra mile in order to make yourself stand out from all of the other job applicants. Consider obtaining one of the two voluntary certifications:
• Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)
• Registered Paralegal (RP)
Let’s review them in detail:
How to Become a Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)
Most people in California usually sit for the CLA exam. You must take and pass a two-day test administered by the Certifying Board of Legal Assistance and meet the established standards of the National Association of Legal Assistants, in order to use the CLA title. You are required to renew your certification after five years. Certification can be renewed every five years when you complete 50 hours of approved continuing education. You may also become certified as a California Advance Specialist (CAS)
Becoming a Registered Paralegal (RP)
In order to use the title of Registered Paralegal (RP), individuals must write and pass a test developed by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) known as the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE).
The certification can be renewed every two years for which you need to establish a proof of twelve hours of approved completion with continued legal education credits within the period of last two years.
