In response to a need for a strong unified voice to represent legal assistants nationwide, the National Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. (NALA) was incorporated in April of 1975 as a non-profit organization. NALA encourages legal assistants to commit themselves to the concepts of professional development and continuing education.
In 1976, NALA established the nation's first voluntary certification program for legal assistants. The Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)/Certified Paralegal (CP) examination allows legal assistants to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in their career and to show a commitment to professional development.
Each year NALA conducts a variety of national and regional seminars in conjunction with its affiliates. There is also an annual convention held in July attended by legal assistants throughout the United States. The 2007 conference was held in New Oreleans, Louisiana, and the 2008 conference will be held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on July 30-August 2, 2008. In addition to conferences, NALA publishes a salary analysis of the paralegal profession on a biennial basis. The 2008 survey can be accessed on the NALA website from the compensation link. Clicking this link will redirect you to the NALA website.
For more information on NALA, please contact RPA's NALA Liaison, Dorothy Hannan or visit NALA's web site
The CLA/CP program, administered by NALA, is based on over 20 years of research and study. The two-day examination is offered three times annually. Applicants are tested on the subjects of communications, ethics, human relations and interviewing techniques, judgment and analytical ability, legal research, legal terminology, and substantive law.
RPA organizes study groups year-round to prepare for the CLA/CP exam, maintains a library of reference materials, and offers invaluable study advice and guidance. Once the CLA/CP credential is earned, a CLA/CP must submit proof of a minimum of 50 hours continuing legal education (CLE) every five years to maintain certification. CLAs/CPs are also eligible to take the Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC program) course which is an online self-study program and assessment exam, currently offered in the areas of: Contract Management/Contract Administration, Discovery and Social Security Disability. Courses to be introduced before the close of 2006 include: Business Organizations, Trial Practice, Land Use and Personal Injury. Upon sucessful completion (90%), the credential of ACP is awarded. Those paralegals currently holding the CLAS designation may choose to use the ACP designation once they receive the new Certificate from NALA awarding the ACP credential.
RPA is proud to include 49 CLAs/CPs and 3 CLASs/ACPs among its members. RPA offers one CLA/CLAS scholarship each year good towards the registration fee for either exam for its members. For more information on the CLA exam, RPA members may contact RPA's CLA Coordinator Virginia Butler or visit NALA's web page on the CLA exam. For more information and updates on the APC program, please visit NALA's Advanced Paralegal Certification web page.