The ACP (Advanced Certified Paralegal) designation is an advanced credential for paralegals seeking to deepen their expertise and improve their professional standing. Recognized across the legal field, the ACP credential shows that a paralegal has achieved specialized knowledge beyond the standard certification. This guide covers what it takes to achieve the ACP designation, including eligibility, the certification process, career benefits, and more.
An ACP (Advanced Certified Paralegal) is a paralegal who has completed advanced training in specific legal areas through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). The ACP credential highlights a paralegal’s expertise in a specialized field, such as business organizations, civil litigation, family law, real estate, or criminal litigation. Unlike entry-level certification, the ACP credential emphasizes specialized knowledge and skills.
Benefits of obtaining the ACP credential include:
The ACP certification is managed by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), a leading organization in paralegal education and certification. This program allows paralegals to build specialized skills through online courses and exams in areas that enhance their roles. NALA offers modules in various topics, and each module must be completed successfully to earn the ACP credential.
To earn the ACP credential, candidates must:
Each course includes an assessment that verifies a paralegal’s knowledge and expertise in a specific legal area. The entire process, from taking the course to passing the test, can usually be completed online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
For those interested in achieving the ACP designation, the Certified Paralegal (CP) credential is the first essential step. Here’s an outline of the process:
Each ACP module covers detailed, specialized content relevant to a specific area of law, equipping paralegals with advanced skills that go beyond general legal knowledge.
In the United States, paralegals are not required to hold a license to work. However, certification can be a powerful asset in advancing a paralegal’s career, particularly in competitive markets where employers value certified credentials. Certifications, such as CP and ACP, serve as a form of professional licensing that demonstrates a commitment to ethical practice and specialized knowledge. Although a license is not mandatory, paralegals benefit from the skills and recognition that certification provides.
For paralegals aspiring to work in specific legal settings, such as corporate or government legal departments, certification can often be a differentiator that enhances job opportunities and salary potential.
The paralegal certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to evaluate the foundational knowledge needed in paralegal practice. For ACP certification, NALA administers separate exams tailored to each area of specialization. Here’s what candidates can expect:
Preparing for these exams requires thorough study and familiarity with specialized material, as well as an understanding of general legal practices and principles.
Achieving the ACP (Advanced Certified Paralegal) credential is a meaningful way to advance in the paralegal profession, showing employers a dedication to specialized knowledge and ethical practice. Whether interested in family law, corporate law, real estate, or litigation, ACP certification offers paralegals the opportunity to elevate their expertise in a particular field.
This credential is especially valuable in an increasingly competitive legal job market, where specialized knowledge is highly valued. With the flexibility to pursue advanced training online, paralegals can earn the ACP credential at their own pace, making it a manageable goal even for those already employed in the field.
What is the ACP certification?
The Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) certification is a credential awarded to paralegals who have completed specialized training in a specific area of law.
How do I become an ACP-certified paralegal?
To become ACP-certified, you must first obtain a Certified Paralegal (CP) credential, complete NALA’s advanced coursework, and pass the relevant exams.
Do paralegals need a license to work?
No, paralegals are not legally required to be licensed, though certification can enhance career opportunities and credibility.
What topics are covered in ACP exams?
Topics vary depending on the chosen specialization, ranging from ethics and legal principles to specific case laws in areas like family law or civil litigation.
How does ACP certification affect salary?
ACP-certified paralegals generally earn higher salaries, as the credential signifies advanced expertise and dedication to professional growth.
