Paralegal Career For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 2

Membership Has Its Privileges: Paralegal Associations and Their Certification Exams

IN THIS CHAPTER

Figuring out whether to join a paralegal association

Determining whether getting certified is worthwhile

Some of the decisions you make when you become a paralegal include whether to join an association of paralegals and whether to take steps to become certified. If you decided to become a member of a paralegal group, you have many types to choose from. And, because certification is voluntary for paralegals, different types of processes exist. This chapter helps you sort through your options for joining an association and becoming certified.

To Join or Not to Join

Depending upon your time, availability, and proclivity toward joining organizations, you may decide to join a local, state, or national paralegal association. But keep in mind that no one has to join a paralegal association to practice paralegalism.

In addition to enhancing your knowledge about new areas of law, association membership can lead to jobs by networking with other members. Because virtually all paralegal associations require that you pay annual dues and aspire to promote the ethical practice of the paralegal profession, you probably don’t need to join more than one organization. A major consideration ...