Paralegal Studies Programs
Acquiring a certificate in paralegal studies is not a required prerequisite to employment in New Jersey but many employers seek certificated candidates while some employers require a degree and/or certification ("CP/CLA") and specialization ("ACP"). Whether you are pursuing a certificate, degree, certification or simply furthering your education, you will find the information below helpful. On this page, you will find both American Bar Association approved** and non-approved programs in paralegal studies available in New Jersey. There are many paralegal education programs throughout the state and the information listed below should assist you in your search for a program that best fits your needs.
If you require any additional information about the programs listed below, contact the educational institution directly.
Paralegal Education Programs in New Jersey
**If you are interested in learning about how a program is approved by the ABA, please 
click here.
The Certified Paralegal Exam
PANJ is affiliated with the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). NALA has developed a voluntary certification examination. Those who succeed in passing the exam are entitled to use the designation "CP"-Certified Paralegal or "CLA" - Certified Legal Assistant. Specialty Examinations in certain practice areas are also available to be taken by those who have attained CLA/CP status and those passing the specialty examination are entitled to use the designation of "ACP" - Advanced Certified Paralegal. If you are interested in taking the Certified Paralegal/Legal Assistant exam, please click here. The provided link will give you all the information you need about the nationally recognized credential examination administered by NALA.
PANJ members enjoy discounted certification exam preparation programs from The Paralegal Education Group.
Questions in connection with local NALA certification exam study groups should be directed to NALALiaison@NJPara.org
PLEASE NOTE: As part of the affiliate agreement, PANJ is required to provide its membership roster to NALA. NALA uses the roster to send mailings and emails providing announcements of NALA's CLE events or other information that may be of interest to paralegals. NALA is prohibited from releasing the mailing list to any third parties. PANJ members have the option of opting out of NALA's mailings and emails following membership acceptance.
Paralegal Career Information: Q and A
I'm not a lawyer, but can you connect me with one of your members to help me answer questions and/or prepare and/or file documents?
No. Paralegals can ONLY work under the direct supervision of an attorney. Any non-lawyer assisting the general public with legal matters is committing the unauthorized practice of law (UPL). If you are an attorney looking for freelance help, PANJ may be able to connect you with a paralegal seeking employment. Advertise available positions and/or per diem positions for FREE in the Job Bank.
Do I need to be certified to work as a paralegal in New Jersey?
No. Paralegals need to only work under the supervision of an attorney. There is no required "certification" or "licensure" for paralegals in New Jersey.
I have a paralegal certificate, it means I'm "certified" right?
No. You are "certificated." To be "certified" you must take an exam offered by one of the national paralegal organizations-NALA's CLA/CP exam, NFPA's RP exam and/or NALS's PP exam.
