Can a paralegal get hired with just a certificate?
Asked by: Mrs. Jaclyn Harvey Sr. | Last update: January 30, 2026Score: 4.6/5 (50 votes)
Yes, a paralegal can get hired with just a certificate, as many employers value the practical skills a certificate provides, but having prior work experience (even in roles like legal receptionist or file clerk) or a bachelor's degree alongside it significantly boosts your chances and earning potential, as experience often trumps education for entry-level roles. While certificates are strong qualifications, some firms might prefer candidates with degrees, but the key is getting your foot in the door, making certificates great for career changers or those adding to existing education.
Does a paralegal certificate make you a paralegal?
It's possible to become a paralegal without a certificate, but a paralegal certificate can make you a better candidate, help you earn a higher salary, and advance your career. Many employers will only consider paralegals with certificates when hiring.
Is it better to get a paralegal certificate or degree?
A paralegal certificate offers faster, focused, and cheaper training for immediate job entry, ideal for career changers with a prior degree; a degree (Associate's or Bachelor's) provides deeper legal theory, broader education, and potentially greater long-term advancement but requires more time and money, suiting those starting fresh or aiming for higher roles. Certificates are great for specific skills quickly, while degrees build a more comprehensive foundation, with experience often being the key factor for salary, regardless of the path.
What is the quickest way to become a paralegal?
The fastest way to become a paralegal is to complete an online or in-person paralegal certificate program, often taking 6-12 months, especially if you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, which allows for a quicker post-baccalaureate certificate. Focusing on ABA-approved programs for practical skills, combining training with internships/externships, and pursuing NALA certification can get you job-ready quickly, potentially even in 4-6 months with intensive, accelerated online courses.
Which paralegal certification is most recognized?
The Certified Paralegal (CP) credential from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) is widely considered the most recognized and prestigious paralegal certification, acknowledged by the American Bar Association (ABA) and over 47 paralegal organizations as a national standard. Other respected certifications include the PACE Registered Paralegal (RP) from NFPA and the Accredited Legal Professional (ALP) from NALS, but NALA's CP offers a foundational, comprehensive assessment of knowledge and skills, making it a strong choice for broad recognition.
Can You Really Get a Paralegal Job Without a Paralegal Certificate?
Do employers accept online paralegal certificates?
Yes, most employers accept online paralegal degrees if they come from accredited institutions. Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards, which is critical for employer recognition.
How difficult is it to get a paralegal certificate?
Becoming a paralegal can be an excellent career choice for those wanting to enter the legal field relatively quickly. You can start with an associate's degree (typically 2 years full-time) or a certificate program (8-12 months if you already have a bachelor's degree).
What disqualifies you from becoming a paralegal?
Disqualifications for paralegals primarily involve crimes of dishonesty (fraud, embezzlement), violent offenses, or those related to ethics (like perjury, bribery), as these show a lack of integrity vital for legal work, with felony convictions often being a major barrier, though some jurisdictions and employers might consider rehabilitation, time elapsed, and the nature of the crime on a case-by-case basis, while poor financial history and being a suspended/disbarred attorney are also significant red flags.
Is it hard to get hired as a paralegal?
Yes, getting an entry-level paralegal job can be hard due to high application volumes and competition from experienced candidates, but it's definitely achievable with the right strategy, focusing on networking, internships, certifications, transferable skills (like organization and client management from other jobs), and applying broadly to roles like legal assistant or file clerk to get a "foot in the door". While many firms prefer experience, a strong application with practical experience (even non-legal) and targeted skills can overcome this hurdle.
Can paralegals make $100,000?
Yes, experienced senior paralegals in specialized fields, large firms, or major markets can absolutely earn $100,000 or more, especially in roles like Paralegal Managers or specialized areas like Intellectual Property, with factors like experience, location (e.g., NYC, Silicon Valley), and employer size being key determinants. While the median salary is lower, achieving a six-figure income is realistic through strategic career moves like gaining certifications, specializing in high-demand areas, and working in lucrative markets or large corporations.
Can you live off being a paralegal?
According to BLS, four of the 10 highest-paying metro areas for paralegals are in California; not surprisingly, since some of the highest cost-of-living areas are located there as well. Even within California , annual salary ranges from a low of $75,000 in Sacramento to a high of $100,000 in San Jose.
What is better, a certificate or an associate's degree?
A certificate offers fast, focused training for specific job skills, taking months to a year, costing less, and providing quick entry into the workforce, while an associate degree provides a broader, two-year education with general education plus career-specific courses, offering deeper knowledge, transferability to a bachelor's, and often greater long-term career growth despite higher initial cost and time. Certificates are for immediate skills, degrees for foundational learning and pathways to four-year schools.
Does a paralegal certificate look good on a resume?
Certifications like the Certified Paralegal (CP), Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC), or Professional Paralegal (PP) can strengthen your credentials. If you have expertise in legal software or case management, include certifications in LexisNexis, Westlaw, or eDiscovery tools to showcase your technical proficiency.
What to do after getting a paralegal certificate?
15 Alternative Career Paths for Paralegals:
- Legal Staffing Recruiter.
- Professional Development and Training Manager.
- Pro Bono Program Coordinator.
- Project Manager for legal support vendor.
- Legislative Affairs Director for a county government agency.
- E-discovery Manager.
- Professional Blogger/Marketer in the legal field.
Should I get a paralegal certificate or associate's degree?
The paralegal degree offers better long-term career advancement compared to a paralegal certificate. A degree provides a more comprehensive education and is often preferred by employers for higher-level positions, offering broader opportunities for career growth and higher earning potential.
When can you call yourself a paralegal?
(a) “Paralegal” means a person who holds himself or herself out to be a paralegal, who is qualified by education, training, or work experience, who either contracts with or is employed by an attorney, law firm, corporation, governmental agency, or other entity, and who performs substantial legal work under the ...
Why do paralegals quit?
The paralegal profession experiences notably high turnover, with many professionals leaving positions or the field within their first few years. High turnover stems from demanding workloads, frequent criticism, constant project shifts, and tight deadlines.
Is paralegal a good entry level job?
Yes, being a paralegal is generally considered a good entry-level job for entering the legal field, offering a faster path than becoming an attorney with decent pay, benefits, and growth opportunities, though it can be competitive and requires relevant education like a certificate or associate's degree. Entry-level roles provide practical experience in research, document prep, and case management under lawyers, serving as a solid foundation for a legal career, with many firms hiring those with minimal prior experience.
Why can't I get a paralegal job?
It's hard to get a paralegal job due to intense competition, especially for entry-level roles, with many applicants for few spots, and employers often prioritizing candidates with some experience over new graduates. Other factors include a lack of practical skills from some online programs, small firms' budget constraints for training, and the general "catch-22" of needing experience to get hired, but needing a job to get experience, all while dealing with massive application volumes.
Can you call yourself a paralegal without a degree?
To be a paralegal in California, you must obtain one of the following: Completion of an ABA-approved paralegal program. Completion of a paralegal program or degree from a postsecondary institution accredited by a recognized accrediting organization.
What are the downsides of being a paralegal?
Long hours and high stress
Paralegals may work long hours, including evenings or weekends, to meet the demands of the law firm and the frequent tight deadlines associated with ongoing cases. Additionally, they may be exposed to graphic images or heartbreaking stories, which can be emotionally taxing.
What degree do most paralegals have?
Paralegals and legal assistants typically need an associate's degree or certificate in paralegal studies to enter the occupation. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a bachelor's degree; others may consider candidates who have a high school diploma and experience.
Is a paralegal certificate worth getting?
Yes, a paralegal certificate is generally worth it as it significantly boosts job prospects, provides essential skills for a fast-track entry into the legal field, and can lead to higher earning potential, making it a valuable investment for those committed to a paralegal career rather than becoming an attorney. While not always mandatory, certificates help you stand out, teach foundational legal concepts, and are often preferred or required by employers.
How to find a paralegal job with no experience?
How to become a Paralegal with no experience
- Apply for entry level paralegal jobs.
- Apply for paralegal jobs in practice areas related to your studies.
- Tailor your paralegal CV to each role.
- Consider alternative practice areas and job titles within legal.
- Consider temporary and contract paralegal roles.
Can paralegals make $100,000?
Yes, experienced senior paralegals in specialized fields, large firms, or major markets can absolutely earn $100,000 or more, especially in roles like Paralegal Managers or specialized areas like Intellectual Property, with factors like experience, location (e.g., NYC, Silicon Valley), and employer size being key determinants. While the median salary is lower, achieving a six-figure income is realistic through strategic career moves like gaining certifications, specializing in high-demand areas, and working in lucrative markets or large corporations.