Certification

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  • 1.  CP or Bachelors?

    Posted 04-16-2025 08:54

    Good Morning Paras!

    I am wanting to get the CP credential but I only have an Associate's in Criminal Justice, I can go the experience route but I didn't know if it would be better to do my Bachelors in Legal Studies to better prepare for the exam. Or if there are other recommendations I would appreciate it! :)

    Thank you all!

    Karol Cardona



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    Karol Cardona
    Scottsbluff County
    Gering NE
    +1 (308) 436-6678
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  • 2.  RE: CP or Bachelors?

    Posted 04-16-2025 14:09

    Hi Karol, 

    I'd suggest looking at the exam specifications on the certification FAQs and the free practice exam demo.  From there you can decide if you need more substantive training, like an associates or BA in paralegal studies (or just a class or two), or if you can use webinars/CLEs to brush up on the subject matter.  You could also check  local NALA affiliates for CP review courses. 



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    Deana Waters, M.Ed, ACP
    Paralegal Studies Program Director
    UAF Community & Technical College
    Fairbanks AK
    dmwaters@alaska.edu
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  • 3.  RE: CP or Bachelors?

    Posted 04-25-2025 07:01

    Hi Karol,

    I agree with Deana's suggestion, you might consider a Post Baccalaureate Paralegal Certificate or possibly NALA's CP Review Course.



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    Juanita Serrano ACP
    Paralegal
    Tampa FL
    (813) 417-0158
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  • 4.  RE: CP or Bachelors?

    Posted 05-06-2025 19:26

    Hi, Karol.
    I'm taking an AAS in Paralegal Studies at my friendly neighborhood junior college & I love it.  However, since you've got an AS in CrimJ, moving up to get a Bachelors might be a great move.  I think the biggest issue is to check that the program is ABA-approved.  Someone at a local professional group sent me this graphic, but I can't find it on NALA currently.  It shows that those who take an ABA-approved course have the highest pass rates.
    Amy



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    Amy Shanks-Schuh
    Amy Shanks-Schuh
    Duncanville TX
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