The Regulation of Paralegals: What You Need to Know
Understanding how paralegals are regulated is essential to working ethically and effectively in the legal field. This seminar breaks down the rules, standards, and programs that shape what paralegals can and cannot do – and why those boundaries matter.
We’ll explore the different ways paralegals are regulated at the state and national levels, including the distinction between certification and licensing. You’ll also learn about major certification programs, efforts to expand legal access through reform initiatives, and the challenges involved in defining the “practice of law.”
We’ll also take a look at when nonlawyers are permitted to provide limited legal representation in courts and administrative settings, and how to recognize the line between providing legal information and crossing into unauthorized legal advice.
This session is a must for anyone working in – or planning to enter – the paralegal profession, offering clear guidance on how to stay compliant, protect your role, and support access to justice without overstepping legal and ethical limits.
Course Format
Your enrollment includes immediate access to the on demand recording along with a downloadable copy of the accompanying slide presentation.
As always, you’ll enjoy lifetime access to all course materials, so you can revisit the recordings and resources whenever it’s convenient for you.
This course includes computer-generated captions in English and Spanish to support a variety of learning preferences; captions may contain minor inaccuracies.
Video length: 59 Minutes
Continuing Legal Education Credit (CLE)
NALA CP or ACP: This program meets the requirements of the NALA Certifying Board for continuing legal education credit required to maintain the CP/ACP credential. This program is pre-approved by NALA for 1.5 hour of CLE including 1.0 Substantive CLE and .5 Ethics CLE.
Florida Bar FRP: As approved by NALA, this seminar meets the requirements under Rule 20-6.1 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar for continuing legal education credit required to maintain the FRP credential.
NFPA RP® or CRP™: NFPA automatically accepts substantive CLE hours which bears the accreditation of NALA on the certificate of attendance.
State Bar of Texas – Paralegal Division – The Division will accept substantive law CLE approved by the National Association of Legal Assistants for credit towards the Paralegal Division mandatory membership renewal CLE requirement.
North Carolina – This program has been pre-approved by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification for 90 minutes of general credit plus 0 minutes of ethics credit. This approval shall expire on March 8, 2027 unless extended.
Meet your Speaker – Linda McGrath-Cruz
Linda McGrath-Cruz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to her seminars, accumulated since 1997, from the dynamic world of civil litigation. Specializing in areas such as products/premises liability, bodily injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice defense, Linda’s expertise is not just theoretical but deeply rooted in real-world practice. As a testament to her dedication and skill, she has earned the designation of NALA Advanced Certified Paralegal in key areas including discovery, eDiscovery, trial practice, social security, and entity medical liability, alongside her recognition as a Florida Registered Paralegal. Linda is the Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor for the St. Johns River State College Paralegal Program.
Linda’s academic journey underscores her commitment to the paralegal profession, holding two paralegal certificates, a Bachelor’s in Paralegal Studies from Barry University, and a Master’s in Paralegal Studies from National Juris University. Linda also holds degrees in medical assisting and secondary education. Her educational background, paired with her extensive experience, positions her as an instructor with a deep understanding of the field’s nuances and complexities.
She is the proud founder and operator of Perfectly Paralegal, a vibrant community that offers resources, support, continuing education, and much more for paralegals across all levels of experience and education. This initiative highlights Linda’s commitment to nurturing the paralegal community, making her not just a mentor but a relatable ally who understands the challenges and triumphs of the profession.
In Linda’s classes, you’re not just learning theory; you’re gaining practical insights from someone who has lived it. Her approachable nature and dedication to sharing her wealth of knowledge ensure that every participant leaves with valuable, actionable information. Join her to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, and empower yourself with the tools for success in the dynamic world of paralegal work.
The Regulation of Paralegals What You Need to Know
