How important is ABA approval?
ABA approval was once the final word on the quality of a paralegal program. The reason for this is attorneys, who were the ones most likely doing the hiring, were familiar with the concept. The ABA (American Bar Association) is also in the business of approving law schools. The three letters have become synonymous with attorneys for a good quality educational program, whether it be for paralegals or attorneys. However, over the years a few things have changed. The quality of paralegal programs, with the assistance of organizations such as the American Association for Paralegal Education, has improved dramatically. Secondly, the administrators in charge of hiring have become more sophisticated. They now know what to look for in a quality paralegal program and its graduates. In some areas the “ABA approved” requirement is gradually giving way to a paralegal certificate from any respected school plus either a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree, however many of the large firms found in metro
