Leading the Way - August 2009
What's in a Name?
William Shakespeare said, "A rose by any other name is still a rose." My mother said,"No name calling." Names and labels apply meaning and give character to persons, places, and things. At NALS . . . the association for legal professionals (NALS), you will hear name calling in varying degrees. Mainly you'll hear ALS, PLS, and PP--all names of certifications attainable through NALS by members of the legal services profession. Being certified bestows qualities that ordinary legal secretaries/assistants may lack--for instance, confidence, self-esteem, and dedication. These names empower legal secretaries and legal assistants to further their careers and gain credence as career legal professionals. So what are in these names?
First, there is the ALS . . . the basic certification for legal secretaries (ALS) designation, which also means the accredited legal secretary. Being accredited demonstrates a willingness to learn the proper methods used in a law office and in the legal profession. By learning these skills, the newbie to the legal field is showing the office that she is serious about the job and is prepared to face its challenges. This designation is earned after passing a four-hour, three-part examination. This goal demonstrates commitment and aptitude for succeeding in the ever-changing legal environment.
The second label, PLS . . . the advanced certification for legal professionals (PLS), also referred to as the professional legal secretary certification, is a designation that furthers one's knowledge and skills and identifies a lawyer's assistant as exceptional. Certification is received after passing a one-day, four-part examination, which includes all areas of law. Reaching this goal exhibits professionalism and the challenge to be exceptional.
The third label, the Professional Paralegal (PP), is a designation to reach if you are a legal assistant and perform paralegal duties. This certification identifies you as exceptional in all areas of law. The certificate is received after passing a one-day, four-part examination on substantive law, ethics and judgment, written communications, and legal knowledge and skills. Attaining this certification is not for all legal secretaries, but for those who perform paralegal/legal assistant duties and responsibilities. These legal assistants have five years' experience and work under the direct supervision of a lawyer.
What's in all these names and labels for you? Lots. Holding one of these certifications gives credence to your commitment as a career legal professional. The examinations and certifications show everyone your dedication to the profession because you have gained more education and knowledge than the average legal secretary. You are accredited and certified in your chosen field. Now, that's name calling! So you can call me any name you like (I won't tell Mom), as long as you call me certified.
Call yourself a name and give yourself extra character; however you choose, certification's name is one you'll want to be called. It's easy to get this name too: (1) apply for an exam; (2) study diligently; and (3) sit for the exam of your choice. You've reached your goal and labeled your determination.
Contact:
Jacquelyn A. Hannigan
Certified PP, PLS, Notary Public
Vice Chair NALS Certifying Board
Kaufman, Coren & Ress, P.C.
1717 Arch Street, Suite 3710
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Jhannigan@kcr-law.com