Paralegal Studies - Classroom
State Certified
Is Duke's Program Certified by the NC State Bar?
Yes, Duke University's Classroom-based Paralegal Program has been certified as meeting the NC State Bar standards for paralegal education. Students who successfully complete the Duke Program will be eligible to sit for the certification exam to be administered by the State Bar twice a year.
What is Duke's pass rate?
As of May 2009, the pass rate for Duke Paralegal Program graduates is 84%, whereas the overall pass rate for the exam is 76%. See the pass rates for all paralegal programs in North Carolina.
What is State Certification?
In June 2005, the North Carolina State Bar began implementing a plan to offer voluntary certification to North Carolina Paralegals. Paralegals who work in North Carolina may now pursue certification that will enable them to call themselves "North Carolina Certified Paralegal". The Plan does not restrict the use of the term "paralegal," nor does it differentiate between the services offered by a certified and a non-certified paralegal.
Why is the Plan voluntary?
The Plan is voluntary because it only applies to paralegals who wish to use the titles "North Carolina Certified Paralegal", "North Carolina State Bar Certified Paralegal", or "Paralegal Certified by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification". A paralegal can choose not to participate and still perform substantive legal work under the supervision of an attorney as a "Paralegal", "Legal Assistant", or any title other than those listed above.
What is required of me once I receive the certification?
The certification is awarded for 12 months. Six hours of continuing legal education, including one hour of legal ethics, are required annually of all paralegals using the North Carolina State Bar certification titles, including those who meet the grandfathering provisions. The Duke University Paralegal Program now offers these CPE credit courses. We suggest that you check the website regularly to ensure you are aware of our latest course offerings.