​Application Process


You must submit a completed application form, a nonrefundable application fee of $125, a $75 annual certification fee (refunded if certification is denied), and the appropriate information as outlined below to the program registrar.


If applying based on educational experience:

  • Official transcript from educational institutions you attended
    • OR
  • Acceptable proof that you have successfully completed any additional educational requirements as described in Education Requirements for Paralegal Certification
    • AND
  • Proof of employment or retainer by a Wisconsin-licensed attorney

If applying based on work experience (available only to applicants who moved to Wisconsin AFTER May 29, 2020)​:

  • Sworn or affirmed declarations from the attorney(s) with whom you work or have worked attesting to your substantive paralegal work experience, the total hours of which must meet the minimum requirements of the program
    • OR
  • If applying based on teaching experience, verified employment records showing you have met the minimum teaching requirements

Applications and supporting documents along with payment should be mailed to State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegal Program, Attn: Registrar, P.O. Box 7158 Madison, WI 53707-7158.

Upon approval by the program registrar, you will be issued a certificate and may use the credential “State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegal™.”

Certification is valid for two years from the date of issuance unless revoked sooner in accordance with the procedures set forth in the State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegal Program Requirements (PDF)​.​​


Background Check


All applicants for certification must consent to a Criminal History Background Check processed by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, the corresponding agency in the state(s) in which the applicant most recently resided or practiced, or both, or a federal registry – whichever is most appropriate based on the information in the application.

The certification application contains the necessary consent to the search, and the application fee includes any costs associated with the background check. Applicants whose background check reveals information that would disqualify one from membership in the State Bar of Wisconsin as a lawyer-member will be disqualified from certification. ​​​​​​​​​