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.