Results of the examination are provided via US mail to all examinees.  The results will be released during the second week of the second month following the test window, i.e., the second week of March, July, and November. This allows time for essays to be graded, data validated, and scores recorded. Results are not available by e-mail, telephone or fax.

Grade reports provide failing scores only. In addition, examinees will receive a report of the subject areas that appeared to be most difficult. This information is provided to assist examinees in preparation for their retake.

Grade reports do not provide passing scores. Sections of the examination that are successfully completed are designated with “Pass.”  The Certifying Board has determined “Pass” is sufficient to designate successful completion of the examinations section and that if a paralegal has met the standard, the paralegal has earned the Certified Paralegal credential.

How Passing Score is Established

The passing points, or cut scores, for the exams are established using a criterion-referenced technique. Qualified and trained SMEs will participate in determining the passing points working with the psychometric consultant.

The final passing points resulting from this process are approved by the Certifying Board (or SME working group).

Appeal of Examination Results

An examinee may appeal, in writing, to the Certifying Board for review of the Board’s actions concerning examination results.

Such appeal must include the candidate’s basis for the appeal and any and all relevant documentation to be considered, and must be received at NALA Headquarters within thirty (30) days after release of the examination results. The Board Chair and NALA Headquarters staff will promptly investigate to determine whether the documentation submitted meets the Certifying Board’s requirements for review of examination results. If it is determined that the appeal does not meet the requirements, the examinee will be so advised. If the information meets the board’s requirements for an appeal, such appeal shall be reviewed by an Appeal Committee which shall be comprised of a minimum of three (3) members of the Certifying Board, to include a paralegal educator, an attorney, and an Advanced Certified Paralegal. Each member of the Appeal Committee shall have served a minimum of one (1) year on the Certifying Board.

The Appeal Committee of the Certifying Board will determine whether a decision made by the Certifying Board was inappropriate if: (1) the decision was based on material errors of fact, or (2) the NALA Certifying Board failed to follow published criteria, policies, and procedures.

Only facts and conditions up to and including the time of the Certifying Board’s decision are eligible for consideration during the appeal process.

After consideration of the matter under appeal, the Appeal Committee shall submit its recommendation for action to the Certifying Board. A majority vote of Certifying Board members shall be final and binding in the matter under appellate review.