The Paralegal Profession and How to Access It
- There are an estimated 10,000 practising paralegals that are an essential part of the delivery of legal services in Scotland.
- There is an incredibly wide range of work being done by paralegals with varying levels of expertise and responsibility in the office.
- The Law Society of Scotland in association with the SPA - the professional body for paralegals in Scotland - have introduced the Registered Paralegal Scheme, an attempt to consolidate the profession by setting the defined standards.
- There are already over 100 Registered Paralegals in Scotland, many of whomn are graduates of the Specialist Paralegal Qualification.
- To become registered, paralegals must have a recognised and relevant academic qualification and practical experience in their legal area - the Specialist Paralegal Qualification is the highest level of qualification available in Scotland.
- Registered Paralegals will adhere to the highest educational and professional standards. For more information, visit http://www.lawscot.org.uk/Paralegals or view the official flyer.
The Society of Specialist Paralegals
Recognising Excellence
Graduates of the Specialist Paralegal Qualification satisfy the educational standards for admission to the Registered Paralegal Scheme.
Additionally they are eligible for membership of the Society of Specialist Paralegals (SSP) in recognition of their higher level of achievement.
Members of the SSP are entitled to use the designation M.S.S.P. after their name.
For more information, visit
Society of Specialist Paralegals (SSP).