Historical Highlights

1974

Eight associations come together to found NFPA®. Among the first orders of business are: 

•  A draft Code of Ethics.
• The establishment of a task force regarding certification.

1976

Newsletter launched.

1978

Resolution passed that NFPA® will incorporate.

• Membership is now 15 organizations; nearly double.

1983

NFPA® appoints its first representative to the ABA

• Executive Director hired.
• Membership increased to 27 associations with a total of over 6,000 individuals.

1987

Definition of "paralegal" agreed upon. "Paralegal" and "Legal Assistant" deemed interchangeable.

1990

Eight new member associations join this year alone.

1995

Paralegals.org website established. Believed to be the first website dedicated to the profession.

• Resolution passes to create a foundation which will use the proceeds from the PACE® program for the benefit of not just the NFPA® but the entire paralegal profession.

1996

PACE Registered Paralegal® certification program launches.

1999

Term limits established for Board members.

2003

NFPA® is now 55 associations, over 13,000 individuals, strong!

2006

The Foundation for the Advancement of the Paralegal Profession is re-established.

2011

Paralegal Core Competency Exam™ launches. 

But wait, there's more...

Download the full History of NFPA document (PDF) for more information.

View the Past and Present Board Members and Coordinators page.

View the 40th Anniversary Program (PDF) and NFPA History in Pictures video or request permission to reprint (PDF) some or all of their contents.