Question 1

What exactly does the NALP End-Point Assessment involve?

Accepted Answer

The NALP EPA has three main parts. First, you submit a Portfolio of Evidence gathered during your apprenticeship—this includes work products, witness testimonies and reflective accounts showing you meet the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours in the standard. Second, you complete a Synoptic Project: a time‑limited, unseen legal scenario where you must research, analyse, and produce appropriate documents or advice, demonstrating how you apply knowledge from multiple areas of law. Finally, you have a Professional Discussion with an independent NALP assessor, lasting about 60–90 minutes, where you explain and justify the decisions you made in your portfolio and project. There is no traditional written exam.

Question 2

How is the NALP Paralegal EPA graded?

Accepted Answer

Your EPA is graded Pass, Merit or Distinction. To achieve a Pass, you must demonstrate all the Pass-level criteria described in NALP’s Grade Descriptors across the synoptic project and professional discussion. For a Merit, you need to show a higher level of analysis, critical thinking, or more sophisticated communication. A Distinction is awarded when your work shows exceptional depth, creativity, and professional judgment. The Portfolio of Evidence is not itself graded but must be judged sufficient to confirm you have met the on‑programme competence requirements before you can proceed to the other components. Your final grade is determined by the independent assessor based on the overall quality of your project and discussion.

Question 3

Do I need to be employed as an apprentice to take the NALP EPA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the NALP End-Point Assessment is taken at the end of a Paralegal Apprenticeship (Level 3). You must be employed in a legal setting, such as a law firm, legal department or advice agency, and have completed the on‑programme training and received sign‑off from your employer and training provider. The EPA is not available as a standalone qualification for those without an apprenticeship contract. If you are not an apprentice, NALP offers the alternative Level 3 Diploma in Paralegal Studies, which is assessed by exams and coursework and does not require employment.

Question 4

How long do I have to complete the NALP EPA after my apprenticeship?

Accepted Answer

You will typically enter the EPA gateway once your employer and training provider confirm you are ready, usually towards the end of your apprenticeship which normally lasts around 18–24 months. The EPA period itself must be completed within a maximum of 12 weeks from the start of the assessment window. Within this period, you will submit your portfolio, undertake the synoptic project (which is typically completed over several days) and attend your professional discussion. NALP provides detailed timelines and deadlines for each stage to ensure you stay on track.

Question 5

What jobs can I do after passing the NALP Paralegal EPA?

Accepted Answer

Successfully completing the EPA confers the status of a Level 3 Paralegal Apprentice, fully competent to work in a wide range of legal environments. Typical job titles include Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Caseworker, or Legal Secretary with fee‑earning responsibilities. You might work in areas such as conveyancing, litigation, crime, family law, or corporate law. Many NALP‑certified paralegals also progress to a solicitor apprenticeship, the Level 4 Diploma, or specialist roles, and the qualification is recognised by the Law Society and many employers as a mark of practical, high‑quality training.

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NALP Level 3 Paralegal End Point Assessment

NALP Advanced Paralegal End Point Assessment

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