Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations

The Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations is a nonpartisan, non-profit organization officially established in 1995, although its groundwork was laid in the 1980s by paralegal associations in Pennsylvania. It represents paralegal associations across the state of Pennsylvania.

Purpose and Goals

The Alliance is comprised of various local paralegal associations in Pennsylvania, including the Central Pennsylvania Paralegal Association, Chester County Paralegal Association, Delaware County Paralegal Association, Family Law Paralegals of Pennsylvania, Lancaster Area Paralegal Association, Lehigh County Paralegal Association, Lycoming County Paralegal Association, Montgomery County Paralegal Association, Philadelphia Association of Paralegals, and Pittsburgh Paralegal Association[1][2]. The Keystone Alliance aims to support the advancement of the paralegal profession within the state.

Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal Program

One of the notable initiatives by the Keystone Alliance is the Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (Pa.C.P.) Program, a voluntary certification program designed to set standards for paralegals in Pennsylvania. This program challenges paralegals to meet minimum qualifications based on educational and employment criteria, aiming to become a standard for hiring and promoting paralegals within the industry[3].

Structure and Membership

The Keystone Alliance represents over 1,400 paralegals from diverse backgrounds, including varying levels of experience, education, and job responsibilities. It is open to any paralegal association located in or serving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania[1].

Nonprofit Status

The Keystone Alliance operates as a federally recognized nonprofit organization with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 233097157. Its nonpartisan and non-profit status reflects its commitment to serving the community of paralegals statewide without political affiliation.