Professional law associations

There’s an association for every profession in the legal field—you’ll find organizations dedicated to attorneys, judges, paralegals, court reporters, investigators and support staff, just to name a few. By restricting membership to a specific group of professionals, each of these law associations is able to offer highly relevant information and opportunities.

Professional lawyer associations

• American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA is the largest of all the lawyer associations in the world; it advocates for education, ethics and diversity in the legal profession. Members can access CLE programs, networking events and field-specific groups.
• National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL). This organization works to create a more equitable criminal legal system through advocacy, communication and preparation.
• American Health Law Association (AHLA). The AHLA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that’s committed to networking, training and educating members about changes to health-related laws.
• Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC). Become a better in-house corporate lawyer with the help of the ACC, which prioritizes the exchange of ideas, information and insight. The ACC has chapters around the world.
• American Association for Justice (AAJ). The AAJ provides information and assistance to trial lawyers who are fighting for victims’ rights. Membership includes access to the resource library and virtual tools and in-person educational and networking events.
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). The AILA serves immigration lawyers in the United States; it provides regular updates on changing immigration laws, resources for running a practice and opportunities to connect with other members.
• National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA). This association is open to attorneys who are working to advance workers’ rights and reduce employment discrimination in the United States. Members can participate in legal training, professional development, technical support and networking events.
• Association of Prosecuting Attorneys (APA). The APA provides practical policy strategies to prosecuting attorneys at all levels; it also offers resources to help lawyers boost diversity and create a more equitable justice system.
• National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG). This highly specialized professional association is open to attorneys general and their staff members in the United States. By encouraging collaboration and the sharing of insight, the group works to support AGs as they maintain the rule of law.
• National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA). With a membership of more than 1,500, the NACA is an organization for lawyers committed to consumer justice. Members enjoy education, regular industry updates and a strong, engaged community.
• National Association of Hearing Officials (NAHO). This organization consists of legal professionals who preside over administrative hearings. Benefits include certifications, networking, educational webinars, training and news.
• National Association of Patent Practitioners (NAPP). The NAPP’s goal is to elevate the field of patent law through education, information and exchange of ideas. Most members are patent lawyers and agents; you can also join as a law student or retired lawyer.

Professional law associations for other legal professionals

• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS). The AAFS’ mission is to improve and advance the use of science in the legal profession. It welcomes members from a range of disciplines, including medicine, anthropology, law and science.
• National Notary Association (NNA). This association helps people become notaries and find ways to make money within the profession. It’s largely dedicated to training and education, both online and in person.
• National Court Reporters Association (NCRA). The NCRA devotes most of its resources to education and information; its goal is to help members gain the technical and professional skills they need to succeed in the court-reporting industry.
• National Association of Subrogation Professionals (NASP). For people who work in subrogation, the NASP offers education, networking and advocacy opportunities. Members can gain certifications, attend conferences and participate in online forums.
• National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI). If you’re an investigator for a law firm, agency or public defender’s office, you’re eligible to join NALI. Members can take a certification course, participate in seminars and find support from other professional investigators.
• National Association of Legal Search Consultants (NALSC). Designed to support legal recruiters, the NALSC sets the standard for ethics and best practices. Members can join discussions, use the job board and attend networking events.
• National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). This organization is open to paralegals and students. It offers timely updates on the legal field, certification opportunities and professional development activities.
• Association of Legal Administrators (ALA). The ALA is a community of professionals who manage law firms, legal agencies and departments. Its mission is to connect managers, create helpful resources and provide professional development.
• National Association for Legal Support Professionals (NALS). Membership in NALS is open to legal support professionals and people whose jobs intersect with the legal profession. The group offers up-to-date education about relevant tools, laws, resources and skills.
• Association of Eminent Domain Professionals (ADEP). The ADEP is open to people with an interest in eminent domain law, including lawyers, property owners and government officials. The organization offers information, access to experts and communication about ever-changing case law.

Benefits of joining an organization for lawyers or legal professionals

If you’re looking to boost your job performance or take the next step in your legal career, joining a professional association can help. Most organizations offer a range of programs that teach you to become a more productive and competent professional.

Some common membership benefits are:

• Information and news: Newsletters, webinars and online magazines keep you updated on new research, case studies and the latest changes in your profession or area of specialization. This flow of news is particularly important in fields that evolve quickly, such as immigration law. Membership offers an easy and efficient way to stay current, even with a heavy caseload.
• Continuing education: Keep your skills sharp with seminars, workshops, training sessions and classes. Law associations tackle diverse topics ranging from court-reporting technology to legal defense strategies.
• Networking: Networking is one of the biggest benefits of joining an organization for lawyers. Dedicated events help you meet new people in your field, which can lead to job opportunities, mentorships and valuable professional partnerships. It’s also a good way to get referrals for expert witnesses and investigators.
• Advocacy: Some law associations offer members the opportunity to participate in advocacy work. You may have the chance to advise politicians, build public support and work with other community organizations to promote change in the legal system.

Fees for membership in lawyer associations

Most associations charge annual dues for membership. The exact amount will vary based on the organization and your professional status.

The American Bar Association uses a dues scale based on the years that have elapsed since your admission to the bar. If it’s been 0-4 years, you’ll pay $75 per year; if you’ve been a member of the bar for more than 20 years, you’ll pay $450. Membership is free for law students.

Some associations charge a flat fee for each type of professional. For example, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys has a $55 individual membership and a $1,000 office membership.