NALA ACP Criminal Litigation case studies
NALA ACP Criminal Litigation · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The NALA ACP Criminal Litigation designation is an Advanced Certified Paralegal credential offered within NALA's certification program. NALA describes itself as offering "the only nationally accredited paralegal certification," and its certification pathway begins with the Certified Paralegal (CP®) credential, described as "the gold standard credential" and "a proud achievement and a career-long commitment." The ACP specialty builds on that foundation for paralegals who want to demonstrate deeper subject-matter knowledge in criminal litigation practice. The NALA ACP Criminal Litigation case studies are 5 cases and about 3,558 words.
1Speedy Trial Clock and a Client Who Refuses a Continuance
Marcus Hale has been in federal custody since his arrest on January 8. A grand jury indicted him on February 2, and he was arraigned on February 10, when trial was set for April 15.
746 words, about 4 min2Late Brady Disclosure Six Days Before Trial
Elena Ruiz is charged with aggravated assault in state court. Trial is set for June 3.
701 words, about 4 min3Night Search, Anonymous Tip, and a Franks Challenge
On March 1, a state magistrate issued a warrant to search Duane Coleman’s duplex, Unit 12B, for 'drugs, drug paraphernalia, and proceeds of drug sales.' The affidavit by Detective Morrow relied on an anonymous caller who on February 28 said 'the man in 12B sells pills.' Morrow added that he drove by the duplex twice in the prior week and saw 'several people come and go.' The warrant did not authorize night execution. Officers executed at 11:40 p.m.
731 words, about 4 min4Plea Offer Expires Before the Court’s Plea Cutoff
Yvonne Park is charged with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The prosecutor offers a written plea agreement: plead guilty to wire fraud only, stipulate to a 250,000 loss, offense level 22, criminal history category I, guideline range 41–51 months, and dismiss the identity-theft count.
705 words, about 4 min5Subpoena to the Defense Paralegal for Alibi-Witness Notes
Dana is a paralegal for the public defender representing Theo Martin, charged with robbery. On February 10, Dana interviewed alibi witness Chris Nguyen and took handwritten notes containing Nguyen’s cell number, a statement that Nguyen saw Martin at a basketball game in another town on the night of the robbery, and Dana’s impressions of Nguyen’s demeanor.
675 words, about 3 min