I really liked the aspect of membership offered by ILSPA, because it opened up access to a new supportive community. I offer various legal services as a legal secretary. At the start, I focused more on legal administrative services. As I gained more experience, I expanded to offering services bordering more on paralegal work.Evelina Tarabuta, Brighton

ILSPA Membership

ILSPA is committed to supporting you throughout your career. Whether you're just starting out or already an experienced Legal Secretary or PA, we're here to help you reach your full potential. As an ILSPA Member, you'll gain recognition, access to professional development resources, career guidance, help with finding employment and updates on law and industry trends.

Many law firms across the UK and internationally register their staff with ILSPA, giving their teams the resources and professional recognition that come with Membership. If you'd like your employer to support your Membership, you can download our letter template below to send to your manager. It explains how Membership benefits both you and your firm.

Our Members appreciate being part of a professional organisation that offers valuable support and a sense of community. Membership costs £50 a year including VAT, rising to £60 from 1 January 2027. Students enrolled on our courses receive their first year of Membership free.

Levels of Membership

Studying:	Student Membership This is open to anyone who wants to train as a Legal Secretary or enter the legal profession in a similar capacity. ILSPA Students receive free Membership for one year.
Qualified:	Affiliate Membership This is open to those who have gained ILSPA's Legal Secretaries Diploma or an equivalent legal secretarial qualification. Law Graduates are also eligible for Affiliate Membership.
1+ years:	Associate Membership (AILS) This is open to those who have a legal secretarial qualification/law degree plus at least one year’s legal experience OR at least two years’ legal experience by itself.
4+ years:	Fellowship Membership (FILS) This is open to those who have a legal secretarial qualification/law degree with at least four years’ legal experience OR at least six years’ legal experience by itself.

Membership Benefits

ILSPA's Exclusive Student and Member Area

ILSPA's online Student and Member area is a valuable hub designed to support both aspiring and experienced Legal Secretaries throughout their careers. This comprehensive platform offers a wealth of resources tailored to your needs, including detailed study materials, practical employment guidance, and a wide range of professional development tools. You’ll also find expert career advice to help you navigate the legal industry and achieve your goals.

For Students enrolled with the Institute, the platform provides seamless access to all course materials, ensuring an organised and comprehensive learning experience.

Whether you are enhancing your skills, preparing for your next career step, or seeking to refine your knowledge, this resource-rich environment is here to help you excel and succeed in your journey as a Legal Secretary.

Professional Recognition

ILSPA offers four levels of Membership, designed to recognise your qualifications and career progression: Student, Affiliate, Associate (AILS), and Fellowship (FILS). Each level reflects your achievements and experience within the legal profession.

Higher-level Members, such as Associates and Fellows, receive prestigious certificates that symbolise their accomplishments and commitment to excellence. They can also proudly use designatory letters (AILS or FILS) after their names, enhancing their professional credentials and showcasing their expertise.

Moreover, Associate and Fellowship Members hold a unique privilege: they are officially recognised by the government as qualified to countersign passport applications. This added distinction not only highlights the credibility of ILSPA Members but also underscores the prestige associated with these higher levels of Membership.

ILSPA's Membership Newsletter

Each month, you will receive a newsletter via email, keeping you updated with valuable resources and opportunities. The newsletter features highlights from our blog, showcasing insightful articles written by industry professionals. These posts are tailored to support your studies, broaden your knowledge, and refine your skills, helping you stay ahead in your career.

In addition, the newsletter includes the latest job vacancies from our Legal Secretary Jobs Board, offering a range of opportunities for both trainees and experienced professionals. You will also find detailed information about the exclusive benefits available to ILSPA Members, ensuring you make the most of your Membership as you progress in your legal career.

CV Help and Guidance to Secure Employment

We are committed to providing you with the support and guidance you need to maximise your chances of securing employment. ILSPA’s CV assistance ensures that your document is professional, polished, and highly effective in your job search. Since your CV is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, it’s crucial that it meets the highest standards, is tailored specifically for a Legal Secretary role, and effectively showcases your full range of skills, experience, and capabilities.

In addition, ILSPA’s Guide to Securing Employment offers invaluable insights to help you prepare for your job search. It covers everything from where to find job opportunities and how to apply, to mastering interview techniques and presenting yourself as the ideal candidate. With these resources, you’ll be fully equipped to achieve success in your career journey.

Exclusive Member Discounts and Events

Student Members have the opportunity to purchase a TOTUM Student Discount card and enjoy savings across a wide range of categories, including fashion, food and drink, entertainment, health and beauty, travel, and accommodation.

Both Students and Members are also eligible for discounts on select courses to enhance their administrative or legal skills. Whether you're looking to advance your Microsoft Office proficiency or take the next step by gaining Paralegal expertise, you can access these training opportunities at a reduced cost.

The Royal Courts of Justice (RCJ) in London also offers our Students and Members exclusive discounts on its tours. Visiting the RCJ is an unforgettable experience, bringing ILSPA's course material to life and providing a fascinating glimpse into the workings of a real-life court.

Additionally, ILSPA's partners occasionally hold complimentary events and webinars that Members can attend free of charge.

Ongoing Professional Development

ILSPA Members are actively encouraged to participate in our Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programme, a valuable initiative designed to foster ongoing growth and excellence in your career. This programme supports you in advancing your knowledge and skills, enabling you to consistently enhance the quality of your work and stay at the forefront of the legal profession.

By engaging in CPD activities, you can track and demonstrate your professional progression, building a strong foundation for long-term career success. Each year you complete the programme, you’ll receive a CPD certificate as a formal recognition of your dedication to professional development. This not only boosts your confidence and expertise but also strengthens your credibility as a skilled and proactive Legal Secretary.

CPD Programme

Professional Support

ILSPA brings together Legal Secretaries and PAs at all stages of their careers, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. As vital contributors to the legal profession, Legal Secretaries and PAs play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of legal practices, and we are here to support and encourage your commitment to this rewarding career path.

Whether you are just starting out, developing your expertise, or advancing to a more senior level, ILSPA is dedicated to providing the resources, guidance, and encouragement you need to succeed. Our goal is to empower you with the skills and confidence to excel in your role and to feel proud of the valuable work you do.

If you ever need advice or support, we encourage you to reach out. Our team is here to help with any questions or challenges you may encounter, ensuring that you always feel connected and supported as part of the ILSPA community.

Employer Funding Letter

Many employers are happy to cover the cost of ILSPA Membership once they understand what it offers. To make this easier, we've put together a letter template you can use to request funding from your employer.

The letter sets out the benefits of Membership and explains the value it brings to your employer, so all you need to do is add your own details and pass it on to your manager or decision maker.