In 1973, a group of Atlanta area paralegals joined together to form the Atlanta Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. Their objective was to provide support for persons entering this new field, and to promote the profession to the legal community. They also wanted to create a forum for contributing to the discussions and decisions of both state and local bar associations regarding training and utilization of paralegals by attorneys.

“Paralegalism” soon extended across the state, and it became apparent that people outside Atlanta needed a voice as well. Membership was expanded to include all legal assistants in Georgia. In January, 1976, AALA became GALA – Georgia Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. In 1997, GALA became GAP – Georgia Association of Paralegals, Inc.