Monday, December 16, 2013

The Paralegal Mentor's Awesome Almost-Famous Never-Fail Brownies


This is The Paralegal Mentor's go-to dessert recipe. Once you try them, you will never again resort to a packaged brownie mix. The ingredients are easy to keep on hand and it takes just minutes to mix up this treat. They will make you "Almost Famous"!!

Brownies:
1 cup butter (2 sticks)
4 1-ounce squares unsweetened chocolate
2 cups sugar
4 eggs, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt (may reduce to 1/2 teaspoon)
1 cup chopped nuts (optional) 
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9x13" pan. You can use just one saucepan to mix all ingredients.

In a large saucepan, melt butter and unsweetened chocolate. When melted, stir in sugar and set aside to cool.

Combine the vanilla with the slightly beaten eggs and stir into the chocolate mixture when it is cool enough so the eggs won't cook.

Stir in dry ingredients and add nuts. While the recipe says these are optional, they aren't optional at our house -- I always add chopped pecans.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for no more than 30 minutes. Start checking these at 20 minutes. They are done when top is shiny and sides start to pull away from the sides of the pan. Check the middle with a tooth pick to be sure it is not runny -- but remember these will continue to cook once out of the oven.

For the ultimate chocolate experience, make a frosting while the brownies are baking -- use the same pan you used to mix the batter.
Melt 2 squares unsweetened chocolate with 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in 5 tablespoons milk, dash of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Blend in 2 cups powdered sugar (measure and then sift). Pour over brownies while they are still warm.
Enjoy!
 
 

 

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Paralegals Need These Personality Traits - Part 2

In Part 1 of You Need These Personality Traits,   eleven important personality traits paralegals should possess were identified and explained.

The traits listed in Part 1 included: Adaptable, Anticipative, Confident, Conscientious, Decisive; Disciplined; Discreet; Efficient; Ethical; Flexible; Focused; and Hardworking. If you missed that article, follow this link to access it.

Time now for Part 2 and twelve additional positive traits paralegals need to build a career that can be sustained for the long haul:
Honest. Your character must be beyond reproach. Be good and truthful; never lie, steal or cheat. When you make a mistake, admit it, learn from it and move on. Never deny making the mistake or blame someone else. 
Incorruptible. Refuse to do something you know is wrong. Follow ethics rules, as well as the law. Never sign the attorney’s name to document and never notarize a document if you don’t it signed. Understand rules regarding Trust Accounts. 
Independent. Be a self-starter. Do tasks on your own. Establish systems and checklists so you know what needs to be done next and you are not asking the same questions over and over again or interrupting people to help you. 
Logical: Using the knowledge you possess, reach reasonable, sensible conclusions. Do your work in a sequence that will increase productivity. 
Loyal: Be faithful, trustworthy, and devoted. Be a loyal employee and do not criticize your employer, even if your employment has ended. Do not be the person who provokes others in the office to be unhappy with working conditions. 
Organized. Look at the work you have to do and plan how you will get it done. Look ahead and plan to meet deadlines. Arrange your office so that papers and files do not get lost. 
Perfectionist. Attempting to do a project without fault is important. Pay constant attention to detail. Always check for grammar and typographical errors. However, remember it is your effort that counts. You need to know when what you have done is good enough and you can stop working on it. 
Persistent. Be unrelenting, consistent and determined. Do not quit until the goal is reached or the work is completed. 
Punctual. Be prompt for work and for meetings. Arrive on time. Do what you say you will do when you say you will do it. Get your work done on time. 
Responsible. Be accountable, dependable, and sensible. You should be a person who can be trusted to do the right thing.  
Thorough. Again, pay attention to detail. Do everything you are supposed to do and leave nothing out. Plan for the unexpected. Always have a Plan B...and perhaps a Plan C and D
While there are many other traits that could be on this list, these will see you through on your path to career success. Which traits do you possess? Which do you need to work on?  What traits would you add to this list? Leave your comments below.
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© 2013 Vicki Voisin, Inc.  Do you want to use this article in your newsletter, ezine or Web site? Please contact Vicki Voisin. She will contact Stephanie for her approval.


Vicki Voisin, "The Paralegal Mentor", delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satisfaction by setting goals and determining the direction they will take their careers. Vicki spotlights resources, organizational tips, ethics issues, and other areas of continuing education to help paralegals and others reach their full potential. She is the co-author of The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success. Vicki publishes Paralegal Strategies, a weekly e-newsletter for paralegals, and hosts The Paralegal Voice, a monthly podcast pr oduced by Legal Talk Network.

More information is available at www.paralegalmentor.com where subscribers receive Vicki's 151 Tips for Your Career Success.

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Paralegals Need These Personality Traits - Part 1

Wikipedia lists 234 positive personality traits – and if Wikipedia says there are 234, it must be true, right? Not always. The list did not include “ethical.” But that's another article.

As I reviewed the list, I decided all 234 were good traits to have but there are some that paralegals must have to achieve career success.

Today I’ll cover 11 of those traits – 11 traits I’ve observed that are possessed by paralegals who have successful careers.
Anticipative – You must foresee what needs to be done. Don’t wait for instructions for every step of a project but develop that sixth sense of what’s coming next. Be sure to use checklists to document the steps you take for later use. 
Confident – The legal industry is no place for Timid Tillie. If you qualify to use the title paralegal, be confident in your abilities, skills, training, education and work experience. You can do this! 
Conscientious – Do your work carefully and thoroughly – always.  
Consistent – Deliver on a regular basis. Do what you say you will do; show up when you say you will; keep appointments and commitments. 
Disciplined – Stay with your project until it’s done, even though you’re tired, bored, and would rather be cruising the Internet. 
Discreet – Exercise prudence and self-control in what you say and what you do. Remember the rules of confidentiality and privilege. Do not discuss cases or clients with anyone who doesn’t need to know. 
Efficient – Produce the desired results without wasting materials, time, or energy. Always look for the best way to do things instead of relying on the way things have always been done. 
Ethical – Work in accordance with accepted principles of right and wrong that govern the conduct of the legal profession. Remember: members of the legal profession are held to a higher standard. Know and practice ethics rules. 
Flexible -- Be willing to change and try different things. Adapt to situations as they arise. Situations may include a difficult co-worker, a change in working conditions, or an emergency project. Whatever the situation, you must adjust and get the job done. 
Focused – Give everything you do your undivided attention until completion. 
Hardworking – Work with energy and commitment; always put effort and care into your work.
There is no such thing as a quick fix or an easy outcome when you work as a paralegal. There is no quitting when the going gets tough. And things can get tough – very tough.

There will be times when there is too much work to do and not enough time to do it. You can count on times of stress. These personality traits will see you through on your path to career success.

When you possess these traits, you will be able to move your career in the right direction: forward!
 
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© 2013 Vicki Voisin, Inc.  Do you want to use this article in your newsletter, ezine or Web site? Please contact Vicki Voisin. She will contact Stephanie for her approval.


Vicki Voisin, "The Paralegal Mentor", delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satisfaction by setting goals and determining the direction they will take their careers. Vicki spotlights resources, organizational tips, ethics issues, and other areas of continuing education to help paralegals and others reach their full potential. She is the co-author of The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success. Vicki publishes Paralegal Strategies, a weekly e-newsletter for paralegals, and hosts The Paralegal Voice, a monthly podcast produced by Legal Talk Network.

More information is available at www.paralegalmentor.com where subscribers receive Vicki's 151 Tips for Your Career Success.

Friday, November 8, 2013

How to Unearth Your Worth: Tips from a Professional Resume Writer

In this episode of The Paralegal Voice, Vicki Voisin invites Lori Howard, founder of Unearth Your Worth, to outline the key tips for your career transformation, including your job search, resume, and interview.

Howard also provides free instant access to the resources on her site for Paralegal Voice listeners!

After 15 years working in different offices and positions, Lori Howard suffered from burn out and her career needed a major fix. She discovered her passion is career transformation – helping those who are unhappy with their careers start fresh and find a job where they want to go to work in the morning. 

Lori is a Career Transformation Coach, Certified Story Coach, and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW). She works with professionals who are frustrated in their jobs and those in career transition determine what they really want to do and create a career they love.

Vicki and Lori share:
  • What to do when you aren’t getting fast results in your job search.
  • The main objective of your resume and what it should accomplish.
  • Common resume writing mistakes.
  • How the resume of a recent graduate will differ from the resume of someone with years of experience.
  • The first thing a potential employer looks for in a resume.
  • Tips for setting yourself apart from other job applicants.
  • Lori’s special offer for Paralegal Voice listeners
  • Vicki’s tips for your resume cover letter.
  • And more!
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just follow this link for connection information:
The Paralegal Voice also thanks its sponsor: NALA...The Association of Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Please share the links to this episode of The Paralegal Voice with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact the host at Vicki@paralegalmentor.com.com.
Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to any Legal Talk Network show, including The Paralegal Voice, by using the RSS Feed links or iTunes links at http://legaltalknetwork.com/rss-feeds/.

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Biz Buddies #14: Bumps in the Business Road: Dealing with the Unexpected



In this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals, Vicki and Tina talk about Dealing with Bumps in the Business Road: The Unexpected.
We have a winner! Our One Year Anniversary Celebration Winner is Pamela J. Starr who will receive a $20 Amazon gift card. Congratulations! 
Discussion included:
  • Vicki is BACK!  And she’s sharing stories regarding her knee replacement surgery, how she prepared, what she was unprepared for and how she dealt with it.
  • The totally unexpected:  Tina shares how she’s dealt with an unexpected need to ‘leave the grid'.
  • Can you do anything to prepare for the unexpected? If so, what and how?
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links:
Page URL: http://tobtr.com/s/5539731
iTunes Link:    https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4
Our next episode: Nov 14th – Holiday gifting tips and ideas

Please share the links to this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com .
 
Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals on iTunes.

Monday, July 29, 2013

Ethics by the Book: Lessons Learned from Legal Literature

Attention: Paralegals, Legal Secretaries, Attorneys and other Legal Professionals

Ethics by the Book: Lessons Learned from Legal Literature

Begins August 7th – Earn 1.5 Hours Ethics MCLE Credit

 
 How do ethics rules apply to you?
What steps should you take to comply with ethics rules and guidelines?

How can you learn the ethics rules without being bored to tears?

 The Paralegal Mentor has a solution:Ethics By The Book: Lessons Learned from Legal Literature


The responsibilities and ethical obligations of attorneys and paralegals are affected by various rules of professional conduct and national, state, and local professional association guidelines.
Paralegals and legal secretaries face the same ethics issues as attorneys and are responsible for following the ethics rules applicable to attorneys. They should not only know the applicable guidelines, but should also understand the rules of professional guidelines that apply to lawyers as they are likely to encounter them on a regular basis.
The more legal professionals are aware of the rules, the better they are able to avoid ethics problems. This webinar will provide an overview of the common ethics issues, guidelines and rules of professional conduct that apply to lawyers and the paralegals and legal secretaries who assist them.
Learning about ethics rules can be tedious and boring. To avoid the boredom, join The Paralegal Mentor for this unique learning experience.  

The Details:

  • You will read A Case of Redemption by Adam Mitzner over a period of 3 months
  • You will attend 3 one-half hour classes to discuss ethics situations encountered in the book and how they apply to ethics rules adopted by the ABA, various State Bar Association and by professional associations such as NALA, NALS and NFPA.You will receive a Certificate of Attendance verifying 1.5 hours of MCLE Ethics Credit You will receive a handout for each class with notes and applicable rules.
    • Note: Classes are held at 1pm Eastern on Wednesdays, August 7th, August 28th and September 25th. If you cannot attend any of the classes, you will be provided with the recording and a brief quiz to verify you reviewed the materials. You must participate in all 3 sessions to qualify for MCLE credit.  
  • You can attend this webinar by phone or via your computer -- it's your choice. There will be slides and you will be able to view them however you attend.
  • This course is approved for 1.5 hours Ethics MCLE by NALA. It will qualify for credit from NALS and NFPA and other certifying entities.
  • Registration fee: $57
    • Note: The customary investment for my ethics courses is $67. The fee for this course is reduced so you can apply the savings to the book’s purchase price.
register-now


About A CASE OF REDEMPTION:

acaseofredemption-e1369094481277Dan Sorensen was once a high-powered New York City defense attorney . . . but that was before a horrifying accident killed the two people in his life who meant the most, plunging him into a downward spiral. As he approaches rock bottom, Dan is unexpectedly offered the opportunity of a lifetime: defend an up-and-coming rapper in a murder trial on the front page of every newspaper. Although his client swears he’s innocent of the brutal slaying of his pop star girlfriend, proving it will not be easy, especially because he’s suspected of bragging about the crime in one of the hottest songs in the country.
 
Unsure that he’s ready to handle such a high-stakes case, Dan realizes this chance to save a man he believes has been falsely accused of murder just may be his last and only hope to put his own life back on track and achieve redemption for his past sins. But as Dan delves deeper and deeper into the case, he learns that atonement comes at a steep price. A powerful and riveting new voice in fiction, Adam Mitzner pulls out all the stops in his follow-up to the highly acclaimed A Conflict of Interest. A Case of Redemption is a gritty, sophisticated thriller that will draw fans of Scott Turow and John Grisham into a world of relentless suspense.
 About the Author: Adam Mitzner
Adam Mitzner graduated from Brandeis University with a B.A. and M.A. in politics, and from the University of Virginia School of Law. He lives in New York City where he is the head of the litigation department of Pavia & Harcourt LLP, in midtown Manhattan. Pavia & Harcourt recently received some acclaim because it is the law firm where Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor practiced before she was appointed to the bench. More information is available at http://AdamMitzner.com. You can also follow Adam on Facebook.


About the Presenter: Vicki Voisin, ACP

    Voisin_Vicki_ACP
  • A California State Bar approved MCLE provider;
  • Delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satisfaction by setting goals and determining the direction they will take their careers;
  • Spotlights resources, ethics issues, organizational tips, and other areas of continuing education to help paralegals and others reach their full potential;
  • Nationally recognized author and speaker regarding issues of interest to legal professionals;
  • Co-author of The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success;
  • Publisher of a weekly e-newsletter titled Paralegal Strategies;
  • Host of The Paralegal Voice, a monthly podcast produced by Paralegal Mentor Productions;
  • Earned a B.S. degree in Business Management from Central Michigan University;
  • Received the Advanced Paralegal Certification (ACP) from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA);
  • Received NALA’s 2012 Founder’s Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the growth and future of the paralegal profession, which impacted this profession in a positive manner for a significant period of time;
  • Current member and Past president of NALA; Presenter on NALA Campus LIVE! and at the 2012 Convention;
  • Current member of NALS…the association for legal professionals ; currently serving on NALS Grassroots Committee;
  • Current member and Past Chair of the Paralegal/Legal Assistant Section of the State Bar of Michigan;
  • Has worked in the paralegal field for over 20years;
  • More information is available at http://paralegalmentor.com.

Paralegal Warrior Training Course

Were you at the NALA Convention in Portland? Are you going to the NALS Convention in Atlanta? What about the NFPA Convention in Hartford?  Turns out, there was a convention for military paralegals at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin July 12 through 26. Who knew?

Paralegal soldiers from throughout the U.S. Army Reserve and Army National Guard came together to conduct the 2013 Paralegal Warrior Training Course.

The course, which includes classroom and tactical training, is designed to help soldiers refresh the paralegal skills they may not frequently use in their day-to-day military occupation.
“I don’t do anything paralegal related in my unit,” said Spc. Stephanie Hart, paralegal, 118th Military Police Battalion, Rhode Island National Guard. “I do more admin related stuff, so this course has really helped refreshed my memory from when I was in [Advanced Individual Training].”
The annual course, organized by the United States Army Reserve Command Staff Judge Advocate Office, is centered around keeping the students up-to-date on the changes frequently happening in the legal field of the military, said Sgt. Maj. David Becker, the command paralegal for the U.S. Army Reserve.

The course, now in its 17th iteration, continues to improve each year.
“Every year, we have built upon it to make it better for the students attending,” said Becker, a Bismarck, N.D., native. “It has traditionally been more classroom training, but over the past few years, we are trying to give them everything they need to be successful not only with the technical skills, but also develop their operational skills as well.”
Staff Sgt. Alex Ushomirsky, paralegal, 153rd Legal Operations Detachment, has attended the course twice and he agrees with Becker on the improvements.
“Before, it was more classroom focused,” he said. “We still went to the field and did some tactical training, but nothing like we did this year. This year, it was way above and beyond my expectations.”
This year, the students spent 36-hours in the field conducting tactical operations, including squad movements, urban operations, and medical evacuation training involving an actual MEDEVAC helicopter flying in to add realism to the training.
“Although the field training was hard this year, it was good. The inclusion of the helicopter for the MEDEVAC training was great,” Ushomirsky, a Philadelphia resident added.
Hart, a West Warwick, R.I., resident, said the training wasn’t what she was expecting before she arrived.
“I thought we were going to do a lot more classroom learning and less [physical training], hands-on and field training,” she said. “But, I really liked the field portion. I like doing tactical movements and battle drills.”
The students also conducted mock administrative separation boards and Article 15 hearings, allowing the soldiers to properly conduct proceedings they are likely to see in the legal field, said Master Sgt. Steve Minyard, the director of this year’s PWTC and Duncanville, Texas, native.

Spc. Edward Yi, paralegal, 300th Sustainment Brigade, said he has experience participating in administrative boards from his active duty service and felt the mock boards were accurate training.
“It was awesome,” the Rowlett, Texas, resident, said. “I think given the amount of time we had to prepare for the boards, we did really well and that our case would have won in a real-world situation.”
While Yi has experience with administrative boards, Staff Sgt. Joe Myers, paralegal, 8th LOD said he has little because his job as a paralegal is centered on more administrative areas.
“It was nice to experience the process,” Myers, a Wichita, Kan., resident, said. “I don’t get much experience on the board portion of the job, so I can definitely see this training being useful. I feel more confident now and feel I have a good starting block for future boards I might have to participate in.”
“There are so many different aspects of being an Army paralegal, so you never truly get to do it all at the same time,” Ushomirsky added. “This course gives you the chance to do all the other stuff you wouldn’t otherwise get to.”
Ushomirsky urges paralegal soldiers in the Reserve and National Guard to attend the PWTC as soon as possible saying, future students will leave with more knowledge and capability.
“I strongly recommend you come here, it is a great course and the instructors provide great training,” he said. “When you do this training, you will not only be prepared to continue your career as a paralegal, but you will be more prepared for the [Advanced Leader Course] and [Senior Leader Course] allowing you to further your career in this field.”
Source: dvids (Defense Video & Imagery Distribution System) 
http://tinyurl.com/m7k73jq

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Paralegal Writing Skills

On this edition of The Paralegal Voice, Vicki Voisin explores paralegal writing skills with noted legal writing educator, Gary Kinder. They focus on the importance of writing skills and how paralegals can improve those skills.

Fine tuned writing skills are pivotal to a firm’s success. They affect first impressions through websites, newsletters, client leads, emails or network listings, client representation, legal write ups, and the list goes on.

Gary Kinder is a lawyer and New York Times bestselling author. He has taught over 1,000 writing programs to prestigious law firms nationwide. His career is dedicated to teaching legal professionals how to write precisely, vividly, concisely and memorably. He channeled years of experience studying superior legal writing and editing into the creation of WordRake, software designed to help law firms and organizations tighten their prose and become better writers. He also authors a weekly writing tips blog called WriteToThePoint.com.

Vicki and Gary share:
  • The basics of the Plain Writing Act of 2010
  • How the Act affects paralegals.
  • Common writing pitfalls and how to avoid them
  • The common problem most people have with legal writing
  • Why it may not be a good idea to adopt the writing style of the lawyer(s) you work with
  • Technology tools that will help with writing skills
  • Why points in your writing must be expressed as succinctly as possible
  • The THREE items you must own if you want your writing skills to progress
  • And more!
In the Practice Tips section of the show, Vicki provides guidelines for gathering sufficient information from a potential client so the firm can decide whether or not to accept a case.
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just follow this link for connection information: http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/paralegal-voice/2013/07/paralegal-writing-skills/ 
The Paralegal Voice also thanks its sponsor: NALA...The Association of Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Please share the links to this episode of The Paralegal Voice with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact the host at Vicki@paralegalmentor.com.com.
Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to any Legal Talk Network show, including The Paralegal Voice, by using the RSS Feed links or iTunes links at http://legaltalknetwork.com/rss-feeds/.

Biz Buddies: Tips for Working with Friends

In this 13th episode of Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals, Vicki and Tina talk about Working with Friends. 

They discuss:
  • The Biz Buddy One Year Anniversary Celebration where you can win:
    $20 gift card to Amazon.com After listening to this podcast, go to the Clerical Advantage Facebook Page  (like us if you haven’t already) and tell us you’re a friend of Biz Buddies. You can get as creative as you want.  The winner will be announced on our August episode.
A copy of The Professional Paralegal; How to Find a Job and Career Success; This book (co-authored by Vicki with Charlsye Smith Diaz, PhD) is a $60 value and contains tips that would help everyone with resumes, organizing office, time management. Just leave a comment below about the benefit(s) of listening to podcasts.   Winner to be announced on our August episode.
  • And a Special offer for all of our Biz Buddies Friends:
  • Vicki is offering a steep discount on her Virtual Paralegal Interview Series, a 6 CD set that includes interviews with 6 people who have established successful virtual businesses. Regular price is $79... reduced to $47 for Biz Buddies fans. Go to www.paralegalmentor.com and click on the "resources" page to order this product..
Vicki and Tina also discuss:        
  • The benefits of working with a friend
  • Is there a downside to working with friends?
  • How do you charge friends?
  • What about bartering?
  • What if your friends ask for free services?
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links:
Page URL: http://tobtr.com/s/5048415
iTunes Link:    https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4
Please share the links to this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com

Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals on iTunes.

Monday, July 8, 2013

Paralegal Profile: Kerie S. Trindle Byrne, CP, PLS

Keri S. Trindle Byrne, CP, PLS,  is a Legal Assistant who specializes in family law at May, Potenza, Baran & Gillespie, P.C. in Phoenix. She earned an Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies from Phoenix College.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1.  What prompted you to choose a paralegal career?  The paralegal profession chose me.  I was a young college student working two full time jobs when I was asked by my roommate’s mom to help her move her law office.

I showed up early on a Saturday morning, packed boxes and hustled.  Before I knew it, they asked me to draft some letters to clients. When I did a good job and impressed them with my writing skills and work ethic, they hired me for a part time secretarial position. They also connected me with another attorney who needed part time secretarial help.

Before I knew it, the other attorney was training me to draft everything from initial family law pleadings to complex pretrial criminal motions. She became my mentor and I eventually began working for her full time in a paralegal role. She encouraged me to learn as much as I could about being a paralegal and she provided me with the space to do it.

2.  What is your favorite part of your job?  I found that I have a passion for people driven law like family and criminal, rather than paper driven law.  I feel most at home with the social work aspect of my career.  I am the conduit by which clients are able to communicate their fears, frustrations, anxieties and needs to their attorney.  When I can be a patient and understanding ear for clients and help them get to a place where they can take a breath, calm down and be connected with the lawyer so they can receive the legal advice they need, I am at my best.  My day is complete and I feel most fulfilled when I am able to help someone through one of the most difficult moments in their life.

3.  What professional associations do you belong to?  I am a member of NALS…the association for legal professionals.

4.  How has your membership benefited you?  NALS has provided me with opportunities for personal and professional growth and I cannot imagine my life without it.  NALS is a top-notch legal professional organization that offers education, certification and networking.

At first, I joined because I wanted to be a member of the club.  My friend was a member and she made it sound like a really fun place to be.  Once I joined and began attending meetings, I learned just how right she was.  The other members had “it” and I wanted “it.” Inspiration came to me at every meeting to obtain my certification and complete my degree in paralegal studies.  Both of which, I did with the support of my local chapter.  So many members of the association have become mentors to me and have helped me navigate challenging situations.

In addition to the countless continuing legal education credits I have earned, the certifications and degree I achieved, the opportunities to serve in local, state and national leadership roles, I have a built in network of cheerleaders and friends. I have become a cheerleader for the profession and others who want more from their careers and I would not enjoy the success I have today without NALS.

5.  What has been the highlight of your career?  I would say I have not yet had “the highlight” of my career.  I was, however, honored to be awarded the NALS of Phoenix Award of Excellence in 2012.  It was a proud moment for me.

6.  If someone contemplating a paralegal career asked you for career advice, what would your answer be?  Be prepared to work hard and take every opportunity.   Attorneys and supervisors need to see you working hard to complete projects efficiently and completely.  When they do, they will give you more opportunities and responsibilities to grow in your career.

7.  Is there a quote that inspires you?  “Think, Believe, Dream, Dare” by Walt Disney.  I live this quote everyday as I think of ways to do things in my life better, believe in myself, dream the big dreams and dare to do them.

8.  What is the most important step a paralegal can take to keep his or her career interesting?  Be the person who volunteers to do something you have never done before and be clear about your inexperience.  There are opportunities where attorneys need extra help on projects that don’t have tight deadlines and they are willing to train someone who is willing to learn.  Attorneys a d supervisors love people who show a willingness to learn and who take initiative.  If you are available to assist with a project, tell them you have never done it before, but you are willing to give the project a try. This keeps your skills fresh and your mental acuity sharp, plus it makes the job interesting and allows you to develop marketable skills in other areas.

9.  Who would play you in a movie of your life? For some reason, every time I look at this question Kathy Bates comes to mind.  She seems to always play strong willed characters with an energetic, no-holds-barred, spitfire personality.  That’s how I see myself, strong, self-assured, but a little rough around the edges.

10.  What was the last movie you saw in the theater? Technically, this answer is Zero Dark Thirty. I say technically, because I attended the 2013 Best Picture Showcase and saw all nine Best-Picture nominees over two consecutive Saturdays.  So, the day I saw Zero Dark Thirty, I also saw Beasts of the Southern Wild, Life of Pi, Lincoln and Silver Linings Playbook.  It was a great day.

11.  What TV channel do you most often have on? I am a cultural sponge, so I am soaking up a ton of information from many sources.  The History Channel and NatGeo rank among my favorites.

12.  What song do you often sing to yourself? Three Little Birds by Bob Marley “…don’t worry, about a thing, ‘cause every little thing gonna be all right.”

13.  Where do you like to go to have fun? Fun isn’t a place to me, it is a state of mind.  As I do my work or take on new tasks and responsibilities, I try to remember the quote by Mary Poppins, “in every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.”  However, I love Disneyland.  It is the happiest place on Earth for me and has been for my entire life.  My parents took our family to Disneyland every year at least once no matter our circumstances.  Even if it meant my parents, my sister, brother and I had to scrimp and save or do extra jobs in the months leading to vacation, we always had that time to look forward to as a family.  Since marrying my husband Derek, and gaining two bonus children, visiting Disneyland has renewed meaning for me as I share these traditions with my own family. We try to go several times a year and we have a blast. 

Bonus Question: Is there a song lyric that best describes you or your philosophy on life? I have a playlist on my iPod titled “Big Picture.”  So many of the songs on that playlist have a special meaning to me and they are all a part of my life philosophy.  The song I most identify with is I Stand by Idina Menzel. The chorus is, “I stand for the power to change. I live for the perfect day. I love ‘til it hurts like crazy. I hope for a hero to save me. I stand for the strange and lonely.  I believe there’s a better place. I don’t know if the sky is heaven, but I pray anyway.”

Monday, June 3, 2013

Dennyce Korb: 2013 Advocate Capital/AAJ Paralegal of the Year

Dennyce Korb, a paralegal at the Johnson Eiesland Law Offices, P.C., in Rapid City, South Dakota has been named the recipient of the 2013 Advocate Capital, Inc. / AAJ Paralegal of the Year Award.

Dennyce has been a paralegal for over 30 years. During that time she has worked mostly with clients who have been injured by nursing home abuse and neglect, medical malpractice, or defective products. She has actively participated in the trial of nearly 100 cases.

To be considered for this prestigious award, candidates must have demonstrated their value as members of a legal services team, shown dedication to the legal profession, and shown dedication to AAJ's mission. In addition to a beautifully engraved award trophy, she will receive free airfare, hotel and conference registration for the AAJ Annual Convention July 20 – July 23, 2013 in San Francisco, California.
"AAJ recognizes the immense importance of Paralegals to the legal profession, and how happy we are to be able to give something back to the paralegals who work so hard to help attorneys attain justice for their clients," commented, AAJ President, Mary Alice McLarty. 
"This year's recipient, Dennyce Korb, is an excellent example of professionalism in her career and in her work for AAJ.  She attends all of the conventions and is always ready to help a colleague.  She also has a winning personality and is an exceptional singer." 
"Dennyce's dedication to her clients, work and education is impressive and her passion for AAJ's mission is unmatched," commented Advocate's President and Chief Executive Officer, Michael J. Swanson. We are so pleased to be able to collaborate with AAJ on this important award. Paralegals are a key component to any successful law firm.  We hope that this award will help bring well deserved attention to the crucial role that paralegals play in our Nation's civil justice system." (emphasis added).
Congratulations, Dennyce!

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Biz Buddies: Vacation Tips for Virtual Professionals


With Memorial Day still a fresh memory, Biz Buddies Tina Marie Hilton of Clerical Advantage and Vicki Voisin, The Paralegal Mentor, discuss vacation time for virtual professionals, including the challenges of disconnecting and the importance of taking time away from your business.

Tina and Vicki addressed: 
  • How vacations differ for business owners and employees
  • Making time for vacations
  • Working vacations
  • Mini-vacations
  • Handling Holidays
  • Stay-cations
  • Earning passive revenue during vacation
  • The benefits of taking vacation time
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links:
iTunes Link:    https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Please share the links to this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com .

Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals on iTunes.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

The Paralegal Voice: Paralegal Hiring Trends

On this episode of The Paralegal Voice Charles Volkert, executive director of Robert Half Legal, joins host Vicki Voisin to discuss the future of the paralegal profession, how it’s changing, and specific steps you can take to land your dream job.

Charles Volkert is executive director for Robert Half Legal and co-managing director of Robert Half Legal eDiscovery Services.

Robert Half Legal is the premier provider of highly skilled legal professionals for law firms and corporate legal departments; it also offers legal project management and managed review services. Volkert is a noted author, speaker, and former litigator.

Volkert provides valuable advice on how to get noticed in the field, including the importance of a proactive mindset and the need to be flexible. Talking points for this episode include:
  • The current employment environment;
  • The most in demand practice areas;
  • The new “hybrid” paralegal;
  • The most important criteria for hiring paralegals;
  • What employers are looking for in terms of technical proficiency and soft skills;
  • The importance of the right mindset;
  • What employers are looking for in terms of education and training;
  • Current salary trends;
  • And more!
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links:
MP3 Link:    http://legaltalkmedia.com/LTN/PLV/Paralegal_Hiring_Trends.mp3

The Paralegal Voice also thanks its sponsor: NALA...The Association of Paralegals and Legal Assistants.

Please share the links to this episode of The Paralegal Voice with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact Vicki at Vicki@paralegalmentor.com

Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to any Legal Talk Network show, including The Paralegal Voice, by using the RSS Feed links or iTunes links at http://legaltalknetwork.com/rss-feeds/.

Sunday, April 21, 2013

Maneuvering Your Paralegal Career from Start to Finish


On the April edition of The Paralegal Voice Vicki Voisin hosts Charlsye Smith Diaz, PhD, a former paralegal who is now a professor of technical writing at The University of Maine.

Diaz and Voisin met through The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and there they decided to co-author a book, The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success. The book was written with both beginning and experienced paralegals in mind.

In this episode of The Paralegal Voice, Voisin and Diaz discuss the different phases of a paralegal career, including writing and interview tips, what to do when you get a job, how to organize your workspace and your time, as well as the steps to take to make your career both interesting and fulfilling.

Also in this episode:
  • How Charlsye transitioned from paralegal to Phd.
  • Why Charlsye and Vicki wrote The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success
  • Why paralegal students should participate in internships
  • What employers are looking for when they review a student’s resume
  • What NOT to include in your resume
  • Why you should keep your resume up to date
  • Interviewing tips
  • Tips for getting organized and managing your time
Websites mentioned in this episode:
 Be sure to follow these links to access the program, as well as Internet resources and links mentioned. Please share the links to this episode of The Paralegal Voice with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at Vicki@paralegalmentor.com.

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Paralegals Can Cook: Roasted Chicken Thighs with Roasted Mixed Vegetables

This recipe was adapted from one that appeared in the April 2013 issue of Martha Stewart Living. I usually don't change the original recipe until I try it once but this one begged for a few more ingredients. Also, how do you like my new quartz countertop? I'm loving the kitchen remodel.
 
Roasted Chicken Thighs with Roasted Mixed Vegetables

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 pounds)

3-5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 pint grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise

1/2 cup pitted Spanish olives (I used smaller pimiento-stuffed olives)

1-2 medium onions, halved and quartered

4 small red potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size (you may need more than 4 if you're serving more people)

Asparagus spears (Note that I used thinner stalks and they wilted in the roasting process but still tasted fine; fatter stalks would roast better)

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper. Feta cheese, crumbled

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. Add 3 tablespoons olive oil to a large bowl. Add chicken thighs, turning to coat. Salt and pepper to taste. Move thighs to a large rimmed baking sheet lined liberally with aluminum foil (saves on clean-up).

3. Add remaining vegetables to the large bowl and coat with olive oil. You may need more olive oil. Salt and pepper to taste. Move to baking sheet with the chicken. This should all be in a single layer so use a baking sheet that is quite large.

4. Roast until a thermometer inserted into thickest parts of thighs (do not touch bones) reaches 165 degrees. This will take 35-45 minutes. Remove chicken to a platter and cover loosely with foil.

5. Return vegetables to oven and roast until golden brown in places, probably an additional 10 minutes.

6. Transfer vegetables and accumulated juices to platter with chicken. Season with salt and pepper if desired (I didn't find this necessary). Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.

Serve with crusty bread or rolls.

Note: Your only clean-up should be the bowl you used to coat chicken and vegetables with olive oil, the serving platter, and your dinner dishes. Very simple!

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Biz Buddies: Do Your Clients Know About Your Services?


This month's episode of Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals explores why your clients may not be utilizing your services to the maximum potential and what you can do to fix it.
Do your clients know about all of your services? 
Are they turning to someone else for services you offer simply because they aren't aware you provide them? 
Are there services that they aren't taking advantage of that could be helping their businesses? 
Hosts Tina Marie Hilton and Vicki Voisin discuss:
  • Why clients of virtual assistants  hire them for a certain service but are never aware of the full scope of services offered;
  • Ways to keep clients aware of what you offer: and
  • What to do if your client goes to someone else for what you already offer? 
Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links:
Please share the links to this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals with your friends and colleagues. If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com .
Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals on iTunes.
 






 
 


Tuesday, April 2, 2013

The Paralegal Voice To Give Away 2 Tickets to the Season Finale of Dancing With The Stars


The Paralegal Voice, a podcast hosted by Vicki Voisin on Legal Talk Network, will be giving away two tickets to the 2013 spring season finale of Dancing With The Stars.

Through the Paralegal Voice podcast, Vicki Voisin highlights the latest trends and issues that paralegals, legal administrators, and legal assistants face. She is one of the best known paralegals and is a leading voice in the paralegal community with over 20 years of experience as The Paralegal Mentor.
 
The giveaway winner will be announced the week of April 22nd, and will receive two free tickets to the season finale of Dancing With The Stars in addition to airfare to Los Angeles and hotel accommodations in the Los Angeles area. Only residents of the continental United States that are 18 years and older are eligible to participate.

Season 16, which kicked off on March 18th, features a cast including Olympians Alexandra Raisman (gymnastics) and Dorothy Hamill (figure skating), comedians Andy Dick and D.L. Hughley, country star Wynona Judd, Jacoby Jones of the Baltimore Ravens, and more.

To enter, participants must subscribe to the Legal Talk Network Newsletter with the Paralegal Voice selected as a show preference. The winner will be selected randomly from the participants.

Dancing With The Stars is a television competition that pits various celebrities and their dancing partners against each other as America votes each week to determine elimination. The season finale caps off the competition by deciding the winning celebrity dancer.

About Legal Talk Network: Legal Talk Network is an online media network for legal professionals. Our podcasts highlight important issues in a talk show format. They’re produced by professionals and available on-demand on the Legal Talk Network website, in iTunes, by free subscription to RSS and from legal portals, blogs and social networking sites. Listeners make connections with colleagues in a B2B environment, helping everyone meet the challenges of a changing legal world.