tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51527152871929634112024-03-12T23:38:02.080-04:00Vicki Voisin - The Paralegal Mentor with Paralegal Career StrategiesVicki Voisin is dedicated to helping Paralegals reach their professional goals while striking balance in their personal lives. If you're ready to get in your ‘zone’ and make those small changes that will lead to big improvements in your personal and professional life, subscribe to my bi-weekly ezine by entering your name and email into the sign up form on our website to get free tips and information.Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.comBlogger502125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-29647581258811239252015-04-01T16:11:00.001-04:002015-04-01T16:11:37.497-04:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://paralegalmentor.com/blog/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="follow the blog at it's new location" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPHUReHHNIOtQdmmWOXb4dep9MR0bo-2F3X4tmENsYvsOkZG60MywPTWW5uj7RUeiurMoc1AprrhVIk_ygDoCxYOZR-OkM8wdl4PdfAHNsMtVAbINqa6jOgMMyry6pXL_VdXJmfE55gfU/s1600/duck-220226_640.jpg" height="208" title="Follow us to the new blog location" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow us to this blog's new location on the Paralegal Mentor website!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just a quick note to let everyone know to change their bookmarks for this blog. The Paralegal Mentor Blog is now a part of The Paralegal Mentor website. You can find it at <a href="http://paralegalmentor.com/blog/">http://paralegalmentor.com/blog/</a> . Don't miss a post, follow the blog at it's <a href="http://paralegalmentor.com/blog/" target="_blank">new location</a>. Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-76930618034401594762015-03-11T08:00:00.000-04:002015-03-11T08:00:12.161-04:00How Do You Define "Office"?<b>What does the word "office mean to you?</b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6IMhTbBHKH8w7zlkBwI9pWykr1jrONawEp3qlIj4pCu-tSCxcgbEfx1ZWdNzJ53Si1w8vdNCqgHXr6BSguA4i57Y_dgYrYVCHh8-JGXchQoB8r0zDyVocyXYUU7n3BdtegQ2fZw6V0c/s1600/Office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6IMhTbBHKH8w7zlkBwI9pWykr1jrONawEp3qlIj4pCu-tSCxcgbEfx1ZWdNzJ53Si1w8vdNCqgHXr6BSguA4i57Y_dgYrYVCHh8-JGXchQoB8r0zDyVocyXYUU7n3BdtegQ2fZw6V0c/s1600/Office.jpg" height="137" width="200" /></a></div>
Is it just space you're occupying while you wait for something better to come along ... or until it's time to retire?</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Is it just a place to go each day, put in the required hours, do the necessary work, head out at quitting time, and pick up a check on payday?</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Or is it your home away from home? A very personal space filled with memories, laughter, and co-workers who seem like family? A place with a feeling of community?</blockquote>
<b>The time you spend at your office is one of the biggest investments you will make during your lifetime.</b> Whether you are in a corner office with a fantastic view or among a labyrinth of cubicles offering little privacy, your office should be more than four walls and a desk. It should be a place that seeps into your heart, a place that becomes your home away from home.<br />
<br />
Whatever your space, you will be happier, more content, and (perhaps) more productive if you make your office a place that reflects your personality and a place you enjoy being. How do you do that? <br />
<br />
<b>Here are some suggestions:</b><br />
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Personal Items:</b> Fill your office with meaningful items that make you smile or bring back great memories. While you must be careful not to clutter your space, you should display your awards and framed certificates. You could add significant pictures of your spouse, children or grandchildren -- or your last vacation. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Collections:</b> Do you have a nice collection of water globes or paperweights you've picked up at conventions? Or a collection of medals you received at races you ran? Or maybe several mugs you purchased to remind you of a happy event? Display them with pride and smile when you see them. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Plants:</b> Adding a bit of green to your office can work wonders to lighten your mood and (I've heard) have a positive impact on memory retention, focus, accuracy and concentration. They promote a more relaxed atmosphere. You say you don't have a green thumb? Choose something easy to grow (an ivy, a cactus, a terrarium, a Fairy Garden) and do the best you can. Or find a co-worker with a green thumb who's willing to help. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp_WYQSQmmrF54VE2BVI_JXE3uL3AwH8Kl_pXWYSX8hewweIITzHLnqNKY8fO8nWb9qPoniFC5xGvh8hDdxOyqLxVBghcAqhUM1eAdWE4OYfqLVw3cp35cu9nPiJcrLde-8q66_ENd3Y/s1600/Lacelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp_WYQSQmmrF54VE2BVI_JXE3uL3AwH8Kl_pXWYSX8hewweIITzHLnqNKY8fO8nWb9qPoniFC5xGvh8hDdxOyqLxVBghcAqhUM1eAdWE4OYfqLVw3cp35cu9nPiJcrLde-8q66_ENd3Y/s1600/Lacelle.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Participate:</b> Is your department participating in a fundraiser for a worthy cause such as a walk for breast cancer, doing a pro bono project, or dressing up for an office-wide costume contest? Don't be left out! When you participate in office activities, you build relationships and get to know your co-workers better. AND you'll have fun. Orange County Paralegal Association President Vicky LaCelle, ACP, posted this picture on Facebook of her fellow workers in the Legal Department that won the Beckman Coulter Halloween costume contest! BEST TEAM - "Legal Holidays". (Beckman Coulter Inc., is an American company that makes biomedical laboratory instruments.) </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTmF-V9-FBuqAI1-piv4Kp0rO0waa1UjJKe1qJxAmD0UL7h4YN5KfJxXdQFjRHgjIIqUSoqhkAJa2LKNyNL61cikksFKPGj9i6gRS6vFN4luMWW1NhDQfyM-SZtk4sZFUhnBxIAMlTK8/s1600/Lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTmF-V9-FBuqAI1-piv4Kp0rO0waa1UjJKe1qJxAmD0UL7h4YN5KfJxXdQFjRHgjIIqUSoqhkAJa2LKNyNL61cikksFKPGj9i6gRS6vFN4luMWW1NhDQfyM-SZtk4sZFUhnBxIAMlTK8/s1600/Lavender.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Celebrate:</b> Is someone in your office having a special birthday, expecting a baby, getting married, retiring? Join in to make it a big deal! This builds camaraderie and friendships. You'll be happier and feel more at home when you take part in the fun. An example is this picture of Sandy Lavender whose Clark Hill co-workers recently celebrated her birthday. They decorated her office, brought in a cake, and pulled other stunts to make it a day she won't forget. While I'm stressing celebrations, please don't ignore the office holiday party. Go, even if you are hesitant. Your absence will be noticed.</blockquote>
<b>Your Challenge:</b> If your office isn't already your home away from home, a special place where you spend nearly one-third of your life, think about the steps you might take to change that. By adding things that reflect your personality and make you happy, a bit of greenery to improve the atmosphere, participating in office activities and celebrations, you'll soon find your office is a place where you belong and where you want to be.<br />
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">© 2015 Vicki Voisin, Inc. Do you want to use this article in your newsletter, ezine or Web site? You can, so long as you include this entire blurb with it:<br /><br />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.<br /><br />More information is available at www.paralegalmentor.com where subscribers receive Vicki's 151 Tips for Your Career Success.</span></div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-91216532698574437502015-03-10T14:28:00.000-04:002015-03-10T14:28:01.775-04:00Five Law Firms Named to Fortune Magazine Top 100 List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvk0A_1bvzjpsZBxfIDZf_W3H8NI0TeDPmM8sAJg0pUYKWZGlVubzTvZACB43-3n9asWJRb-v6k9YnqIAFKI3ZliPdDf1jKYvF2oH9zusD4scMs_cRCuVfXh1GKinKOIGKNU2bZprh8A/s1600/bigstock-Business-Team-Success-5448633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvk0A_1bvzjpsZBxfIDZf_W3H8NI0TeDPmM8sAJg0pUYKWZGlVubzTvZACB43-3n9asWJRb-v6k9YnqIAFKI3ZliPdDf1jKYvF2oH9zusD4scMs_cRCuVfXh1GKinKOIGKNU2bZprh8A/s1600/bigstock-Business-Team-Success-5448633.jpg" height="152" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Fortune magazine has released its latest list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For.</b> Fortune based its rankings on a survey sent to a random sample of employees, as well as a "culture audit" that gathers information about pay, benefits and workplace programs.<br /><br />The five law firms that made this list (and why) are:</span></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Baker Donelson</b> (No. 30). Its Fortune description: “Southern law firm has a five-to-10-minute meeting called the Daily Docket every morning to keep everyone on the same page. The company also offers a flexible work schedule and, in some instances, paid sabbaticals, letting employees structure work around their personal needs and goals.”</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Alston & Bird </b>(No. 41). Its Fortune description: “BigLaw without big egos is how employees describe this international law firm. Job seekers who are rude to receptionists don’t get hired. And project presentations by attorneys often end with a slide crediting not only lawyers but staff such as an audio-visual specialist or librarian.” </span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Cooley</b> (No. 42) Cooley rose 58 places this year. Its Fortune description: “Support staff is treated well at this international law firm. A contribution of 7.5 percent of pay is made to eligible employees’ 401(k) accounts and is fully vested after only two years. And if staff members fail to sign up for a 401(k), Cooley will automatically enroll them at the 5 percent level.” </span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Perkins Coie</b> (No. 46). Its Fortune description: “Law firm bills itself as the ‘legal counsel to great companies’ (clients range from Amazon to Microsoft and Starbucks). Recently celebrated its 100th anniversary by giving every employee a book of the firm’s history. It also gives awards based on candy bars (a Nestle Crunch bar for ‘You helped me out in a crunch!’ a Power Bar for ‘You really helped us power through’). An anonymous Happiness Committees leaves gifts at workstations. New attorneys in some offices are asked to write and put on a funny skit, always creating as ridiculous a role as possible for the managing partner.” </span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Arnold & Porter</b> (No. 75). Its Fortune description: “Law firm passed out longevity bonuses ranging from $1,250 to $5,000 to staffers with more than 10 years of service. Other great benefits: 18 weeks paid maternity leave, $10,000 adoption aid and coverage for gender [reassignment] surgery.”</span></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">All of these law firms were on last year's list. Cooley gained the most in rankings, moving from No. 100 last year to No. 42 this year.<br /><br />To access the full list, follow this link:<a href="http://fortune.com/best-companies/"> http://fortune.com/best-companies/</a>.</span></span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-31495143574577550482015-03-05T13:24:00.002-05:002015-03-09T12:41:13.223-04:00Paralegal Profile: Heidi Stephens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WHKRDVm-urRoh1qSsAMXfvnhFDp7_u10qu1XtwMCf5XUn9CS7BxfEo5CdTmFrKR_3zLY-lCqSQRPgm6CQD7uSPyyG1VYM9EI4NnIO1sdPWpXc6q2Ky1t_GXL4SLwXM1fSROL-V9lmcs/s1600/Stephens_Heidi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4WHKRDVm-urRoh1qSsAMXfvnhFDp7_u10qu1XtwMCf5XUn9CS7BxfEo5CdTmFrKR_3zLY-lCqSQRPgm6CQD7uSPyyG1VYM9EI4NnIO1sdPWpXc6q2Ky1t_GXL4SLwXM1fSROL-V9lmcs/s1600/Stephens_Heidi.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Heidi Stephens is a freelance paralegal who resides in Griffin, Georgia.</b> Her clients include Imerys, eMerchantBroker.com, and various other companies. Heidi has an AS/Paralegal Studies from Liberty University and will receive her BS/Paralegal Studies from Liberty University in 2015.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
~~~~~~~~~~~~</div>
<b>1. What prompted you to choose a paralegal career?</b> I love the research. I love the writing. I love the challenge. I actually fell in love with the idea of it during jury duty. Seriously.<br />
<br />
<b>2. What is your favorite part of your job? </b> The research. I love legal writing, but I love the hunt of finding information that is hidden away.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>3. What professional associations do you belong to?</b> NALS.<br />
<br />
<b>4. How has your membership benefited you?</b> I love the online education. Webinars and recordings are great at providing an added element when something is confusing on paper.<br />
<br />
<b>5. If someone contemplating a paralegal career asked you for career advice, what would your answer be? </b>Love reading and writing. I lost count of how many people I was in class with who complained that they hated reading and writing. Also, read, re-read, and re-read again. A lot of times the information you need (be it for class or for work) is found the second…or third…or forth…time you read the information.<br />
<br />
<b>6. What is your favorite kind of music?</b> Eeek…I’m a mixed bag, I like classic rock…Rush, The Doors, Pink Floyd, but I also like “catchy” tunes, like those from The Sleigh Bells and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.<br />
<br />
<b>7. What electronic device can you not live without? </b>Laptop… tablet… desktop… anything that I can access my email from.<br />
<br />
<b>8. What’s your favorite food?</b> Coconut cake. We have a family friend who makes the most amazing coconut cake!<br />
<br />
<b>9. What is the one thing you wish you were better at?</b> Patience. I’m not patient.<br />
<br />
<b>10. What is your favorite hobby?</b> Crocheting. I have a callus on my hand to prove it ;)<br />
<br />
<b>11. Speaking of your iPod, anything on it that has you hitting the repeat button?</b><br />
Simon & Garfunkle’s Bridge Over Troubled Waters<br />
<br />
<b>12. I understand you make a mean oven-fried okra. What's your secret?</b> Italian breadcrumbs and hot sauce.<br />
<br />
<b>13. What TV channel do you most often have on?</b> CNN International. Or whatever channel the Atlanta Braves game is on.<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Bonus Question: What are your favorite Web sites?</b> RT…Huffington Post…Corporette blog.Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-13420020985473471432015-03-03T19:47:00.000-05:002015-03-03T19:47:38.388-05:00Paralegal Dilemma: Should Mary Demand a Raise?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxkcZPhaPLFp-PAqS9BErhf7GJw_SUunQiqt2ZOBeqUa8nwuQ6VpWSTrlksCbvhwRB9Fwp12RFK_GK2IsQyBGHW6syZb-7cke-2ItI_nbyaOfWooSz4zb2xbt7jjX7THe7i1wpuW0d34/s1600/bigstock-Make-More-Money-209x159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxkcZPhaPLFp-PAqS9BErhf7GJw_SUunQiqt2ZOBeqUa8nwuQ6VpWSTrlksCbvhwRB9Fwp12RFK_GK2IsQyBGHW6syZb-7cke-2ItI_nbyaOfWooSz4zb2xbt7jjX7THe7i1wpuW0d34/s1600/bigstock-Make-More-Money-209x159.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>A plea for advice came to me this week from a paralegal I’ll call “Mary.”</strong> Here’s the story (note, the names have been changed to protect the innocent!):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"Mary" graduated from an ABA approved paralegal program and has worked at Mega Lawyers in Anytown, USA for five years. Her title: paralegal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“Susie” is Mary’s co-worker. Susie graduated from the same ABA approved program as Mary. She has worked at Mega Lawyers for 3 years. Her title: paralegal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>The issue?</strong> Mary knows she and Susie receive the same compensation, even though she (Mary) feels Susie spends more time on the telephone and Facebook than she does working. Also, Mary thinks she has more responsibility than Susie and her additional experience should translate to her making more money than Susie.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Mary is frustrated, unhappy, angry, annoyed, and irritated because she doesn’t believe this is fair.</strong> She thinks she should make more money than Susie. She asks, “Do I have a right to complain about this? Should I demand a raise?”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Does she? Should she? Here’s my answer:</span></strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“No, Mary, you don’t have a right to complain. You agreed to the pay you are getting and you are doing your job according the way your character and integrity dictate. The fact that you believe Susie is a slacker doesn’t mean a whole lot in terms of your compensation. Susie is the firm’s problem, not yours.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">"Demanding a raise is never a good idea. 'Demand' translates to 'ultimatum.' Be careful what you wish for and always be prepared to follow up with your ultimatum. Employers usually do not like 'demands' or being backed into a corner. If you say you will leave if you don't get a raise, be prepared to do just that."</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If Mary sincerely feels she deserves a raise because of her value, effort and performance she should meet with the appropriate person in her firm and make a logical, rational, and reasonable argument as to why she deserves more money. For example:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Has she met or exceeded her billable hour goals for every year she’s been with the firm? </span></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Is she the go to person for the firm’s technology issues? </span></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Has she drafted user manuals for the new software the firm recently purchased? </span></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Is she able to prepare a trial notebook with little or no input from her supervising attorney?</span></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>During this discussion, May should not bring up Susie and what she earns or what she does/does not do.</strong> The only relevant topic is Mary's worth and the value she brings to the firm. Mary may be able to get a bump in her salary, but only on her own merits. Complaining about a co-worker (I work harder than that lazy Susie!) should never enter the picture.</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-83479695080734071552015-02-25T11:58:00.001-05:002015-02-25T11:58:47.550-05:00Paralegal Profile: Jaye Koch, ACP<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: x-small;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Jaye Koch, ACP, </strong>is
a Senior Paralegal at the Virginia Beach Office of the Commonwealth’s
Attorney where she enjoys doing any type of research (especially legal)
and trial preparation.</span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"></span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Jaye
has a B.A. Political Science, from Virginia Wesleyan College 1982 and a
Paralegal Certificate, from Tidewater Community College, 1986. She
earned her NALA Certified Paralegal designation in 2004 and her
ACP-Trial Practice (NALA), in 2009.</span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">She
is a member of Tidewater Paralegal Association (TPA), Local Government
Paralegal Association (LGPA), Virginia Alliance of Paralegal
Associations (VAPA), Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA) and
National Association of Legal Assistants/Paralegals (NALA). She says the
greatest benefit of her professional association membership is
definitely networking, meeting paralegals in her specialty area as well
as other areas of practice, and many opportunities to earn CLE credits.</span></span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<span></span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong><img data-mce-src="https://www.mcssl.com/content/153421/BigstockPhoto/2014/Koch_Jaye_205x209.jpg" data-mce-style="float: left; margin: 5px;" height="209" src="https://www.mcssl.com/content/153421/BigstockPhoto/2014/Koch_Jaye_205x209.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 5px;" width="205" />1. What prompted you to choose a paralegal career?</strong>
I was entering my senior year of college and considering law school. </span></span></span><br />
<span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></span></span><br />
<span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">
The college guidance counselor told me about this “new” paralegal
profession, which peaked my interest even more when I became engaged to
my (first) husband. Then I started an internship in the Victim/Witness
Office of my current employer. That was it. I knew I wanted to be a
Paralegal!</span></span></span><br />
<span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span><br />
<span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>2. What has been the highlight of your career?</strong>
Earning the CP designation, passing the ACP-Trial Practice exam and
serving on the NALA Certifying Board; and guilty verdicts on any cases
that included me working in the courtroom with the prosecutor</span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>3. What do you see as hot trends in the paralegal industry?</strong> eDiscovery, courtroom technology and back to focusing on soft skills</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>4. Is there a quote that inspires you? </strong> I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>5. What was your first car?</strong> Rambler (we called it root beer because it had a tan top and a brown body)</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>6. What fad do you regret being a part of?</strong> Balloon pants! </span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>7. What advice would you give yourself if you met you as a first-year paralegal?</strong> Never stop learning, look for training opportunities</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>8. If you could not be a paralegal, what would be your dream job?</strong> Coordinating and leading mission teams</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>9. What makes you lose your patience?</strong> Rude people</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>10. Is there one thing in the world you wish you had the answer to?</strong> Curing cancer</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>11. What fad do you regret being a part of?</strong> Balloon pants</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>12. The riskiest thing I ever did was...</strong> Go zip lining in El Salvador (fun!), followed closely by taking a motorcycle class that didn’t go well</span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><strong>13. Is there a philosophy you live by?</strong> Be nice to people, you don’t know what is going on their worl<strong>d</strong><strong data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"></strong></span><strong></strong></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong></strong></span></span></span></span><br />
<span><span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Bonus Question: You've been given a chance to have dinner with anyone living or dead. Who is it? </strong>My Dad. He passed away in 2007.</span></span></span></span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-25285586007538227322015-02-23T16:55:00.001-05:002015-02-23T16:55:41.815-05:00Paralegals: 6 Steps to Happiness<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6vnBoM9vSYrowT5Ab7WNIH70XuSWvE_83x2a7rlD1oDYzq29WXsg1mfKlYHzAa_s9yssN2nw6eaR7MqtnOSzvroFk0bZD2V5KuJrO0nSQaFCUlPYtoUDgzGYF8zuZYGuEVUt3YTehMs/s1600/bigstock-Half-Full-Or-Half-Empty--large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6vnBoM9vSYrowT5Ab7WNIH70XuSWvE_83x2a7rlD1oDYzq29WXsg1mfKlYHzAa_s9yssN2nw6eaR7MqtnOSzvroFk0bZD2V5KuJrO0nSQaFCUlPYtoUDgzGYF8zuZYGuEVUt3YTehMs/s1600/bigstock-Half-Full-Or-Half-Empty--large.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>It’s time to do some soul searching.</b>
Do you see the glass as half empty? Are the majority of your posts on
Facebook negative? Do you hold a grudge forever when you think you’ve
been wronged? Are bad things always going to happen to you?</span><br />
</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;">If you answered "Yes" to those questions, you're probably not a happy paralegal. Do you want to be happy? Absolutely! But how?<b> </b></span><br />
<br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>A person can’t just decide to be happy.</b> So how are happy paralegals different from their miserable, pessimistic counterparts? <i>They take actions that add up to a happy, well-lived life.</i> </span><br />
<br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;">These seven actions make the difference:</span><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
<ol>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>Happy paralegals laugh often.</b>
Laughter generates positive emotions and sets the mood for your day. So
lighten up, relax, and laugh to enhance your mood, as well as that of
the people you associate with.<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"> <b>Happy paralegals F-O-C-U-S!</b>
Stop doing so many things at once. Happy paralegals can focus (not just
on work, but on their family and friends) for extended amounts of time.
When you multitask, your brain leaps from one unconnected thought to
another, piling stress on your shoulders. <br /><br />Log off Pinterest and quit
posting cute pet videos on Facebook. Happy paralegals understand that
not everything is important. Chinese philosopher Lin Yutang said,
“Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is a nobler art of
leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.”<br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>Happy paralegals don’t obsess over the small stuff.</b>
Happy paralegals take a take a long view of life and don’t obsess over
every short term setback or problem. Are you having a bad day? Tomorrow
will be better. You didnʼt win that election? Nobody will remember this
time next year – and you may even get another chance. You didn’t pass
the certification exam? Just try again. No one needs to know how many
times you tried...passing is the big news. <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>Happy paralegals engage in meaningful activities.</b>
Physical activity will reduce stress and boost your mood. There are
many other “meaningful activities” that will also help with happiness.
Time spent practicing yoga or meditation may work for you. For others,
religious activities will be important. Reading, writing, quilting,
knitting, scrapbooking, volunteering, etc. will give you a sense of calm.<br /><br /> </span></li>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>Happy paralegals develop positive relationships</b>.
Companionship and love create a sense of belonging that will enhance
your life. When you have compassion for the people in your life and know
you are cared for in return, you will be happy. Be sure you share
quality time with others and nurture your friendships – reconnect with
that friend you haven’t seen in years; plan a movie night; invite
friends for dinner. <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>Happy paralegals manage their expectations.</b>
Do you remember being terribly excited about an event (say a New Year’s
Eve party) and, once it was over, you were disappointed because it
didn’t live up to your expectations? Managing expectations is about
eliminating the gap between what you expect and what actually happens.
Focus on simply enjoying the moment. <br /><br />Managing expectations isn’t easy
but when you are realistic about what will probably happen, you will
save time, energy and disappointment should your expectations not be
met. Consider your expectations and determine what areas of your life are frustrating. Perhaps you should manage your expectations for those
areas.</span></li>
</ol>
</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: small;"><b>While you can’t decide to be happy, you can decide to engage in actions that will bring you happiness.</b>
Do your soul searching. Consider this list and decide what is missing
in your life. Then choose to take steps to fill that gap. <i>To quote
Mahatma Gandhi, “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and
what you do are in harmony.”</i></span></div>
=====================================<br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: x-small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: xx-small;">©
2015 Vicki Voisin, Inc. Do you want to use this article in your
newsletter, ezine or Web site? Feel f'ree to make your life easier and
do that! Just be sure to include the following blurb with it: </span><br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: x-small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<div data-mce-style="padding-left: 30px;" style="padding-left: 30px;">
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: x-small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: xx-small;">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.</span><br />
<br />
<span data-mce-style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: x-small;" style="font-family: trebuchet ms,geneva; font-size: xx-small;">More information is available at <a data-mce-href="http://www.paralegalmentor.com" href="http://www.paralegalmentor.com/">www.paralegalmentor.com</a> where subscribers receive Vicki's <i>151 Tips for Your Career Success.</i></span></div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-17732913359673485252015-02-20T16:45:00.000-05:002015-02-20T16:52:36.300-05:00Why Writing Skills are Necessary for Paralegals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChp478xF94Vr6YPbbsR7BRHfRVegokZz_9kZwRRWiG70VqeIJ87yaO0IMEjKeU7-lJXDNG1r0oRZbTzNHGO073VXesTxVGhi3QDki0MQ_7beeeOCbYvofoi2cmIM7acBaN0S-iD9YSgk/s1600/Virginia-Koerselman.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChp478xF94Vr6YPbbsR7BRHfRVegokZz_9kZwRRWiG70VqeIJ87yaO0IMEjKeU7-lJXDNG1r0oRZbTzNHGO073VXesTxVGhi3QDki0MQ_7beeeOCbYvofoi2cmIM7acBaN0S-iD9YSgk/s1600/Virginia-Koerselman.png" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Paralegals and paralegal students often have difficulty developing their writing skills</strong> to the level expected in the legal industry. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Legal professionals rely heavily on both verbal and written communication, so writing skills are essential for both lawyers, paralegals, and legal secretaries. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because the other employees in a law firm will not tolerate inadequate writing skills, all paralegals need to learn to write in a concise and precise manner with proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. But how do they acquire those skillw?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In this episode of <em><strong>The Paralegal Voice</strong></em>, I<strong> </strong>interview Virginia (Ginny) Koerselman Newman, attorney and paralegal educator, about the importance of proper legal writing for paralegals and how they can improve their skills. Ginny provided the following tips:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Start by writing down everything you can think of regarding the case then choose only the important facts later to adapt to a legal framework;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Take classes on structure, grammar, and punctuation;<br /> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Purchase "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White; and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Practice! Use a practice textbook, edit mistakes in a magazine, and keep a daily journal. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She concedes that learning to write is particularly difficult, especially since technology has made us complacent, but it is better to improve your ability now than struggle throughout your paralegal career. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ginny finishes the podcast with tips for demonstrating writing skills through a resume, cover letter, and a developed portfolio.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;"><a href="http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/paralegal-voice/2015/01/writing-skills-necessary-paralegals/">Follow this link to access this important free resource.</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><strong>Virginia Koerselman Newman</strong>, Esq. graduated from the Creighton University School of Law and practiced for many years in banking and commercial litigation in Omaha, Nebraska before she “attempted” to retire in South Carolina. Before Law School, she worked as a paralegal for a number of years and was the first CLA in the state of Nebraska. Koerselman Newman is a frequent speaker at seminars and workshops and has authored, co-authored, and edited several other paralegal texts, study guides, and instructor manuals. She teaches communications, legal research, estates, and legal analysis at NALA school for paralegals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Special thanks to our sponsors, <strong><a href="http://nala.org/">NALA</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://servenow.com/">Serve Now</a></strong></span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-67739793656753841872015-02-19T18:37:00.001-05:002015-02-27T16:54:02.185-05:00Paralegals: Minimize Interruptions for Increased Productivity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqcsiTfwqkXkLRe1ZtZ2MV4rrZfEUy3YWPXx5Mt0HhT-GQFiMo9iF4fMMe9h-piAzI6IzOGbhzCxupaMtoOv3o26AztzA9Mho_ZSFO4mL6q3tUy9tlPoOGWsDkmP5JzADWzTA_9HDQ8M/s1600/bigstock_Office_Interruption_193x174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqcsiTfwqkXkLRe1ZtZ2MV4rrZfEUy3YWPXx5Mt0HhT-GQFiMo9iF4fMMe9h-piAzI6IzOGbhzCxupaMtoOv3o26AztzA9Mho_ZSFO4mL6q3tUy9tlPoOGWsDkmP5JzADWzTA_9HDQ8M/s1600/bigstock_Office_Interruption_193x174.jpg" height="180" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>How can you get your work done if you have constant interruptions? </strong>You can't and it's very frustrating!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If you don’t take steps to minimize those pesky interruptions, your time will be wasted and your productivity will suffer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Studies show that the average worker is interrupted every eight minutes. The same studies reveal that 15% of the interruptions are important, while the remaining 85% are a waste of time.Telephone calls and e-mail are major culprits, but even worse are the two-legged interrupters: <em>your co-workers</em>. <br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Here are five tips to minimize those <em>two-legged interruptions</em> and keep you in the productivity fast lane:</strong> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><br />1. Stand up when someone enters your workspace</strong>….or when they’ve over-stayed their welcome. When you stand, you send a message that the meeting will either be brief or that it has ended. This works every time. You start moving, they start moving…end of interruption. </span><br />
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>2. Never ask “How are you?”</strong> when someone stops by your office. This is an open invitation to chat. Do you really want to hear about their gallbladder surgery? <em>Instead, ask “What can I do for you?”</em> This will get you right to the point of the interruption. </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>3. A bit of creative workspace re-organization goes a long way.</strong> If your desk faces the door, turn it so you don’t look right into the hallway at everyone who passes. Once they make eye contact, they always stop to chat. Can you remove your chairs? If not, stack some files on them so the office pest (IE time waster) can’t take root for a half hour of blah blah blah. Last, NEVER have a bowl of candy on your desk. Who can resist a handful of M&M’s…and a little conversation to go along with them? </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>4. If you’re asked to answer a ‘quick question' or someone wants ‘just a minute’ of your time, beware! </strong>Your first question should be, “How much time do you need?” If you have the time available, go for it and hold them to the deadline. If you don’t have a spare fifteen minutes, schedule an appointment with them later. </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Rehearse a few lines like: “I’m sorry but I need to finish this deposition summary in the next hour. Can we talk later?” or “Attorney X is waiting for this research. I can spend some time with you at 2:00 this afternoon.” If you use lines like these, you’ve turned the tables and you’re now meeting on your own terms. </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>5. Urge co-workers to accumulate their questions. </strong>They should save all but urgent issues to discuss with you in one chunk of time. It’s much more productive to spend twenty minutes discussing five client matters than it is to talk about one client matter for ten minutes every hour. </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>BONUS TIP: Don’t interrupt yourself!</strong> Determine the time of day you are most productive (early morning? mid-afternoon?) and make yourself unavailable to the world during that time every day. Shut your door. Turn off anything that might be noisy or distracting. Stock your desk with all the supplies you need to eliminate unnecessary trips to the supply room. Practice what you preach: gather your questions and assignments and interrupt your co-workers only once. </span></div>
<div class="entry-content">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Your challenge:</strong> Make a short list of the interruptions you <em>will</em> allow. For all the rest, decide which of today’s tips you can implement to minimize them. Once that decision is made, take the necessary steps to curb those interruptions and you’ll find yourself on your way to a more productive day. <br /><br />=========================> <br /><strong>©2015 Vicki Voisin, Inc. </strong>Do you want to use this article in your newsletter, ezine or Web site? You can so long as you include this entire blurb with it: Vicki Voisin, “The Paralegal Mentor”, delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satisfaction by achieving 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 publishes a weekly ezine titled <em>Paralegal Strategies</em> and hosts <em>The Paralegal Voice</em>, a monthly podcast produced by </span><a data-mce-href="http://legaltalknetwork.com" href="http://legaltalknetwork.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Legal Talk Network</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">. More information is available at </span><a data-mce-href="http://paralegalmentor.com/" href="http://paralegalmentor.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">http://www.paralegalmentor.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> where new subscribers receive Vicki's "!51 Tips for Career Success."</span></div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-89834448420911238182015-02-18T16:00:00.000-05:002015-02-18T16:00:20.025-05:00The Paralegal Voice: Attorney Lin Wood Representing High-Profile Clients<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong>John and Patsy Ramsey</strong>, <strong>Richard Jewell</strong>, and <strong>Gary Condit</strong> are names everyone has heard because they were all on trial in the <em>court of public opinion</em>. <br />
<br />
While none of these individuals were never arrested, the public judged them as if they were guilty and this was fueled by the media. <br />
<br />
They needed legal representation just to fight for their reputations so they turned to <strong>Atlanta Attorney L. Lin Wood</strong> known as an expert in First Amendment litigation and management of the media in high-profile cases. <br />
<br />
Mr. Wood is determined and passionate in his representation of his clients. He was referred to by newscaster Dan Rather as “the attorney for the damned.”<br />
<br />
Mr. Wood has developed a national reputation during his more than 36 years as a trial lawyer focusing on civil litigation, representing individuals and corporations as plaintiffs or defendants in tort and business cases involving claims of significant damage. More information and contact information for Mr. Wood can be found at <a href="http://www.whetriallaw.com/">www.whetriallaw.com</a>.<br />
<br />
On this episode of <strong>The Paralegal Voice</strong>, I interviewed Mr. Wood about the benefits and difficulties of representing high-profile individuals and how a paralegal can most effectively assist with this representation. We also discussed:<br />
<ul>
<li>How he protects his clients from the media;</li>
<li>How he controls media coverage;</li>
<li>The difference between libel and slander;</li>
<li>The paralegal's role in assisting with media coverage.</li>
</ul>
Special thanks to our sponsors. NALA (<a href="http://www.nala.org/">www.nala.org</a>), a professional association for paralegals providing continuing education and professional certification programs for paralegals. Also, visit <a href="http://servenow.com/">ServeNow.com</a> for a nationwide network of trusted, prescreened process servers. Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-36361931530480193352015-02-17T13:18:00.000-05:002015-02-17T13:18:42.596-05:00Paralegal Profile: Lori Stewart, PP, PLS<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Lori Stewart, PP, PLS,</strong> is a U.S. Patent Paralegal at Fish Richardson, PC in Washington, DC, where she specializes in patent prosecution. She has a B.A. in Fine Arts from CSU Bakersfield. She has also earned her NALS PLS and Certified PP.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwM7bsxuMAtVOfxNOqK4vbHvPaHeFCKYO9MfO0h2fPPn4giS5l0F-9S6KcJsvAhOGjVWCFrDSdsuAufNzSoE9dk2h5OZUxAoAMGwtk8-96SJplSaGEmq4YkvFjGnI-FB9Pkr4Pwbo9pA/s1600/Stewart+Lori+Lingo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwM7bsxuMAtVOfxNOqK4vbHvPaHeFCKYO9MfO0h2fPPn4giS5l0F-9S6KcJsvAhOGjVWCFrDSdsuAufNzSoE9dk2h5OZUxAoAMGwtk8-96SJplSaGEmq4YkvFjGnI-FB9Pkr4Pwbo9pA/s1600/Stewart+Lori+Lingo.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>1. What prompted you to choose a paralegal career?</strong> It kind of chose me. I was looking for a job back in 1990 and found one as a patent legal secretary at a law firm. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>2. What is your favorite part of your job?</strong> I like all the different things I do – document preparation, electronic filing, research, contacting the patent office, creating a relationship with our clients</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>3. What professional associations do you belong to?</strong> NALS</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>4. How has your membership benefited you?</strong> It has opened my eyes to the enormousness of the legal field; given me a passion to continue learning every year; and gotten me involved on all three levels: national, state and local. I have wonderful, lifelong friends I met through NALS that I would never have known otherwise.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>5. What do you see as hot trends in the paralegal industry?</strong> I see lots of articles about paralegals working under their own “shingle” these days – opening their own shops without benefit of an attorney. This intrigues me and scares me at the same time – the unauthorized practice of law comes to mind as something that scares me!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>6. If someone contemplating a paralegal career asked you for career advice, what would your answer be? </strong> Being a paralegal is a very rewarding career, but it is very demanding. You need to be able to think and react quickly, multi-task, and deal with all types of people. You need to devote yourself to it – it is a career, not just a job. Once you find the right firm, it will be a great career.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>7. You've enjoyed a successful paralegal career. To what single event or person do you attribute that success?</strong> Becoming certified kickstarted me into this career – before that, it was just a job.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>8. What is the most important step a paralegal can take to keep his or her career interesting?</strong> Keep learning. Go to the seminars that NALS or other associations offer to find out what is happening in the legal world.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>9. What’s your favorite vacation getaway?</strong> The Beach</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>10. If you could not be a paralegal, what would be your dream job?</strong> Something in the arts</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>11. What college classes did you love?</strong> Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and Choir</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>12. You've been given the chance to have dinner with anyone living or dead. Who is it?</strong> Mandy Patinkin – I have a HUGE crush on him!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>13. What fad do you regret being a part of?</strong> Disco!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Bonus Question: Is there a philosophy you live by?</strong> The Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you</span></div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-39866231865828245472015-02-16T14:23:00.000-05:002015-02-16T14:23:02.035-05:00The Paralegal Voice: How to Revitalize Your Career<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<strong></strong><br />
<strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
</strong><strong>Are you bored with your job?</strong> Are you questioning your choice to work as a paralegal? Are you considering changing positions or leaving the profession altogether? You may be experiencing burnout!<br />
<br />
<strong>What should you do?</strong> Instead of taking drastic actions, you should first explore ways to revitalize your paralegal career. In this episode of <em>The Paralegal Voice</em>, I spoke with Patti Infanti, managing editor of <em>Paralegal Today</em> Magazine, about the many different steps a paralegal can take to build confidence, increase experience, and simply enjoy his/her job more. <br />
<br />
To learn more about how you can vitalize your career follow this link to <strong>Legal Talk Network</strong> to access this free resource: <a href="http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/paralegal-voice/2014/12/revitalize-paralegal-career/">http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/paralegal-voice/2014/12/revitalize-paralegal-career/</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzvsafxdl7vMZbzhm1arVHIHsApzmYZZqnNHyQF7YgJIjpeKIGax5_Au9Jjt8OFRYtzB-wEsfU4CdG9mh1ox28sO-PBLMx3i3U1qjEFP8vkA14yyeXYXcLzLJfjtBLuxCXxJLUMXP-EA/s1600/P_InfantiPresNewsmall.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzvsafxdl7vMZbzhm1arVHIHsApzmYZZqnNHyQF7YgJIjpeKIGax5_Au9Jjt8OFRYtzB-wEsfU4CdG9mh1ox28sO-PBLMx3i3U1qjEFP8vkA14yyeXYXcLzLJfjtBLuxCXxJLUMXP-EA/s1600/P_InfantiPresNewsmall.jpeg" /></a></div>
<strong>Patricia E. Infanti, PP, PLS</strong> is a member of The Association for Legal Professionals (NALS) and served as President from 2010 to 2011. A past president of both her local chapter and state association, she is currently serving as Parliamentarian of NALS of Pennsylvania and is the Website Chair of NALS of Philadelphia. She is also a member of NALS Leadership Identification Committee and the NALS Genius Bar. Infanti has been employed in the Corporate Real Estate department of Ballard Spahr LLP in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania since 1990.<br />
<br />
Special thanks to our sponsors, <a href="http://www.nala.org/">NALA</a> and <a href="http://servenow.com/">Serve Now</a>.Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-80398681957837354862015-02-04T16:14:00.001-05:002015-02-04T20:02:50.697-05:00Paralegal Profile: Jay Williams, TBLS<strong>Jay M. Williams, TBLS</strong>, is a Litigation Paralegal with Dallas law firm Miller Weisbrod, LLP. He specializes in Civil Litigation, Personal Injury, and Medical Malpractice. Jay is also a Board Certified Paralegal – Civil Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
~~~~~~~~~~~~</div>
<strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnTHhY6QsVd1DCg9VMwqyrROxPNsRkCuVx_gxWJl7z1lKP64X4vW7_aki94IGBcKTrsVYAO_0IXw53FXSOhyphenhyphen3jTKjb37HZd8w_kfrsumpjH-NKGkzmf7q5aMn4NJ1ITCIQ8_Qts0Yagg/s1600/Williams,+Jay+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOnTHhY6QsVd1DCg9VMwqyrROxPNsRkCuVx_gxWJl7z1lKP64X4vW7_aki94IGBcKTrsVYAO_0IXw53FXSOhyphenhyphen3jTKjb37HZd8w_kfrsumpjH-NKGkzmf7q5aMn4NJ1ITCIQ8_Qts0Yagg/s1600/Williams,+Jay+2014.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong>1. What prompted you to choose a paralegal career?</strong> I was in an accounting class in college, and the instructor told us that (at that time) the hottest job market would not be accounting, but the paralegal industry. I checked it out, spoke with a couple of friends who were legal secretaries at the time and they said I would be a great fit for the legal profession.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. What is your favorite part of your job?</strong> Communicating with my clients to better understand their situation. I also enjoy the interaction with my co-workers, professional colleagues on both sides of the case, and ironically, communicating with court personnel.<br />
<br />
<strong>3. What professional associations do you belong to?</strong> Dallas Area Paralegal Association (Past President, 2008), Paralegal Division – State Bar of Texas (current District 2 Director), National Federation of Paralegal Associations.<br />
<br />
<strong>4. How has your membership benefited you? </strong> The amount of CLEs available to paralegals is nothing short of amazing. I’m blessed that my boss and my firm are very encouraging of my attending CLEs as I bring back valuable information to share with my co-workers. And my association involvement helps to market my firm to the possibility of new cases.<br />
<br />
<strong>5. What has been the highlight of your career?</strong> I have to list two highlights: first, gaining the respect of my peers to serve as DAPA President in 2008. To me there is nothing that spells success more than gaining the support of your peers no matter what your profession. Second, working with the president (and good friend) of another local paralegal association to create an all-day CLE event for Dallas paralegals. Unbeknownst to me, the planning and event evolved into an article published in Legal Assistant Today in January 2009. This has since evolved into an annual event known as “Diversity University.”<br />
<br />
<strong>6. What do you see as hot trends in the paralegal industry?</strong> Technology remains a hot trend. The constant changes require us to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to either working our cases, or determining the terms of a contract. Now with courts in Texas mandating electronic filing, technology is becoming more and more important in the way firms run their offices.<br />
<br />
<strong>7. If someone contemplating a paralegal career asked you for career advice, what would your answer be?</strong> After dancing the “Snoopy Happy Dance” for their decision, I would extol on the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for them. I also wouldn’t sugarcoat anything and tell them it requires hard and dedicated work on their part. But if they are willing to put forth the effort, they will be successful and I would do everything I could to aid in their success.<br />
<br />
<strong>8. You've enjoyed a successful paralegal career</strong>. To what single event or person do you attribute that success? Wow! Tough to narrow this to a single person or event. I owe my career success to many people: first my partner Ken who has seen me at both the high points and low points of my career; to Allen Mihecoby and Lou Bugarin who introduced me to the values of being a leader in a paralegal association; and finally to colleagues such as Allen Mihecoby, Michele Boerder, Cynthia Minchillo, Wendi Rogers, and Kristine Farmer who in each of their own individual styles, continue to inspire me as a paralegal and to continue to strive for success.<br />
<br />
<strong>9. What is the most important step a paralegal can take to keep his or her career interesting?</strong> Education. I firmly believe educating oneself is the best way a paralegal can keep their career challenging and interesting at the same time. I always take something from a CLE event to try and instill in my daily work. And since CLEs are usually through a professional organization, networking within that organization runs a close second. Having the personal contact with your peers can open many doors of opportunities for paralegals.<br />
<br />
<strong>10. What sports team are you passionate about?</strong> Texas Rangers.<br />
<br />
<strong>11. What was your first car? </strong>A 1947 Willys Jeep. Admittedly I wasn’t thrilled about it until I started driving it to school. Then it was fun.<br />
<br />
<strong>12. If you could not be a paralegal, what would be your dream job?</strong> Singer. What is your favorite kind of music? I grew up listening to all kinds of music, but since I country music would have to be my favorite since I perform it most.<br />
<br />
<strong>13. You've been given the chance to have dinner with anyone living or dead. Who is it?</strong> My Mom. So many things have happened in the year and a half since she passed that I’d love to talk with her about. I miss her every day.<br />
<br />
<strong>Bonus Question: What’s your most treasured possession or keepsake? </strong>The U.S. flag given to my family at my Father’s memorial service; my rings for bowling a perfect 300 game (I have two rings – so far); the picture of me and Ken taken on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco where we “officially” became life partners in 2003).Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-17148401136125738672015-02-02T14:06:00.001-05:002015-02-02T14:08:31.715-05:00Career Planning for the New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ED_9sKTORpTdOyhkW2jmcx8vljaf0Em64zicOnICP1wpT60o0xiNgC75N7p7rLnzIQzuFuu8olAE-155iUU2S7uHU_Ibsi-GXV3R-6xA_Z_cNaPJaRYezj3oC4zc_2IGvz4PB8xUl7g/s1600/bigstock-Set-Goals-Hand-Red-Marker-450x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ED_9sKTORpTdOyhkW2jmcx8vljaf0Em64zicOnICP1wpT60o0xiNgC75N7p7rLnzIQzuFuu8olAE-155iUU2S7uHU_Ibsi-GXV3R-6xA_Z_cNaPJaRYezj3oC4zc_2IGvz4PB8xUl7g/s1600/bigstock-Set-Goals-Hand-Red-Marker-450x300.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong>The New Year signifies a time to turn a new leaf, to make changes for the better in the months ahead.</strong> It’s a time to make those New Year’s resolutions.<br />
<br />
Most resolutions focus on personal improvement: eat less, lose weight, start an exercise program, sleep more, etc.<br />
<br />
While personal improvement is a great goal, the New Year is a perfect time to look at your career and set some career goals for the next 12 months. This time of self-reflection and evaluation should result in stepped up efforts to move your career forward. <br />
<br />
When you set your career goals for this year, first pay attention to hiring trends. For this article, I am including information from the 2015 Salary Guide for the Legal Field published by Robert Half Legal (<a href="http://www.roberthalf.com/legal/lawyer-salary-center">http://www.roberthalf.com/legal/lawyer-salary-center</a>)<br />
<br />
According to this survey, hiring in the legal field continues to accelerate, with law offices competing for specialized training in lucrative practice areas, including corporate and general business, compliance, litigation, intellectual property, and real estate law.<br />
<br />
It’s not just law firms that will be hiring. This survey projected that corporate legal departments will be expanding internal teams to handle more legal matters in-house and also to control spending on outside counsel.<br />
<br />
<strong>What skills and expertise are in demand for paralegals/legal assistants?</strong> The survey says:<br />
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Law firms want paralegals</strong> who can perform multiple job functions and deliver quality results at cost-effective billing rates for clients. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Companies would like paralegals</strong> with experience in compliance, contract and lease administration, and eDiscovery to support corporate transactions and litigation matters. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Insurance and financial services companies, real estate firms, and healthcare organizations</strong> are among the many businesses looking to capitalize on the varied skills of legal assistants.</blockquote>
</div>
<strong>The survey also reports that employers’ requirements are seeking applicants who possess:</strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>A four-year degree and a certificate of completion</strong> from an American Bar Association-approved paralegal education program. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Advanced technical skills</strong> with experience with Microsoft Office, and also litigation support, billing and case management software — such as Summation, Relativity, TrialDirector and Time Matters – plus the ability to learn other legal software platforms.</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>The terms “hybrid” or “blended”</strong> paralegal/legal secretary roles are growing in popularity as entities continue to overhaul legal support structures and consolidate positions. </blockquote>
<strong>The survey states that in-demand practice areas and positions include:</strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Litigation</strong>. An increase in litigation is fueling demand for skilled litigation experts from document reviewers to nurse paralegals and trial lawyers — at many law firms. Legal specialists with backgrounds in insurance defense, medical malpractice, commercial litigation and employment law are in greatest demand. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong> General Business and Corporate Law.</strong> Legal professionals are needed to support commercial transactions related to renewed business activity. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Compliance.</strong> This area is also is a high-demand specialty due to federal mandates, such as the Dodd-Frank Act, and various state regulations. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Healthcare.</strong> A tremendous amount of legal work is stemming from compliance activities connected to the Affordable Care Act. Medical providers, insurance companies and government agencies are among the many organizations seeking paralegals with knowledge of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.\ </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Intellectual Property.</strong> Protecting intellectual property is a priority for all companies, and the need is especially pronounced in the biotechnology and high-tech sectors. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Real Estate</strong>. As the economy continues to improve, the commercial and residential real estate markets are rebounding in many areas of the country. Companies and law firms are seeking legal support professionals who can provide legal services related to commercial development, residential sales, property management and leasing.</blockquote>
<strong>As you consider your career goals for 2015,</strong> the information in this survey will be helpful. There are exciting times ahead for paralegals but you may need to sharpen your skills with additional education and training to move ahead. This isn’t unusual for any profession.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIPWCQ8uRHyCEGuduIKjmHF139lkBvOm38DUFSJquV_4gEdAbQ7SOGy0jmIj6OjpmYejyv77AdU76AQAL1xlLp8S47JWZRDt1RAqk4iZhZFHuJKPOmjCokoheIwLWZfqiKLcS1SHTbig/s1600/bigstock-set-goal-make-plan-work-sti-204x146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIPWCQ8uRHyCEGuduIKjmHF139lkBvOm38DUFSJquV_4gEdAbQ7SOGy0jmIj6OjpmYejyv77AdU76AQAL1xlLp8S47JWZRDt1RAqk4iZhZFHuJKPOmjCokoheIwLWZfqiKLcS1SHTbig/s1600/bigstock-set-goal-make-plan-work-sti-204x146.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong>Your career goals will require planning.</strong> Setting your big goal (i.e. “I want to work in contract administration.”) is just the beginning. <br />
<br />
That big goal should then be reduced to the steps you need to take to make it happen and plan when you will complete the steps. Any goal is doable – you just have to plan what you have to do to reach the goal and then actually do the hard work it takes to build any career.<br />
<br />To help you reach your goals, I have prepared a new resource for you: <strong>2015 Strategic Career Planning: The Paralegal Mentor’s Guide to Setting Goals for Career Success.</strong> This guide is available at no cost. Just follow this link to download your copy: <a href="http://paralegalmentor.com/career-planning-guide">http://paralegalmentor.com/career-planning-guide</a><br />
<br />
Best wishes for much success in the year ahead!Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-89039135745208392582014-05-22T19:29:00.000-04:002014-05-22T19:29:47.693-04:00Biz Buddies #19: Talking about Printers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_sKa_U9VHI4bvXaJ5Z6zE_oHNEcc-g5gbW5HF8pl_aT_YS4vAGmsj4UmgNOWhbkxUtvicx2qFJWCm-BOMhbBU24B-FU9SaLqv5MTEf2wBjAi_VV_ZHlCYB7tP19zQbWP_toD3e5rjHU/s1600/Biz+Buddies.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_sKa_U9VHI4bvXaJ5Z6zE_oHNEcc-g5gbW5HF8pl_aT_YS4vAGmsj4UmgNOWhbkxUtvicx2qFJWCm-BOMhbBU24B-FU9SaLqv5MTEf2wBjAi_VV_ZHlCYB7tP19zQbWP_toD3e5rjHU/s1600/Biz+Buddies.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In this episode, Tina Marie Hilton of Clerical Advantage joins me to talk about office printers, including:</span><br />
<ul><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Laser vs Ink Jet?</span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Repair or Replace?</span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Do you need a printer?</span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Printer alternatives – eg services like Staples and FedEx Office</span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What do we have for printers?</span></li>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Page URL:</span><a href="http://tobtr.com/s/6446459" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">http://tobtr.com/s/6446459</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">iTunes Link: </span><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></blockquote>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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 </span><a href="mailto:bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com.</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals on iTunes.</span> </div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-79868938916796553592014-05-16T11:17:00.001-04:002014-05-16T11:17:49.087-04:00NALA Receives Accreditation of the Certified Paralegal Program The NCCA has accredited the NALA Certified Paralegal certification program for a five-year period, expiring April 30, 2019.<br />
<br />
Founded in 1975, NALA is a professional association providing continuing education and professional certification to paralegals. Currently, over 8,900 paralegals may use the Certified Paralegal (CP) designation. The CP credential has been awarded to over 17,822 paralegals in its span of almost 40 years. The Certified Paralegal (CP) program is the first certification program accredited by NCCA which serves the legal community.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJub58hAnKvhgJZrZiWMArb_KiEuIHuAzS2T9Z_DmWkcjzOx9dcX766nuEZeN-laMp3x5aqHkfn0urOdxNWk2rFyvx6WE_qopomtyE8RDbRRrhwVvNLzF-BV8YrfU3FpDIUKOm8hUbBhs/s1600/bigstock-Accredited-207x153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJub58hAnKvhgJZrZiWMArb_KiEuIHuAzS2T9Z_DmWkcjzOx9dcX766nuEZeN-laMp3x5aqHkfn0urOdxNWk2rFyvx6WE_qopomtyE8RDbRRrhwVvNLzF-BV8YrfU3FpDIUKOm8hUbBhs/s1600/bigstock-Accredited-207x153.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">NALA has received accreditation of the Certified Paralegal program from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">NALA received NCCA accreditation of the Certified Paralegal program by submitting an application demonstrating the program's compliance with standards outlined in NCCA's Standards for the Accreditation of Certification Programs. NCCA is the accrediting body of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE). Since 1987, the NCCA has been accrediting certifying programs based on the highest quality standards in professional certification to ensure the programs adhere to modern standards of practice in the certification industry.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The NCCA standards require demonstration of a valid and reliable process for development, implementation, maintenance, and governance of certification programs. NCCA uses a rigorous peer review process to establish accreditation standards;evaluate compliance with the standards;recognize organizations/programs which demonstrate compliance; and serve as a resource on quality certification. The NCCA Standards are comprehensive and cover all aspects of the certification program, including administration, assessment development and recertification.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">NCCA standards are consistent with The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing (AERA,APA, & NCME, 1999) and are applicable to all professions and industries.To maintain<br />accreditation, organizations are required to submit annual reports to NCCA and must undergo a reaccreditation every five years.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Accreditation provides third party oversight of an assessment system. It provides a mechanism for associations to demonstrate to the profession it represents,and the general public it serves,that its credentialing program has been reviewed by a panel of impartial experts that have determined that the program has met the stringent standards set by the credentialing community .Accreditation by NCCA provides organizations a way to answer the question, "who reviewed your certificate or certification program?", a question often posed by members of an occupation, employers, and somet imes,the courts.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There are more than 270 NCCA-accredited programs that certify individuals in a wide range of professions and occupations including nurses, financial professionals,respiratory therapists,counselors, and emergency technicians,and more. ICE's mission is to advance credentialing through education, standards, research, and advocacy to ensure competence across professions and occupations. NCCA was founded as a commission whose mission is to help ensure the health,welfare, and safety of the public through the accreditation of a variety of certification programs that assess professional competence.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">ICE and NCCA are located at 2025 M Street, N.W., Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036-3309; telephone 202/367-1165; facsimile 202/367-2165; website </span><a href="http://www.credentialingexcellence.org/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">www.credentialingexcellence.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-21175837897229150772014-05-16T07:47:00.000-04:002014-05-16T07:47:13.647-04:002014-25 NALS Board of Directors Consolidated to Five Legal Professionals <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuVyFULE_1xiRY5G-WKhyumt3KzsVS5y0cYxKx5NsTwdDtsUeHboKutlKehwEmPQ95AlKs7bwniOBKjNpq4uY-ydrY_pvgBPUtOJW_T1OMVzftrskbKymrSBFpYtLuWoGFitKPKcxs2c/s1600/bigstock-Education-concept-Knowledge-I-52984675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuVyFULE_1xiRY5G-WKhyumt3KzsVS5y0cYxKx5NsTwdDtsUeHboKutlKehwEmPQ95AlKs7bwniOBKjNpq4uY-ydrY_pvgBPUtOJW_T1OMVzftrskbKymrSBFpYtLuWoGFitKPKcxs2c/s1600/bigstock-Education-concept-Knowledge-I-52984675.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong>When the newly announced five-member national board </strong>officially took office in March 2014 at the NALS Professional Development & Educational Conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I could say I know each of them personally and communicate with them often. It's comforting to know that an important national association is in such capable hands.<br />
<br />
How well do you know the NALS directors? Perhaps you haven't had an opportunity to meet them personally but there are opportunities to become better acquainted <em>virtually</em>. Each director has a Facebook page and welcomes new "friends." Also, NALS has posted YouTube videos so you can watch the directors in action. You can follow these links to the videos: <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuC-oXTwZFg&feature=youtu.be">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KuC-oXTwZFg&feature=youtu.be</a> and</blockquote>
</div>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkITtFIDKM4">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkITtFIDKM4</a> </blockquote>
</blockquote>
The 2014-2015 NALS Board consists of <strong>Tina Boone, PLS</strong>, <strong>Mimi Mangrum</strong>, <strong>Carl Morrison, PP-SC</strong>, <strong>AACP Audrey Saxton, PP, PLS</strong>, and President, <strong>Karen McElroy, PP, PLS</strong>.This board marks a significant governance restructure, and the consolidation intends to mark great growth and collaboration on a national platform. <br />
<br />
<strong>The 2014-2015 board celebrates vast diversity by way of age, region and office environments.</strong> Each board member possesses specific skills to lead NALS into the future.<br />
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Karen McElroy, PP, PLS, President</strong> — Ms. McElroy is a paralegal at DiMuroGinsberg, PC in Alexandria, Virginia. She began her legal career in Columbus, Ohio while attending The Ohio State University. Karen joined NALS in 2002 in Phoenix, Arizona, received the NALS of Arizona Award of Excellence in 2005, and the NALS National Award of Excellence in 2009, the most prestigious member award. Karen is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and brings her knowledge and experience of strategic planning, and her vision for the future of NALS to all legal professionals.</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Tina L. Boone, PLS, Secretary</strong> — Ms. Boone is a legal assistant with Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis, LLP in Nashville, Tennessee. Boone brings along notable leadership and fundraising skills. She and her ATHENA team helped raise over $100,000 in scholarships and sponsorships during her reign as the 2013 chair of her local ATHENA Award Program. With prior board experience, she envisions great growth within the NALS' membership, striving to grow membership by ensuring each state will have at least one thriving local chapter.</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Mimi Mangrum, NALS Director</strong> — Ms. Mangrum is Operations Manager and Paralegal to Kevin J. Orr, of Orr Willhite, PLC in Jonesboro, Arkansas. She envisions NALS as an association focusing on trending topics, providing additional and more interactive hands-on programs, and showing off the diversity of its membership. One of Mimi’s ideas for creating a better and brighter NALS of the future is to create a task force that would visit with chapters across the country and provide assessment and advice regarding leadership, communication, fundraising, certifications, and any other challenges local chapters may be facing. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Carl Morrison, PP-SC, AACP, NALS Director</strong> — In addition to his service on the national board for NALS, Mr. Morrison serves as president of NALS of Oklahoma, chairs the Paralegal/Legal Assistant Section of the Tulsa County Bar Association, and is an active member of the Tulsa Area Paralegal Association. Last year, Tulsa Business & Legal News named him to its 2013 class of Power Attorneys & Legal Professionals, and was named the 2013 Paralegal of the Year by Avansic and the Tulsa County Bar Association. Mr. Morrison is a visionary leader with a keen interest in the legal profession and the impact recent and foreseeable changes have on the growth and evolution of NALS. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong>Audrey Saxton, PP, PLS, NALS Director</strong> — Ms. Saxton is a skilled and visionary technologist with obvious relationship building skills. She works as a Judicial Assistant for the Hon. Brenden J. Griffin of the Pima County Superior Court in Tucson, Arizona. Her past fundraising successes and technological savvy complement her goal to bring NALS into the next generation with the introduction of cutting edge technology, mobile applications, and interactive learning tools to benefit the world.</blockquote>
</div>
<br />
About NALS: NALS, Inc. is a tri level § 501(c)(6) association for legal professionals. NALS is dedicated to enhancing the competencies and contributions of members in the legal services profession. More information about NALS can be found at <a href="http://www.nals.org/">www.nals.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Belonging to a professional association -- and which one is your personal choice -- is an important component of your career. The success of that association is determined by your input and your vote. To be an informed voter, you need to make a concerted effort to know your board and to communicate with them. How well do you know the members of your association's board?Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-50483647898246791462014-05-15T19:07:00.001-04:002014-05-15T19:07:39.827-04:00Paralegals: What If Your Client Claims Innocence?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LP-fy_0tZFaVAFJe98E5sdt9VhmkOzOU5WEBchKVx1eMxnp6ogZ8oLfJGkGPDKLK7aYd-5-3PUsEA3EEKc5XK34GEGb8VcKqioauKRBvAo1ewOzyZ5HQzSrSinhqoD6jGlN7S7Zp_Y/s1600/paralegal-voice-200x200.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Despite US notions of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,</strong> many innocent people have been sent to prison for lengthy to life sentences. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Common reasons for these wrongful convictions are faulty eyewitness accounts, use of “junk” science as evidence, and informants with conflicts of interest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">On this episode of <em>The Paralegal Voice</em>, I interview <strong>Professor Marla Mitchell-Cichon</strong> from the Cooley Innocence Project at the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. We discuss the Innocence Project and the Post Conviction DNA Testing Statutes that opened the door for exoneration of the innocent around the country. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">We also discover how the convicted innocent have less help than guilty parolees upon their release. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Tune in to learn more about coerced confessions, bad actors who cause false convictions, and what remedies the wrongfully convicted have.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Professor Marla Mitchell-Cichon</strong> began her teaching career in 1986, following service as a public defender. Her clinical teaching includes post-conviction, criminal defense, general civil practice, elder law and externship. Professor Mitchell began teaching in Cooley’s Innocence Project in 2002. She serves as the project’s co-director. In 2006, Professor Mitchell received the Justice For All award from the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan for her Innocence Project work. Professor Mitchell’s litigation experience includes practicing before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, the Ohio Supreme Court, and trial and appellate courts in Ohio and Michigan. Professor Mitchell’s publications are in the areas of criminal law, elder law, ethics, and clinical teaching.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Special thanks to our sponsors, <a href="http://nala.org/">NALA</a> and <a href="http://servenow.com/">ServeNow</a>.</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-34714275798362235202014-03-07T16:14:00.003-05:002014-03-07T16:14:46.946-05:00Biz Buddies Episode 17: Leveraging Special Promotions to Increase Your Income<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-tOI7hmkQodKoNWO3l5mB3eX-E8Pu_g2hV5IYUpJZPA1EEvVz1ZgaVUfU4GCVhm2dAoEJ5w-WxfquACHjB47PBiVzJJcb6i3ZTKxm-JqdIp5XnRMHE6QJYFnh4RU70UsPMypMQ42Tgk/s1600/Biz+Buddies.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-tOI7hmkQodKoNWO3l5mB3eX-E8Pu_g2hV5IYUpJZPA1EEvVz1ZgaVUfU4GCVhm2dAoEJ5w-WxfquACHjB47PBiVzJJcb6i3ZTKxm-JqdIp5XnRMHE6QJYFnh4RU70UsPMypMQ42Tgk/s1600/Biz+Buddies.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />In this episode of <em>Biz Buddies for You</em>, </span><a href="http://paralegalmentor.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Vicki Voisin</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> and </span><a href="http://clericaladvantage.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Tina Hilton</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> discuss ways to promote your business -- and increase your income -- by taking advantage of holidays. We discuss thoughts on adapting promotions to both traditional and non-traditional holidays. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Vicki and Tina discuss:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The beauty of special promotions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Why you should tie your promotion to a holiday</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Ideas for holiday promotions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">How to locate holiday information</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Ideas for promotion offers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What you need to do to prepare for a special promotion</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And more! </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Be sure to listen to this episode. It’s easy…and it’s free! Just click on the following links: </span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Page URL: </span><a href="http://tobtr.com/s/6151741" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">http://tobtr.com/s/6151741</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">iTunes Link: </span><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/biz-buddies-4-virtual-professionals/id541315755?mt=2&ign-mpt=uo%3D4</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></blockquote>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Our next episode: Tips for Getting the Help You Need</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Please share the links to this episode of Biz Buddies for Virtual Professionals with your friends and colleagues. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If you have a request for a future show, or a question for us, you are welcome to contact us at </span><a href="mailto:bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">bizbuddies@vasurvivalschool.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> . </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Also, be sure you never miss a podcast by subscribing to Biz Buddies 4 Virtual Professionals on iTunes.</span> </div>
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-10185457732163609562014-02-28T14:29:00.000-05:002014-02-28T14:29:07.144-05:00The Apostrophe Fail<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The Apostrophe Fail</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">By Kathy Sieckman, PP, PLS, ACP</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJAfi7f8SBRa-i4iI3O8PVdIltaISE6PU944HJ2DAGayLymkZ_zhAAT8kqzaIf7pkfRqXFewlwcxyEykQmMPTQC_YO8gdJO5OuYmiYhrWK-HCPZUsSvKiVSJ_KFY2SPmDNq1U0H-fI_Q/s1600/bigstock-Grammar--Sign-208x139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJAfi7f8SBRa-i4iI3O8PVdIltaISE6PU944HJ2DAGayLymkZ_zhAAT8kqzaIf7pkfRqXFewlwcxyEykQmMPTQC_YO8gdJO5OuYmiYhrWK-HCPZUsSvKiVSJ_KFY2SPmDNq1U0H-fI_Q/s1600/bigstock-Grammar--Sign-208x139.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>I think the number one all time grammar fail is the apostrophe.</strong> It is not a punctuation mark for making words plural (more than one of something). Instead, it is a mark to show possession (ownership of something) or to show where letters are missing in a contraction (such as "don't").</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There is a test that may make it a little easier to determine if something needs an apostrophe for possession:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Look for the possible possessive phrase:– the man['s] desk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Reverse the nouns: desk of the man</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Examine the base ownership word to determine who owns the thing (here "man").</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Most important, do not change the spelling of a singular noun just to make it possessive. For instance, the man (one man) is still the owner of the desk. Ownership doesn't magically make the desk belong to more than one man. It would be the "man's desk" not the "men's desk."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Does the base word showing ownership end with an "s" sound? If it does not, add an apostrophe and s: the man's desk. If it does, you usually add only an apostrophe: both boys' desks.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">UNLESS you actually hear the s sound when you say it, then you should add an apostrophe and s: Phoenix's traffic or Waitress's tables. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">That is a really important "unless" and one that is controversial. Say it out loud if necessary. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Again, however, while it may be correct under one reference source, the person you are working for may not like it that way. Do what you need to do to stay employed.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Proper names are sometimes the most difficult. I once worked with someone with the last name "Andrews" and actually saw (with my own eyes) how people (and more than one) would try to make it possessive by adding the apostrophe before the s—Andrew's. <em>Never, ever change</em> the spelling of someone's name before you make it plural or possessive. Start with the name and then do what you need to do to it. Just remember that is one thing that is sacred to everyone—their own name.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Apostrophes really are not as difficult as they seem to be when you see how often they are used incorrectly. It is just something that takes thinking about to get right. Take the time to think about it and you are a step ahead of most people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">~~~~~~~~~~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">This article was contributed by Kathy Sieckman, PP, PLS, ACP. Kathy has worked in the legal field for over 30 years and developed an interest in grammar while studying for her first NALS certification exam. She honed that skill through lots of proofreading for her law firm employers. Kathy is involved in all levels of NALS . . . the association for legal professionals, works in the Phoenix office of Sacks, Ricketts & Case LLP, and has a proofreading blog at </span><a href="http://proofthatblog.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">http://proofthatblog.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">.</span> Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-33652324946333476222014-02-06T15:49:00.000-05:002014-02-06T15:49:43.507-05:00Paralegal Profile: Rebecca Garland, Traverse City, Michigan<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Rebecca Garland</strong> is the Executive Director of Conflict Resolution Services, Inc., in Traverse City, Michigan where she specializes in family law and alternative dispute resolution.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">She has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology/Criminal Justice and a Masters of Business Administration.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> ~~~~~~~~~~~~</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pBWuJyAokaMJD6KBo0tMPSLVfCgHbKocoK_jKSige-6Fvb0UoGunvr2CIDzfP2asFp6KQFvrezALx7uvfoDrImBPXFzmg5FSYYrufflid2Ph75et_B2P4xHWIpNzeU7q8I-QEXwfcW4/s1600/Garland_Rebecca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pBWuJyAokaMJD6KBo0tMPSLVfCgHbKocoK_jKSige-6Fvb0UoGunvr2CIDzfP2asFp6KQFvrezALx7uvfoDrImBPXFzmg5FSYYrufflid2Ph75et_B2P4xHWIpNzeU7q8I-QEXwfcW4/s1600/Garland_Rebecca.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>1. What prompted you to choose a paralegal career? </strong> When I started college, I thought I wanted to be a prison guard for the state of Michigan. One field trip to a prison took care of that notion!! I did an internship in the office of an assistant prosecutor and fell in love with the law and the work of a paralegal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>2. What is your favorite part of your job?</strong> As the Executive Director, I handle all of the case intake paperwork for an agency that provides mediation, arbitration, facilitation and training services. The favorite part of my job is when both parties involved in a mediation tell me there is no way they are going to agree on anything with the other party and then, after mediation is completed, finding out the parties worked out an agreement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>3. What professional associations do you belong to?</strong> I belong to the Grand Traverse Area Legal Professionals (GTALP); NALS of Michigan; and NALS, the association for legal professionals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>4. How has your memberships benefited you?</strong> Specifically as it relates to the GTALP, I have met so many wonderful individuals who were willing to share their wealth of knowledge regarding the legal system when I was starting out, tips on how to navigate the court system in my area and a listening ear when I was feeling frustrated because something wasn’t working out. I have become very close to many of my “sisters-in-law” and truly value those friendships.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>5. What has been the highlight of your career?</strong> The highlight of my career professionally was receiving the Liberty Bell award from the Grand Traverse-Leelanau-Antrim Bar Association in 2000. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Liberty Bell award recognizes a lay person who was instrumental in promoting better understanding of the rule of law, encouraging a greater respect for law and the courts, stimulating a sense of civic responsibility and contributing to good government in the community. I received the award as a result of my work with survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence at the Women’s Resource Center in Traverse City, MI.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The highlight of my career personally has been talking to individuals I assisted when I worked as the at the Women’s Resource Center and seeing how much they have achieved in their own lives after leaving abusive situations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>6. What do you see as hot trends in the paralegal industry?</strong> There are two “hot trends” in the paralegal industry. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The first is the “virtual paralegal”. Many attorneys, at least in my area, are starting to downsize their practices – no more big offices and several support staff. The reality is, though, they still need assistance on small and large projects – research, writing, organizing. Someone who is proficient in several document formats, electronic filing and so forth, who is self-motivated, works well with and without deadlines and (often) under pressure, will be able to market their services to those “downsized” attorneys and have all of the advantages of setting their own schedule, determining their pay and so forth. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The second is what I call the “non-traditional paralegal positions”. In my case, I started working in a law office – a traditional setting for a paralegal. But I really wanted to work with survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault as they navigated the criminal and civil justice systems. That was when the “non-traditional paralegal position” became known to me. It wasn’t where you would expect to find someone working as a paralegal but it was where individuals needed help understanding those systems. I am now working as an Executive Director and even though I am not doing a lot of “traditional” paralegal work, the knowledge and skills I learned working as a paralegal have transferred into the work I am doing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>7. If someone contemplating a paralegal career asked you for career advice, what would your answer be? </strong> My first answer would be, “go for it.” Working in the legal field can be so very, very rewarding. My second answer would be, “be willing to learn things you might not be particularly interested in or comfortable with because the more you know, the more marketable you will be.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>8. Is there a quote that inspires you?</strong> “If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him.” Mahatma Gandhi</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>9. You’ve enjoyed a successful paralegal career. To what single event or person do you attribute your success?</strong> Attorney Mark Risk. I worked for Mark for about one year. In that year, I learned more about the legal field than I thought possible. He gave me permission to try anything and provided me with direction when I needed it. But most of all, he gave me credit for my work to others when other people would have taken the credit themselves.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>10. What is the most important step a paralegal can take to keep his or her career interesting?</strong> Always be open to new experiences. This might mean being open to learning about something you have never done before (like drafting a pleading) or being open to working somewhere you might not have thought about (like an agency helping survivors of abuse or the homeless) or to an area of law you didn’t think you would like. The more flexible you are willing to be, the more things will open up to you and keep your career from becoming boring.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>11. What is your favorite kind of music?</strong> Old school country music (think Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Mel Tillis, Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, Sr. and so on).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>12. What was your first job?</strong> My first substantial job was planting and harvesting tomatoes on a farm in south-eastern Michigan. It was done with mechanical assistance but was still incredibly, incredibly dirty work!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>13. From American history, who is your hero? </strong> Laura Haviland. “Aunt” Laura, as she was known, lived in the town of Adrian, Michigan. She helped slaves navigate the Underground Railroad to Canada. She was the only white woman to have a bounty on her head – dead or alive – paid for by the slaveholders and slave traders. Her concern for orphans led to the opening of the Raisin Institute (eventually known as the “Adrian Training School”) and she insisted that it be open to all regardless of race, sex or creed. The school started with children from the county poorhouse so they could receive an education and learn a skilled trade to move them out of poverty. The education of blacks was forbidden in many states and the school was the first to teach blacks in Michigan.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Bonus Question: You’ve been given the chance to have dinner with anyone living or dead. Who is it?</strong> Aunt Laura Haviland – for all of the reasons she was my answer to #13!</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-61257721992855812922014-01-29T12:57:00.002-05:002014-01-29T13:00:53.347-05:00Paralegals Can Cook: Beef Stroganoff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-iIV8LAfrHCjAbfIrBNQDZdFCgAqsdb7ga8R-OB9YPmr06T-zHx4LwLH46wyZQWH6iA90_D2wlYiLyqsWrQCJdaQTLUhQ_F0P66v4qsWX7Q4Qbj1ir4e6HXzFiFS5Agb5l5E9fcN6pA/s1600/Recipes+McElroy+Text+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh-iIV8LAfrHCjAbfIrBNQDZdFCgAqsdb7ga8R-OB9YPmr06T-zHx4LwLH46wyZQWH6iA90_D2wlYiLyqsWrQCJdaQTLUhQ_F0P66v4qsWX7Q4Qbj1ir4e6HXzFiFS5Agb5l5E9fcN6pA/s1600/Recipes+McElroy+Text+2.jpg" height="320" width="260" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Karen Glenn McElroy, PP, PLS, NALS President Elect</strong> shared this recipe with <em>Paralegal Strategies</em> readers. Since it is made in a slow cooker, it is perfect for a day when you're too busy to cook or one of those cold winter days when you're craving comfort food. Thanks, Karen!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Karen Glenn McElroy's Beef Stroganoff</strong> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2 lbs. beef stew meat, cut into 1 inch cubes </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 can condensed (10-3/4 oz.) cream of mushroom soup, undiluted</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 can condensed (10-3/4 oz.) cream of celery soup, undiluted </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 medium onion, chopped </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 jar (6 oz.) slice mushrooms, drained </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 envelope onion soup mix </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">½ tsp. pepper </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 cup sour cream (8 oz.) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hot cooked noodles </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In a 1 quart slow cooker, combine the first seven ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until beef is tender. Stir in sour cream. Serve with noodles. Serves 6. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Note: Karen uses low sodium soup and low fat sour cream and it tastes great. Also, she use whole-wheat noodles.</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-10389645655823751342014-01-09T19:29:00.000-05:002014-01-09T19:29:32.673-05:00First-Year Paralegal: What Do You Wish You Would Have Known?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SsL38vbqA4ffFiK9rnZsirpN72QGp0AoutIjY_mdIOVOh04__Jn5myLEwPf20_x8wjn0RYk8_JCMTjwjrx3wSynkS-6_R5kPeI6h0E2YDmXtJU73Q4u36QPFLfsoKrd1jT7NK7r3ZOs/s1600/bigstock-Helpful-Tips-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SsL38vbqA4ffFiK9rnZsirpN72QGp0AoutIjY_mdIOVOh04__Jn5myLEwPf20_x8wjn0RYk8_JCMTjwjrx3wSynkS-6_R5kPeI6h0E2YDmXtJU73Q4u36QPFLfsoKrd1jT7NK7r3ZOs/s1600/bigstock-Helpful-Tips-.jpg" height="177" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>I asked this question on Facebook: What do you wish someone had told you when you were a first-year paralegal?</b> The response was phenomenal so I thought I'd share the great advice with you.<br />
<br />
While I'm not including names, the tips were provided by paralegals from all over the country who are in various stages of their careers. Here they are:<br />
<ul>
<li>Improve writing skills.</li>
<li>Ask good questions and take good notes so you don't have to ask the same questions over and over.</li>
<li>Write down EVERYTHING! Confirm EVERYTHING! What you understand may not be how your attorney wants something done.</li>
<li>That my job description was not a complete list of tasks.</li>
<li>You will make mistakes and mistakes can be corrected!</li>
<li>So many things:</li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1. Don't be afraid to ask questions - better to ask than to screw something up. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
2. Be friendly to EVERYONE in your office, and also to court personnel and others along your path. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
3. Don't get caught up in office politics. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
4. You will have to work with people who are lazy, stupid, scheming, ignorant and just plain mean. Be professional, help them if you can, and always take the high road. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
5. Learn how to operate every piece of equipment in the office. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
6. Compliment people - it works wonders. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
7. Join your local paralegal association, and join a committee. The friends you make will be your friends forever. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
9. If you know that your spelling and grammar skills need brushing up, do it. </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
10. If you trip over a heavy three-hole punch and break your little toe, file a worker's comp claim. Don't suffer in silence.</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<ul>
<li>That it's an AWESOME profession, but it is what you make of it. If you want to soar to new heights then be active, do all you can, and remember we are all professionals in the same boat. Grab an oar!</li>
<li>Though you may want to, understand that you can't do everything, so be realistic about the number of projects you can take on. And I wish I had not been told: Oh, honey, you're so green.</li>
<li>If your boss has some silly little thing that he or she wants you to do every day that you feel is beneath you (like, for example, sharpening their pencils) - it's a whole lot better in the long run to just do it rather than to raise a fuss. You will understand this in about 10 years.</li>
<li>Be curious.</li>
<li>No matter what the Rules of Court say, ALWAYS CALL THE CLERK of Court's office to avoid misinterpretation, especially the local rules ... some judges have many rules to follow outside the standard rules of court.</li>
<li>You never stop learning!</li>
<li>Never go to your attorney with a problem without having at least one solution.</li>
<li>Do your work instead of loitering on Facebook! Bye, y'all!</li>
<li>Be nice to the court personnel and, when you really need their help, they will.</li>
<li>That assisting your attorney in achieving positive results for the client would also provide far greater rewards for me - the satisfaction of helping others.</li>
<li>Take nothing personally.</li>
<li>You don't wait for work to be assigned. You take it and do it, even if you have to do it on your own time to prove what you can do. Ask the attorney for the case theory and theme & then think likr the opposite side.</li>
<li>Learn litigation instead of real estate transactional. There will always be litigation, but the real estate work can disappear.</li>
<li>Its a constant learning process and that you really need to be able to get along with everyone. And that at some point or another we've all been there.</li>
<li>How much I was going to enjoy it. Even after 40+ years.</li>
<li>That billing your time is an awful task, but other than that being a paralegal is a fantastically fulfilling and exciting career. I despise billable hours, so I went to work where that is not required! SO happy!!</li>
<li>You need to meet Vicki Voisin asap and not wait another year! : )</li>
<li>Billing - or wording of your billing. Insurance companies are sooooo particular!!!</li>
<li>Join NALA</li>
<li>Sit for the CP exam as soon as you can... wish I could do that one over.</li>
<li>I wish I would have been encouraged to sit for my certification exam sooner in my career. However, I am still so proud of my certification. And join a professional association like NALS, NALA, NFPA or any of the local associations. Networking is so important!</li>
<li>Join your local paralegal organization and NALA. The friendships and contacts you will make through these organizations will be a valuable part of your career. Also, find a mentor that you can talk to about your career path, and as you progress in your career mentor others.</li>
<li>Join your professional associations (local, state & national) for networking & to have a say in your profession & the advancement of your profession, obtain a mentor through your local association, always continue learning. </li>
<li>I wish someone had explained billing and that it was the attorney responsibility to determine whether I had spent too much time on a project.</li>
<li>Join a local paralegal association!</li>
</ul>
<b>What do you wish you would have known when you were a first-year paralegal?</b> Follow this link to The Paralegal Mentor Blog to leave your personal advice.Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-69786248487715205332013-12-16T16:14:00.000-05:002013-12-16T16:14:07.025-05:00The Paralegal Mentor's Awesome Almost-Famous Never-Fail Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOfMGJk4lvUF6bZOxdNZJoEx1KuaInXiVcyhjfu-EuXoouava5V2s4ZwK7bqK6EZ3tk3R8su9PwrmAxZlGWh6CRiCIMSQJiCPbKDX-jC04sY9Ax-2WsHGyHGTsSxcz1nalMwjQBCsFRI/s1600/2.28.13+Making+Brownies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOfMGJk4lvUF6bZOxdNZJoEx1KuaInXiVcyhjfu-EuXoouava5V2s4ZwK7bqK6EZ3tk3R8su9PwrmAxZlGWh6CRiCIMSQJiCPbKDX-jC04sY9Ax-2WsHGyHGTsSxcz1nalMwjQBCsFRI/s320/2.28.13+Making+Brownies.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>This is The Paralegal Mentor's go-to dessert recipe.</strong> 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"!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Brownies:</span></strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 cup butter (2 sticks)</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">4 1-ounce squares unsweetened chocolate</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2 cups sugar</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">4 eggs, slightly beaten</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 teaspoon vanilla</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 1/2 cups flour</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1/2 teaspoon baking powder</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 teaspoon salt (may reduce to 1/2 teaspoon)</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1 cup chopped nuts (optional) </span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9x13" pan. You can use just one saucepan to mix all ingredients.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In a large saucepan, melt butter and unsweetened chocolate. When melted, stir in sugar and set aside to cool.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>For the ultimate chocolate experience,</strong> make a frosting while the brownies are baking -- use the same pan you used to mix the batter.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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.</span></blockquote>
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Enjoy!</span></strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
<br />
Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5152715287192963411.post-47994626158433233462013-11-19T18:34:00.003-05:002013-11-19T18:34:46.674-05:00Paralegals Need These Personality Traits - Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryoJqlebCkuq81kq-ceE21OrPBy5ZTWOd_EI46QOc8IFhKX3RBztGgXcSxfugEKsl521H2bzP702pAQKVxwYOfVeT7BDLPenBrTny9CPnnll3aPJwpOXNQnjwIT2wntG-BQK0keIuDAg/s1600/bigstock-Personality--Note-small+199x132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryoJqlebCkuq81kq-ceE21OrPBy5ZTWOd_EI46QOc8IFhKX3RBztGgXcSxfugEKsl521H2bzP702pAQKVxwYOfVeT7BDLPenBrTny9CPnnll3aPJwpOXNQnjwIT2wntG-BQK0keIuDAg/s1600/bigstock-Personality--Note-small+199x132.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>In Part 1 of <em>You Need These Personality Traits</em>,</strong> eleven important personality traits paralegals should possess were identified and explained.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">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.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Time now for Part 2 and twelve additional positive traits paralegals need to build a career that can be sustained for the long haul:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Honest.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Incorruptible.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Independent.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Logical:</strong> Using the knowledge you possess, reach reasonable, sensible conclusions. Do your work in a sequence that will increase productivity.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Loyal:</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Organized.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Perfectionist.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Persistent.</strong> Be unrelenting, consistent and determined. Do not quit until the goal is reached or the work is completed.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Punctual.</strong> 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.</span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Responsible.</strong> Be accountable, dependable, and sensible. You should be a person who can be trusted to do the right thing. </span> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Thorough.</strong> 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</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>While there are many other traits that could be on this list,</strong> 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.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">=====================================<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">© 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.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">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.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">More information is available at </span><a href="http://www.paralegalmentor.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">www.paralegalmentor.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;"> where subscribers receive Vicki's 151 Tips for Your Career Success.</span>Paralegal Mentorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08327049706431074826noreply@blogger.com0