IAP NETWORK AUG-SEPT 2009 IAP Network - Idaho Paralegalsidahoparalegals.org/Resources/2009 August...

I A P N E T W O R K A U G - S E P T 2 0 0 9

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thank Lori Peel for all her work on the IAP Board as VP of Membership. Lori had to resign from the Board in June due to scheduling conflicts and she will be sorely missed!

Lastly, please consider serving on the Board of the IAP. It is a fantastic experience and you will learn a lot, not just about the paralegal profession, but about teamwork and board service. Self nominations are always welcome. We are currently looking for nominations for the following positions: •National Affairs

Representative •VP of Education •VP of Membership VP of Policy & Public

Affairs Please contact me if

you have a nomination or if you are interested yourself! I look forward to seeing you at the Paralegal Day Luncheon!

Greetings! I hope you are enjoying your summer! IAP has an exciting event coming up and I hope you will mark your calendars and take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate our profession.

The Paralegal Day Luncheon is fast approaching, Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. at Boise State University in the Student Union Building. The Idaho Association of Paralegals, Inc. (IAP) is celebrating its 29th year as an association. Our profession has seen tremendous change and growth during our history, and we are proud of the contribution our members have made to the delivery of legal services throughout the state. At the luncheon, we will also award the IAP Scholarship in Memory of Denise

O’Donnell Day; join us and meet this year’s recipient!

We will also celebrate our members’

participation in our community service project, the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program administered through the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Law Foundation. Members assist in interviewing and screening applicants who may qualify for legal aid. We are proud of our members’ commitment in giving back to our community. To attend the luncheon, please call or email Renea Ridgeway (208-287-4814; [email protected]).

I would also like to take this opportunity to

President’s Message By Lauren Paul

I N T H I S I S S U E . . .

News From Around the Nation

4

National Certifications for Paralegals

5

IAP Members Discuss the Paralegal Profession

7

Current CLE Opportunities

27

IAP Network A U G - S E P T 2 0 0 9 I D A H O A S S O C I A T I O N O F P A R A L E G A L S

"IAP Network" is published

bi-monthly by the Idaho

Association of Paralegals, Inc.

and is provided as a service to

all members.

Articles and submissions are

welcome.

Opinions expressed in this

publication are those of the

authors and do not

necessarily represent the

opinions of the assocation or

its members.

Idaho Association of Paralegals, Inc. P.O. Box 1254

Boise, ID 83701 www.idahoparalegals.org


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BOARD MEMBERS

2008-2009

LAUREN PAUL, PRESIDENT [email protected] 208-386-5030

RAMONA BANJAC VP OF POLICY & PUBLIC AFFAIRS [email protected] 208-368-1167

RENEA RIDGEWAY, VP OF EDUCATION [email protected] 208-287-4814

MARYANN DUNCAN, ACTING VP MEMBERSHIP [email protected] 208-855-2200

ANNETTE BOTTARO-WALKLET SECRETARY [email protected]

KATHRYN BRANDT, TREASURER [email protected] 208-336-6766

MARYANN DUNCAN, NATIONAL AFFAIRS REPRESENTATIVE [email protected] 208-855-2200

BERNICE MYLES, BOARD ADVISOR [email protected] 208-334-4520

IAP Board meetings are held monthly and are open to all members. The

Board welcomes your comments, ideas and suggestions. Please call any of us

at the above phone numbers.

IAP regularly emails job opportunity announcements to IAP members. For additional job opportunities,

check the Idaho State Bar’s website at http://www2.state.id.us/isb/

job_announce/announcements.cfm

Professionalism is knowing how to do it, when to do it,

and doing it. -Frank Tyger


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IDAHO LEGAL STAFFING, LLCIDAHO LEGAL STAFFING, LLC

Now accepting applications and resumes from paralegals seeking part-time or full-time

employment with Treasure Valley law firms and other organizations.

Contact Merrily Munther at (208) 724-3838 or MaryLou Brewton-Belveal at (208)344-4566.


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News From Around the Nation By Maryann Duncan, National Affairs Representative

The May/June 2009 issue of Legal Assistant Today Incorporating Paralegal Today has a great article on the latest trends in the paralegal profession. Following are a few highlights from that article.

Traci Carper-Strickland, a West Virginia Paralegal was appointed as a chief magistrate for Kanawha County, West Virginia on January 14, 2009. Carper-Strickland’s paralegal background and experience working as a circuit court trial assistant and working in the prosecutor’s office gave her the education and experience she needed for her job as a chief magistrate. As a chief magistrate, Carper-Strickland’s duties include presiding over cases such as initial court appearances, traffic citations, domestic violence petitions, misdemeanors, and landlord-tenant issues.

A South Carolina task force comprised of ten South

Carolina attorneys is currently studying the possibility of a voluntary registration requirement for paralegals in South Carolina. The possible criteria for registration would include a certain level of education, an application process,

and registration fee. In November 2008, the

Oregon State Bar Association’s House of Delegates declined to review a resolution proposed to pursue a state wide certification program for paralegals. While there are some who argue that a paralegal certification program will be beneficial and that without a certification program, attorney’s will have difficulty in hiring qualified paralegals, others feel that paralegal certification creates unnecessary regulation and may even create exposure to attorneys and law firms that employ non-certified people performing paralegal duties.

In 2008, the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal

Associations developed a voluntary Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal program. As of March 2009, the program has credentialed 41 paralegals. The program sought to establish a minimum education standard and work experience requirement in order for a paralegal to be certified. The program is voluntary and a paralegal is not required to complete the certification program. To be credentialed, an applicant must be a member of the Alliance, provide proof of education and/or work experience and submit one declaration from an attorney in good standing with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. To maintain their credentials, a paralegal is required to complete 12 hours of continuing legal education, two hours of which must be in ethics, every two years.

“Professionalism: It’s NOT the job you DO; it’s HOW you DO the job.”

~ Unknown

“...Legal Assistant Today...has a great

article on the latest trends in the

paralegal profession.”


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National Certifications for Paralegals By Pamela Packard, Paralegal Just Us Paralegal Services

What’s in the initials, CLA, CP, PP and RP? These are all certifications available to paralegals. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers the CLA (Certified Legal Assistant) and CP (Certified Paralegal) designations through its Certified Paralegal/Certified Legal Assistant Exam. NALS also offers an advanced certified paralegal (ACP) designation in the areas of contracts management/administration, social security disability, trial practice and alternative dispute resolution. The National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) offers the PP (Professional Paralegal) designation through its Professional Exam. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offers the RP (Registered Paralegal) designation through its Paralegal Advanced

Competency (PACE) Exam.

What do these designations really mean? As with any professional certification, these designations mean that the individual has met certain requirements (generally education and experience) and has passed an examination. Only the NFPA program requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and experience. The NALA and NALS programs require education or experience. For a comparison of the requirements, see the PACE Comparison Chart at www.paralegals.org/associations/2270/files/PACEComparisonChart.cfm.

None of the examinations are for the faint of heart. The CP exam is given over a two day period at various locations across

the United States. An examination will be given at a local site if 10 or more people sit for the exam. The PP exam takes one day and is given at NALS annual meeting. The RP exam is given at Sylvan/Prometric Technology Centers across the country and takes about four hours.

The NALA exam involves testing in the areas of communications, ethics, legal research, judgment and analytical ability, and substantive law (examinees choose four areas from administrative law, bankruptcy, business organizations, civil litigation, contracts, criminal law and procedure, estate planning and probate, family law and real estate).

The NALS exam

“As with any legal professional

certification, these designations mean that the individual

has met certain requirements…”


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National Certifications - cont’d. includes administrative, business organizations, contracts, civil, criminal, family law, real property, torts, wills, trusts and estates, admiralty/maritime, antitrust, bankruptcy, environmental, federal civil rights, employment law, immigration, intellectual property, labor, oil and gas, pension and profit sharing, taxation, water and worker’s compensation law in addition to ethics, communication and legal research.

The NFPA exam covers administration of client legal matters (conflict checks, calendar, databases), development of client legal matters (interviews, information analysis, preparation of legal documents including filing and service, preparation of clients for testimony), factual/legal research (obtaining factual and legal information, investigation,

inspection and evaluation of evidence, analysis of legal authority), factual/legal writing (communications with client and counsel, drafting of analytical documents), and office administration (personnel management, acquisition of technology and utilization of vendor services, library and legal resources, billing system). The RP exam is administered by Professional Examination Service which has developed professional examinations for over 50 years. Paralegals, paralegal educators, paralegal administrators and attorneys develop the questions for the PACE exam.

All of the organizations offer study materials and suggest that study groups be organized to prepare for the examination. NFPA also offers a seven-week course via the internet.

Both NALA and NFPA charge members $250 and non-members $275 to take the test. NALS charges $100-250 depending on membership and PLS certification.

What do people who have taken the exams say? Most people take these exams for personal development although some have received salary increases after being certified. Many people talk about how preparing for the exam has made them more familiar with areas of the law that they only work in occasionally. All admit that significant preparation is required and all breathe a sigh of relief when the exam is completed.

If anyone is interested in forming a study group to take an exam, please contact me at [email protected].


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IAP Members Discuss the Paralegal Profession Submitted by Bernice Myles, Editor

In honor of Paralegal Day, September 10, the IAP Board thought this edition would provide a great forum to not only spotlight some of our members, but also highlight the differences in tasks and responsibilities in the varied practice and specialty areas (e.g., corporate, government, small firm, large firm, insurance, real estate, self-employed, etc.). It is evident from the responses received from member paralegals to a series of questions we posed, that our legal community is privileged to have many educated and experienced paralegals working to provide quality legal services and the IAP is equally privileged to count these paralegals among the members of our professional association. Happy Paralegal Day!

1. How long have you been a paralegal in your particular field of specialty, and did you enter the field ‘on purpose’ or ‘accidentally’?

I’ve been a paralegal for over 25 years. I entered the

real estate field on purpose in 1997. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

I have worked as a paralegal for the Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections for 2½ years. I completed an internship with the Idaho Department of Correction for my B.S. degree and really enjoyed it. Afterward, I found the announcement for a Legal Assistant at DJC. I guess you could say it was accidental, but it was exactly what I was looking for. ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

I have been working with the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) as a paralegal since October 2005. I accidentally entered this field not knowing too much about what the Department was all about. I knew they were the largest construction company in the state and had the Department of Motor Vehicles. I did a little research on the ITD website

(www.itd.idaho.gov) and found out the Department had a lot more sections and responsibilities. I thought the position would be challenging and I am happy to say, I have learned so many new legal specialties. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

I have been a paralegal for 3½ years working in the fields of bankruptcy, family law, probate, and business entities. Before becoming a paralegal, I worked as a paralegal assistant for two years in the same fields with the exception of family law. I entered into the world of law as an assistant rather by accident - I was laid off during the economic downturn of the manufacturing businesses almost eight years ago. It was the era of Jabel, MCMS, Micron, etc., and it was during the peak of their layoffs. I was provided the opportunity of going back to school, all expenses paid. This was a grand opportunity to take

Nancy Patrick, “I’ve

been a paralegal

for over 25 years.”


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Paralegal Profession - cont’d. my dream of being a paralegal and running with it - the ball was in my court. It has been an adventure I have never regretted. ~ Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

I tried very hard to land my first paralegal job. Initially, it was difficult to get my foot in the door. My work experience prior to that had been in another field;

so, I had to make my prior experience/skills relatable as much as possible. I believe that most people who are determined will be able to prove they are right for the job. I began my first paralegal job in September 1996. At the time, I was the new mother of an infant and was excited to start a job with normal hours. Since starting in

the paralegal field, I have worked primarily in litigation matters. However, I began working in the field mostly on plaintiff’s matters and for the past five years I have worked primarily on defense matters. ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

I have been a

subrogation paralegal for five years now. I applied to Great West Casualty Company for the subrogation paralegal position when my contract position with Boise Cascade was about to expire. I had never done subrogation work, so it was a new challenge for me, but I definitely wanted something new! ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

I have worked as a paralegal for a corporation for a total of 18 years, and in the area of contracting for at least 16 of the past 18 years. I also work and have worked in other areas of law, including claims, litigation, and employment law, but my responsibilities in these areas are somewhat limited. I entered the field of law on purpose when I decided to go to law school in 1990. However, following my first year, although I found some aspects of the law intriguing, I did not wish to continue on with law school to get my juris doctorate degree, but rather, pursued working in the field of law in the capacity of a paralegal. ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company

(corporate practice).

I’ve been a paralegal for 16 years, doing litigation work and I did adoptions when I worked for a law firm. I always thought the legal field would be interesting and became a legal secretary first before becoming a paralegal. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

I have been a litigation paralegal and corporate paralegal for the past 12 years. I started contracting in September of 2008. Working for myself was a risk but I have been very fortunate and have more than enough work since I started. I entered the field on purpose with my ultimate goal to attend law school. After graduating high school I looked for a college that had a paralegal program where I could get a bachelor degree. I was living in Coeur d’Alene (North Idaho) and found that Lewis Clark State College in Lewiston offered this degree. After graduation, my husband’s job transferred and which made attending law school more difficult so I jumped into the paralegal profession and decided that is where I wanted to

Candice Tibesar, “I

had never done

subrogation work,

so it was a new

challenge for

me…”


PAGE 9

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. stay. I did leave the profession for a few years to work in the banking industry but have found myself back in the profession and enjoying it again. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

I entered the field accidentally when my mother-in-law at the time got me my first paralegal job so that I could put her son through college. I liked the work so much that I enrolled in the Paralegal Program at Los Angeles City College. I should have had an inkling when I was honored as the outstanding student in the legal department at LACC the year before. Initially my goal was to be an accountant. I know I like working in the legal field better than I would have liked working as an accountant. ~ Pamela Packard, Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

2. Did you have field-specific training outside of your job before you started working in it?

I had no real field-specific training. I had been trying to leave litigation and break into the real estate arena for a

number of years with no luck. I was “typecast” at my firm in the litigation field and had to leave that firm in order to make the change. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

I had about six months experience with my internship with the Idaho Department of Correction and I was fresh out of school with my B.S. in Criminal Justice and my paralegal certificate! ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

I did not have field-specific training, but I took two courses in the Paralegal Studies Program on Natural Resource Law and Business Law which have helped me tremendously to understand regional law. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

I really didn’t have field-specific training outside my job as a paralegal except for having the knowledge of how an office is run and previously working in a business environment. I had training working with

clients, working with little or no supervision, being able to operate copy room equipment, answering phones, and so on. I graduated from Boise State University with an Associate Degree in Legal Office and then finished by receiving a Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Boise State University’s ABA-approved program. ~ Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

I had enrolled in a bachelor’s program at Moorhead State University for paralegals, with a goal of going on to law school some day. I spent 3+ years training to be a paralegal in Minnesota and, for personal reasons, left MSU early to move to Boise where I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in political science from BSU. It seemed, at that time anyway, one had to have some type of degree to get the attention of an interviewer. ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

I had no field-specific training before I started

Pauline Theisen, “I

had enrolled in a

bachelor’s program

at Moorhead State

University for

paralegals…”


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Paralegal Profession - cont’d. my position at Great West Casualty Company. ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

As noted in my response to Question #1 above, following my first year of law school, I clerked for a small two attorney firm in my hometown of Ontario, Oregon for approximately a year and a half. The interesting aspect of

clerking for these attorneys is that one practiced primarily in the area of criminal law, and the other in civil

law. Additionally, one of the attorneys was blind which afforded me ample opportunity to be that attorney's eyes and ears in the courtroom and in visiting clients in incarceration. As a law clerk, I was given the opportunity to experience a wide range of tasks, including drafting an appellate brief to be filed with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (which we won!). Although I did not perform much contract work during this period, I

was exposed to many areas of the practice of law I believe I may never have been otherwise. And many of the skills and training I received in these other areas of the law gave me the fundamental tools to perform much of the work I currently do and have done throughout the years in my career at Idaho Power Company. ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company (corporate practice).

My degree was in Social Science and then I had become a legal secretary doing litigation and adoption work before getting my paralegal certificate. I had been accepted in nursing school and then decided at the last minute that I should continue my education in the legal field, since I already had so many years of experience in that field. I worked many years in a law firm and then got a great opportunity to come to Boise Cascade, which is now OfficeMax. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

No. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

I received no instruction

when I began as a paralegal. I was given a set of interrogatories to summarize and learned only after I took several hours to come up with three sentences that summarization is actually regurgitation. I decided I would be much better at my job if I understood more about the areas of law so I began taking classes at LACC. ~ Pamela Packard, Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

3. On a typical work day, describe what you do.

Generally speaking, there are no more typical days in the real estate world! We have seen a decline in projects; some of those that we currently have are projected out more than a year for commencement. These are amazing times! Prior to “our current economic situation,” my typical day was consumed with managing 10-20 projects which consisted of all aspects of negotiation of purchase agreements, sale agreements, tenant and ground leases; close involvement in the legal side of construction matters such as negotiation


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Paralegal Profession - cont’d. and preparation of easements, CC&Rs, site planning; fulfilling tenant delivery requirements; coordination with title companies for closings on purchases and sales, review and negotiation of title matters; communicating with tenants in completion of their lease requirements, as well as many other details of the processes. Today, we have had to make changes. Fewer people are needed to handle that side of the projects, so I spend most of my time on the property management side of the deal, learning how to take care of tenants in our properties, from everything such as roof maintenance, equipment failures, tenant inquiries, and rent issues. I’ve started on easy projects, from a tenant whose projects I completed on the legal/construction side, so I’m familiar with the deal. I expect to learn all aspects of property management which includes many legal issues, just as I learned the development side of the projects. I also process all real estate taxes for all of our holdings in over seventeen states with often multiple holdings within each state. That aspect of the process includes

monitoring and analyzing real estate tax assessments, and processing tax payments for each project, and, in 2010, handling all appeals of tax assessments. This is also a time to do those jobs that couldn’t get done in the past due to the workload. For example, I’m reviewing all of our ground leases from the beginning of time, updating all information, abstracting them and making sure that I have the paper trail necessary to adequately monitor the ground leases for their entire term. There are always those jobs that you wish you could get to, clean up, revise, tweak, but just can’t find the time. Now is the time! Sharpen your saw, become better at what you do, and add new skills. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

On a typical day I do a variety of tasks. I provide support to two deputy attorneys general from the Criminal Division of the Attorney General's Office. This includes research on various topics, i.e., juvenile issues, sex offenders issues, civil rights, victims rights, open meetings, public records, and legislative and

administrative rules are some that I have been involved with lately. I provide support to the Custody Review Board - this board operates similar to a parole board and reviews juveniles in the Department's custody who are about to turn 19. I draft pleadings and correspond with courts and other state facilities. I enter commitments that come from the various juvenile courts throughout the state. I also review, draft, and revise polices. I am a liaison with the Juvenile Sex Offender Registry where I help resolve issues with those juveniles who must register as sex offenders, and much, much more! ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

The Department allows the paralegals to work in all areas of civil and administrative law that may come our way. The typical work day may include one or all of the following duties: provide administrative support to the legal office, i.e., maintain law library,

Melissa Davis, “On

a typical day I do a

variety of tasks.”


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Paralegal Profession - cont’d. organize electronic documents for e-filing, draft professional service agreements for experts and vendors; analyze case documents, identify legal issues, and draft legal briefs, pleadings, discovery, and motions; identify case law, statutes, and legislative history regarding pertinent legal issues to determine case relevancy and applicability and drafts summaries; develop queries and use WESTLAW, law library, and legislative library to research federal and state laws and rules, court decisions, legal periodicals, and administrative rules;

establish and maintain computerized data base system to track all cases and determine standards for data entry; research and respond to inquiries from clients, interested parties, attorneys, judicial and

department staff regarding status of cases, legal processes, clarification of regulations and state statutes; and coordinate agency administrative hearings for denial of drivers licenses, dealership licenses, salesman licenses, and outdoor advertising, and review encroachment and access

permits to state highways.

Administrative Hearings include:

Drivers License Suspension - The administrative license suspension for a driver occurs when the driver’s license is suspended for law infractions. The driver may request a hearing before a hearing officer to make a determination if the infraction relates to a suspension of privilege.

Dealership and Salesman License - A dealer license is required when any person sells five or more vehicles/vessels (that are required to be titled) per calendar year. There are other criteria to meet as well and can be found at http://itd.idaho.gov/dmv/ VehicleServices/vs_dealr.htm and how to apply for a license. The administrative hearing occurs when a licensee appeals a decision for suspension or non-renewal of a license for not following the criteria for specific requirements to maintain a license. There are specific Idaho statutes outlining the procedure for the administrative hearing time lines.

Outdoor Media

Advertising - The administrative hearing occurs when the applicant appeals the denial of an application for outdoor advertising along the federal or state highway system. Applicants have to meet the criteria of the Highway Beautification Act of 1965 (Lady Bird Johnson Act). The act requires all states to provide continued effective control of outdoor advertising and failure to do so may result in a 10% reduction of federal funds to the state.

Access Appeals - The administrative hearing occurs when the applicant appeals the denial of an application for Right of Way Encroachment Application and Permit Approaches and Other Encroachments from the owner's property to a federal or state highway.

Relocation Appeals - The administrative hearing occurs when the owner of the property disagrees with the benefit of relocation from the Department.

Vehicle/Vessel Title Issues - The administrative hearing occurs when the vehicle’s title is cancelled or is reclassified and the owner requests a hearing. A vehicle’s title can be


PAGE 13

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. cancelled when more than one title exists for the vehicle. A vehicle’s title may be reclassified when the vehicle is salvaged.

Personal License Plate Appeals - The administrative hearing occurs when the applicant requests a hearing when the Department denies a personal plate that may be discriminatory or vulgar.

Personnel Administrative Hearing - The administrative hearing occurs when an employee has a conflict with state or department policy or disagrees with their performance review. Unlike the previous hearings this process is coordinated and scheduled through the Personnel Commission.

We also may handle construction/damage claims. Contractors will ask for reimbursement for increased costs of items, for example, asphalt mix or steel. The Department reviews the information and makes a determination. If the contractor wants to appeal the decision they file an appeal with the Legal Section who starts the arbitration process. Damage claims come from vehicles that damage

bridges or other state property. The Department contacts the responsible party for insurance or other third party information for reimbursement of repair costs.

Civil litigation is another part of the position, such as eminent domain cases, which is the police power of the government to acquire land for public use. Eminent domain occurs when land is required for public use, (in ITD’s case) such as a highway. Parcel owners are offered fair market value for their land and/or relocation benefits for moving expenses or replacement property, if the entire parcel is purchased and their primary residence was located on this parcel. If negotiations are stalled between the Right of Way Agent and the owner, the Right of Way Manager recommends an Order of Condemnation from the Director. The Order of Condemnation is required to be an exhibit of the Complaint when filed with the District Court.

Legislation research is done when an existing law needs to be modified and the intent of the legislature

is needed or if another state agency needs to be part of the coordination. Most information can be obtained at http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/ or from WESTLAW. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

Oh boy, a typical work day? No one day is ever the same as another - that is just one of the things I love about my job/career. My typical week starts the Friday preceding the week ahead, making sure files are current and ready to go for hearings/trials. When Monday arrives, I am prepared for client calls, returning calls, prepping schedules for a bankruptcy filing, preparing pleadings, letters, etc., etc., etc. ~ Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

I usually start my work day by checking my e-mail and voice messages and prioritizing projects and assignments. I continually update databases I am keeping for each case I am

Bryonann Green,

“Oh boy, a typical

work day? No one

day is ever the

same…”


PAGE 14

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. assigned to. I draft a variety of documents for the attorneys’ review/approval. What I do each day varies a great deal; however, I need to be prepared to do various kinds of research, perform interviews, prepare numerous documents, organize documents and information to assist an attorney and/or client, and rarely but quite important – assist my attorney(s) in court. ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

I work for an insurance company that insures trucking companies and individual truck drivers. I handle a varying number of subrogation claims. The number fluctuates from day to day - some get resolved and closed and then I get new claims each day to add to my existing open claims. When I get a claim set up, I review the facts of the accident and send an opening letter to our insured. My assistant works on getting me the other parties' insurance information so I can subrogation against them (this means I try to get reimbursement on our insured's damages from the other insurance company). If the party that hit our insured doesn't

have insurance, I send a demand letter to the at-fault individual directly. I then gather information needed to send my demand - estimates, loss of use claims (our insureds lose money when their trucks aren't drivable and they can't rent a unit), police report, witness statements, photos of the scene and the damage, medical bills (if our insured was injured), etc. I then dictate a demand to the other party's insurance carrier and wait for their response on payment. If the other insurance company pays on the claim, I disburse payment as needed and close my file. If the adverse insurance company denies the claim, I usually will hire an attorney in the state where the accident occurred (attorneys in the particular state where the accident occurred are more familiar with that state's laws regarding subrogation). The attorney will then assist with filing suit and getting the claim resolved via litigation. Once the claim is completed (either we

prevail and get payment from the adverse company or we don't), I close my file.

There is a lot of waiting in my job, but since I'm at various stages in each claim, I am never bored. A lot of what I do is wait for responses from adverse insurance companies, follow up on witness statements, police reports,

etc., and do investigative work on individuals who aren't insured (to see if they have any assets, are employed, have a

valid driver’s license, etc.). If an uninsured motorist hits our insured and they don't respond to my demand letter for reimbursement, I can suspend their driver's license and get a judgment against them so that they are required to pay the claim in full. ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

Since I work for a corporation, I am able to work with a number of individuals from a variety of departments every day and be exposed to a variety of issues and areas outside the field of


PAGE 15

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. law. On a typical day, among other tasks, I spend my day reviewing, revising, commenting on and drafting a variety of agreements involving the corporation I work for. I further work with two of our staff attorneys in drafting and updating a number of agreement templates that are approved by Idaho Power's Legal Department to be used by our company's Contract Administrators. Since it is impossible to draft specific agreements for every transaction and relationship, these template agreements enable the Contract Administrators to more efficiently procure the goods and services necessary to maintain and perform the day to day business of Idaho Power Company. ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company (corporate practice).

Witness interviews, gather and review documents, prepare timelines and key player lists of possible witnesses, prepare Answers to Complaints, answer discovery (interrogatories and requests for production of documents), prepare initial disclosures,

communicate and assist outside counsel in preparing documents, assist attorneys when they are preparing for depositions, assist attorneys when they are preparing mediation statements, assist attorneys when they are preparing summary judgment briefs, etc. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

As a contractor, your day can be very routine or not at all what you planned. I currently work for an attorney for a corporation and an attorney in a private law firm. This provides me a vast difference in the type of work that is assigned to me. I try to time block my days so that I work half of the day for one attorney and the other half of the day for the other attorney. Most of my work for the private law firm involves electronic discovery. I’m typically responsible for gathering of the documents (hard copy and electronic) by putting into an online database. This involves tracking the chain of custody, preserving past files, hard drives and server files in order to capture the metadata. Once I have gathered all the documents, I review them

for relevance and privilege to prepare the attorney. I also work during depositions, hearings, trials, etc., to provide searches and retrieve documents from the database that are needed by the attorney. Most of this type of work I can do from home because of the online database and all files existing in electronic format. My work for the corporation involves more case management by retrieving records, answering discovery request, reviewing electronic and hardcopy documents for relevance and privilege. Most of the corporation’s cases are filed in federal court and are all over the United States. Therefore, I work with outside counsel and individual company contacts to make sure we are gathering and reviewing all information relevant to the lawsuit. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

My typical day consists of working mostly in the litigation area. I might draft or respond to discovery, locate a factual or expert witness, prepare

Deb Taylor, “...I am

able to work with a

number of

individuals from a

variety of

departments...”


PAGE 16

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. documents and questions for deposition, prepare exhibits for deposition or trial, prepare trial notebooks, research legal issues, perform factual investigation, maintain a database or input information into a database. As a contract paralegal, I am often asked to analyze office systems, suggest database programs

or provide training to other employees. ~ Pamela Packard, Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

4. What part of your job do you like best or find the most challenging? Is there something you wish you could do more of (or be allowed/asked to do more of)?

I’ve always been extremely busy, but now I’m busy with learning some accounting, brushing up on Excel, things I didn’t have to use in years past. I look on this time as a unique opportunity to improve some skills and add new skills. That was hard to do in a job I knew backward and forward…I had new issues, but utilized old skills to resolve those issues. Now,

I have to learn new skills and I’m happy to do so. I loved what I was doing before “our current economic times,” but when times are tough, you have to reinvent yourself. I’m trying to do that now and still be available, if the time comes, to step back in to some type of the work I loved. I see myself keeping these new skills and tasks and having a “hybrid” position that allows me to work on new projects. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

I really enjoy the research and writing aspect of my job - I am not saying I necessarily want more of those projects, but I do like them when they come up! I find investigating subjects really fun! ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

My job is always challenging because I learn something new every day. I like working with administrative hearings and eminent domain cases. I work with six wonderful deputy attorneys general and they each allow me to help draft pleadings,

letters, and help research to draft memorandums for motion of support or trial briefs to different legal issues. I would like to do more research into the various legal issues that come up from time to time. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

To be quite honest, the times I enjoy my work most are when I am able to complete a task without any interruptions, and, as all of us paralegals know, this can be a challenge in itself. As this does not happen as often as I like, I would have to say the next best thing about my job is being able to assist and do my part on all of our cases. I am very fortunate to have a boss who allows me to reach to levels that I am comfortable with. What I mean by that is she has a level of trust in me that allows me to continue learning different areas of case management and to bring in additional ideas of my own. She is open to new ideas and I am able to communicate well with her on so many levels. We have worked together long enough to recognize when I am ready to take the next step in learning, and the

Nancy Patrick, “I

look on this time as

a unique

opportunity to

improve some skills

and add new

skills.”


PAGE 17

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. learning never stops. ~ Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

The E-Discovery laws are constantly being changed, tested and interpreted. Further, it causes one to keep up with the latest technology to support e-discovery and related issues to a reasonably acceptable level. The thing I like most about my job is that it can vary so greatly! ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

I like being able to do investigative work on the individuals and I find it challenging sometimes deciding on whether to pursue a claim based on the amount of the damages and whether the other party has anything to go after (if they don't have a job, assets, etc., it may not be in our best economic interest to pursue the claim). I wish I could go out on the scene more and work more with the accident reconstructionists and various other specialists. Our liability adjustors usually do that and, although I often work with the experts via phone conversations, I think it

would be very interesting to be more hands on at times, particularly in the more serious losses. ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

I find great joy in interacting with my fellow employees of Idaho Power and learning the jobs that each of them do. I have enormous respect for each of them in the way each is passionate about his or her profession. I realize that because we all work for the same company, we all have the same goal in desiring our company to succeed. Therefore, my goal each day I go to work is to be as efficient and responsive as I can be to the people with whom I work. ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company (corporate practice).

My favorite part of my job is interviewing witnesses; I enjoy people and it’s always interesting interviewing our clients. It’s great getting the chance to see the workings of a corporation. In our office we get the opportunity to do many tasks that a typical associate attorney does in

a law firm. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

I like the flexibility of my own schedule. I like the different practice areas and also find that to be the most challenging. My other challenge is that I don’t have a group of paralegals to brainstorm with or bounce ideas around like you do in a law firm setting. There is nothing that I wish I could do more of (or be allowed/asked to do more of. If they are hiring me to do a task as a contractor it is usually true paralegal work and/or something I have experience with or enjoy. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

I think the most challenging thing about being an independent contractor is that you don’t have a place to go every day and it is a little more difficult to demonstrate that you are part of a team. You must prove yourself every day and show attorneys that you are capable of doing the work. ~ Pamela Packard,

Sarah Edmunds, “I

like the flexibility

of my own

schedule.”


PAGE 18

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

5. What advice do you have for paralegals wanting to get into your specialty area (i.e., experience, education, special training, etc.)?

In these times, I think it is imperative to have a college education that includes at least a minor from a paralegal studies program to break into the paralegal field. It certainly doesn’t hurt to take real

estate courses during that paralegal education. As a profession, we still suffer from the same issues that I struggled with being on the Board many years ago, which are credibility and credentialing. If I were hiring a paralegal in this or any field, I would not hire someone that did not have sufficient paralegal education and,

to me, that requires completion of an ABA-approved program. You can tell the difference! Continue to credential yourselves. I chose to also utilize the available national certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants, and

became first a certified legal assistant and later an ACP, advanced certified paralegal with real estate emphasis. I believe these credentials assisted me, as well, in breaking into and being successful in the real estate field. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

Be ready to be an all-around paralegal, especially in state government. Your task list will involve a lot more than the typical paralegal’s duties! ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

My advice to anyone interested in getting involved with the Legal Section in the Transportation Department is to have a broad knowledge of real property titles, natural resource law, business law, geology, and construction terms. Most important to know are the Rules of Civil Procedure and Idaho Administrative Procedures Act. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

Learn, learn, continue learning, and then learn

some more! Really! Education, whether it is on-the-job or college, is a never ending process. Continue to challenge yourself. You will even find things you can do that your attorney thinks are difficult, but may actually turn out to be a piece of cake. Always network - you never know when someone will need your assistance or you will need theirs. The old saying is true - you only get out of it what you have put into it – and the more you put into it, the more valuable you are. ~ Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

Before you consider this type of position, you must know that it requires a detailed and organized person. I now know people with so many different types of experience that I have to believe it is more about having the right blend of personality and general life experience than anything else. ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

My managing attorney wants paralegals that have a certificate and I find my schooling was very helpful in understanding

Pamela Packard,

“You must prove

yourself every day

and show attorneys

that you are

capable of doing

the work.”


PAGE 19

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. various types of law. I also am fortunate enough to work for a company that is very pro education and training. If someone was interested in doing subrogation work, I would recommend speaking with people in the insurance/medical field (or whichever field you'd like to do subrogation work in) and find out what specific companies look for. My specific company requires a bachelor’s degree and a paralegal certificate, along with some paralegal experience (subrogation experience not needed). I definitely recommend that a paralegal get a certificate from an ABA accredited program, like the program at Boise State. If I didn't have my certificate, I would not have gotten this position; I would have been edged out by someone who did. ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

Even though the path that led me to my area of specialty was somewhat unconventional (as mentioned above), the year I had of law school and the period of time in which I clerked for a private law firm distinctly enabled me to get the job that I have

had for 18 years. I have been fortunate enough to acquire my knowledge of contracting not only by means of a formal law school education, but by simply working with and for multiple wonderful attorneys over the years who have mentored me along the way. Simply said, working in this area of law day in and day out allows you to deal with all kinds of issues wherein you gain valuable experience and knowledge. Notwithstanding, each day always brings something new and therefore, my job is never boring. But obtaining a formal education first lays the foundation for a successful and more well-rounded career in the long run if a person desires to continue in the field of law. ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company (corporate practice).

I love working for a corporation. I know that the paralegal program offers a corporate law class; however, I didn’t take it. At the time I was in the paralegal program, I was working for a law firm and didn’t think that I would ever have an opportunity to work for a corporation. Now that I

have, I would never even consider going back to a law firm. I think some paralegals may not be that attracted to working for a corporation; however, I think they might really surprise themselves on just how much they would enjoy it. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

I’m always a big advocate for education in this field as well as doing internships in different areas of law to see what you enjoy. Contract work can provide you great flexibility but you will also not have benefits you receive from working for an employer. If you decide contracting is where you want to be you will want to make sure you are able to provide the support needed to different attorneys. This means your office may need to be mobile where you can work from home, their office or any location that your client may need. I find that the more portable I am, the easier it is for the attorney. This requires you to be very in tune with

Teresa Viker,

“...each day always

brings something

new and therefore,

my job is never

boring.”


PAGE 20

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. technology and sometimes available with little to no notice. Remember, if you don’t provide good service and work, the attorney may not call you again for additional work. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

The best piece of advice that I could give someone interested in contract work is to get substantial experience before you

start. Participate in volunteer activities with the state bar association so that you can meet people and let them see how you work. ~ Pamela Packard, Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

6. Has it been helpful to your career to be a member of a

professional association (paralegal or other kind)?

I joined the Idaho Association of Paralegals immediately upon moving to Boise in 1988. I had been involved with the National Association of Legal Assistants prior to that time. Being on the Board of IAP for many years gave me confidence

in dealing with a variety of paralegal issues, assisted me in becoming my own person with opinions and ideas about how I wanted this profession to progress, and allowed me to mentor others who desired to enter into the paralegal field. We made wide-sweeping changes to the association in those early years that have benefited us all. I’m a better paralegal and person because of my association with women in this field who I admire greatly. Among us, we know we have accomplished much and are lifelong friends because of our relationships and our accomplishments. When the opportunity arises, join other associations in your profession. I am a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers and have taken advantage of some great continuing legal education as a result. ~ Nancy Patrick, ACP, Hawkins Companies, LLC (real estate practice).

It has definitely been helpful to be a part of the IAP. They offer great support, training, and volunteer activities that may help you develop parts of your career you may not get in your

current job, i.e., I always try to participate in IVLP night because I have learned some great interviewing skills that I have not necessarily learned working with DJC. ~ Melisa Davis, Paralegal, Idaho Department of Juvenile Correction (government practice).

Yes, being a member of IAP has helped a lot. When I was preparing for a trial I called several members for assistance on jury Instructions and voir dire. When trial was completed and an appeal was filed a whole new set of questions surfaced about the appeal process. Their help was invaluable. I still have questions and anybody I contact always provides the information or provides a name of who may have an answer. ~ Lisa Hoag, Legal Assistant, Idaho Transportation Department (government practice).

It has been a huge help to be a member of a professional association. Not only has it helped me to break out of my shell, but I have also met new friends and it provides me a way to keep up with my networking skills and continuing education. ~

Melissa Davis, “It

has definitely been

helpful to be a part

of IAP.”


PAGE 21

Paralegal Profession - cont’d. Bryonann Green, Paralegal, Law Offices of Frances R. Stern (small firm).

Definitely, it helps keep me updated on what is happening in the area. IAP helps me keep up on my CLE and makes me aware of CLE opportunities. At one time it looked great on a resume too. ~ Pauline Theisen, Paralegal, Stoel Rives, LLP (large firm).

Although most of the topics that are covered at the IAP seminars aren't relevant to my job, I still feel that I gain knowledge by being a part of IAP. A lot of the topics covered are general enough that I can apply them to my position and even though some aren't pertinent at all, it is interesting to learn about various things that are going on in other areas of law and in the paralegal world in general. It’s a great way to network and learn about other companies and to compare job functions, salary ranges, etc. ~ Candice Tibesar, Paralegal, Great West Casualty Company (insurance practice).

Absolutely! The friendships that I have established along the way and the networking opportunities that have

been provided to me since becoming a member of Idaho Association of Paralegals have been invaluable. The continuing legal education opportunities have likewise been of enormous value and I look forward to my continued participation in IAP as long as I continue to work in the field of law (which will likely be a very long time since I now have a two year old to put through college someday! :-) ). ~ Teresa Viker, Paralegal II, Idaho Power Company (corporate practice).

It’s been very helpful to be a member of a professional association; it provides me with an opportunity to continue my education and to network with other paralegals at the same time. One example is there have been times when another paralegal has used a certain type of software that our office has been interested in and the advice we gain from each other has been very helpful. ~ Deb Taylor, Senior Paralegal, OfficeMax (corporate practice).

Yes, I think it is always good to be networking and

learning new things. If you stay within the same circles and do not constantly expand your knowledge in the field you could be narrowing your options as a contractor. ~ Sarah Edmunds, Paralegal, Contract Paralegal Services (self-employed).

Being a member of a professional organization has been very helpful to my career. It is participating in the organization, being a member of the board, speaking at seminars that has improved my communication skills, taught me about getting along with people, given me a forum for improving skills and introduced me to many interesting people. ~ Pamela Packard, Paralegal, Just Us Paralegal Services (self-employed).

Lisa Hoag, “I still have questions and anybody I contact

always provides the information or

provides a name of who may have an

answer.”


PAGE 22

The IAP would like to congratulate the most recent graduates of Boise State

University’s Paralegal Studies Program!

Maggie Black Suzanne McFarlane

Donna Murphy Sunciaray Price

Kay Dee Robertson Whitney Simmons

Jennifer Theios Becky Thompson


PAGE 23


PAGE 24

Plan to attend IAP’s AN-NUAL PARALEGAL DAY LUNCHEON scheduled for THURSDAY, SEPTEM-BER 10, 2009 FROM 11:30 A.M. TO 1:00 P.M. The event will be held in the Jordan B room at Boise State University. Watch your email for additional in-formation concerning parking and menu op-tions. For more information please contact Re-nea Ridgeway, Vice President of Education, at [email protected] or at (208) 287-4814.

Mark your calendars for the IAP’s FALL SEMINAR & ANNUAL BUSINESS MEET-ING set for OCTOBER 16, 2009. Watch your email for further details and registration infor-mation.

The next IVLP NIGHT SESSION is scheduled for WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2009, and will run from approximately 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Volunteers will be assisting individuals in filling out divorce, custody, and modification forms on-line, or conducting telephonic inter-views/investigations. IAP members will receive one CLE credit toward their annual CLE require-ment for IAP membership. The IVLP will pro-vide pizza and there will also be a drawing for two free movie tickets! Contact Ramona Banjac, Vice President of Policy and Public Affairs, at [email protected] or at 208-368-1167 for details and to volunteer.

IAP BOARD MEETINGS are scheduled for noon on THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, and on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3. The meetings will be held at the offices of the Washington Di-vision of URS Corporation, 720 Park Blvd., Boise, Idaho. For further information, contact Lauren Paul, President, at [email protected] or at 208-386-5030.

At the June 4, 2009 Board meeting, the Board approved Laurie “Lou” Engelhardt as an Active Status Pending member. Lou received her MS in School Counseling from University of LaVerne in Sacramento, CA, and her BS in Psychology/Pre-Nursing from Eastern Montana College in Billings, MT. Lou has 12 years’ experience as a paralegal and is currently seeking a paralegal position. We welcome Lou as new member and hope that you have the opportunity to take advantage of CLEs offered by IAP. IAP now has 64 members: 55 Active members, 3 Active Status Pending members, 4 Student members, 1 Retired member, and 1 Supporting member. All Active and Active Status Pending members please remember that you need to obtain at least six hours of continuing legal education each year (unless your hours are prorated because you joined after the start of the fiscal year). If you have attended non-IAP-sponsored CLEs, please remember to fill out the CLE form that can be found on the IAP website (www.idahoparalegals.org) prior to submitting the CLE materials to IAP for credit. You can e-mail your completed CLE information to me at any time during the year [email protected]). Finally, please remember to let me know if you have a change of address, e-mail address, job or telephone number to ensure that you continue to receive IAP news and seminar information, as well as job bank notifications .

Membership News By Lori Peel, Vice President of

Membership

Upcoming CLEs, Meetings & Events


PAGE 25

Wright ResearchWright Research Are you located in Ada County and need something from Canyon County, or vice versa?

Let us do the running for you.

Wright Research performs a variety of services for law firms, management companies, and pre‐employment agencies. We visit Ada and Canyon courthouses daily and can do

background checks and document retrievals for you within 24 hours.

Criminal Background Check 7 yr fel/misd. $5.00 Civil Background Check 7 yrs. $15.00

Document Retrieval $10.00/file All copies are $1.00/page

Wright Research Phone: 208-455-2486

Fax: 208-455-2462 Email: [email protected]


PAGE 26

IAP Bulletin Board P ARALEGAL DAY – Plan to attend IAP’s annual Paralegal Day Luncheon on September 10 in recognition of the positive contributions made by paralegals in making quality legal services accessible and available. See details in the “UPCOMING CLES, MEETINGS & EVENTS” section of this newsletter.

A NNUAL MEETING – Mark your calendars for October 16, IAP’s Fall Seminar and Annual Business Meeting! There are sure to be a variety of interesting and valuable CLE presentations and new officers for the 2009‐2010 Board will be elected.

R EWARDING EXPERIENCE – Consider serving on the Idaho Association of Paralegals Board! IAP is working to select nominees for Board positions for the upcoming year. Contact President Lauren Paul at [email protected] for more information. Self nominations are always welcome!

A TTENTION! – IAP would like to post your achievements, awards, or announcements (e.g., new job, marriage, new baby) to this IAP Bulletin Board. Please email information to Bernice Myles at [email protected].

L ABOR DAY SEPTEMBER 7 – Celebrated the first Monday in September, Labor Day is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well‐being of our country.

E XCITING NEW CHALLENGE – IAP would like to congratulate IAP member LORI PEEL on her new position as Business Operations Specialist with the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses! Lori has been a member of IAP since 1997 and has worked as a paralegal for 14 years. Although we will miss her among the paralegal ranks, we wish her the very best in her new endeavor!

G IVE BACK – Volunteer for an IAP IVLP (Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program) Night session and earn CLE credits! The next session is scheduled for October 7. Contact Ramona Banjac at [email protected] for more information.

A RTICLES WELCOME – In our continuing efforts to provide our membership with interesting and pertinent news and information, the Board values your experience and expertise! If you are interested in writing an article for publication in the IAP Network, please contact Bernice Myles at [email protected].

L OOKS ARE EVERYTHING! – The IAP Board would like to give a special “Thank You” to TAMMY KILLIAN for her initiative and expertise in giving the IAP Network a facelift ‐ the new look is very sharp and professional! Tammy has been designing and doing the layout of IAP’s newsletter for ten years. Her excellent work and dedication are truly appreciated and the newsletter would not be the success it is without her talents! THANK YOU, TAMMY!!


PAGE 27

Current CLE Opportunities If you would like additional, detailed information on any of these seminars,

please contact Renea Ridgeway at (208) 287-4814 or [email protected]

Lorman Business Center, Inc. | 715‐833‐3940

Protection Attorney Work Product in Communications with Testifying & Consulting Experts, Teleconference

August 10

National Business Institute | 715‐835‐8525

Issues in Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Cases for Paralegals, Webcast August 11

What You Need to Know When Bankruptcy Visits Your Construction Project, Teleconference

August 13

E‐Discovery & the Zubulake Duty for Paralegals, Teleconference August 13

Ethics for Litigation Paralegals, Teleconference August 14

Collection Law from Start to Finish, Boise, ID August 25

The ADA Amendments Act of 2008: New Definitions & Challenges, Webcast August 25

Medical & Other Records for Paralegals: How to Get the Most From Them, Webcast August 25

Recognizing & Curing Common Title Defects: A Paralegal’s Guide, Webcast August 25

Streamlining Discovery in Civil Litigation, Teleconference August 27

What You Need to Know About Nursing Law, Teleconference August 28

Getting Started in Federal Court, Teleconference September 1

Legal Research for Paralegals: Selecting Appropriate Authorities, Webcast September 1

Employee Discharge & Documentation: How Not to Become a Defendant, Webcast September 2

The Paralegal’s Guide to Obtaining & Organizing Medical Records for Review, Webcast September 2

The Probate Process from Start to Finish, Boise, ID September 8

The New FMLA Regulations, Teleconference September 10

Practical Guide to Zoning & Land Use Law, Boise, ID September 14

Fundamental Considerations in a Real Estate Transaction, Teleconference September 17


PAGE 28

Current CLE Opportunities If you would like additional, detailed information on any of these seminars,

please contact Renea Ridgeway at (208) 287-4814 or [email protected]

The Paralegal’s Guide to Practicing Safe Stress, Teleconference September 18

Document Management in the Trenches: How Paralegals Can Get (and Stay) September 23

A Paralegal’s Guide to Preparing Medical Information for Use at Trial, September 24

Medical Records: Understanding Chart Components, Teleconference September 25

Discovery in the Electronic Age, Teleconference September 25

Keys to Preparing & Drafting Estate Planning Documents for Paralegals, Webcast September 30

LINKS TO OTHER CLE OPPORTUNITIES

www.westleagledcenter.com | www2.state.id.us/isb/cle/upcoming_course.htm | www.nbi‐sems.com

www.halfmoonseminars.com | www.lorman.com | www.ipe‐sems.com | www.estrinlegaled.com


PAGE 29

The fourth IAP member to email Bernice Myles (bernice.myles @ag.idaho.gov) with the Canon number, from the Code of Ethics

and Professional Responsibility of the Idaho

Association of Paralegals, which states that “[a] paralegal shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law …,” will win two free movie tickets! (Only one email per member, please.)

Congratulations to RENEA RIDGEWAY with Idaho Department of Water Resources, who won movie tickets in June for the correct answer - Intellectual Property.

Win Movie

Tickets

IAP NETWORK AUG-SEPT 2009 IAP Network - Idaho Paralegalsidahoparalegals.org/Resources/2009 August...

Documents

Transcript of IAP NETWORK AUG-SEPT 2009 IAP Network - Idaho Paralegalsidahoparalegals.org/Resources/2009 August...