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3 Fugitive Safe Surrender by Joanie Shackleton 5 2011 NFPA Joint Conference April 28 through May 1, Cleveland Ohio 7 Students' Corner by Jackie Crossland 8 Monthly Member Profile 10 Feature Article by Vicki Voisin 13 CAP Vendor of the Month Major Legal Services www.capohio.org volume 30 no. 8 april 2011 CLEVELAND ASSOCIATION of PARALEGALS, INC. An affiliate member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association Member National Federation of Paralegal Associations Tuesday, April 26 5:15 pm - Cady Reporting Services 6th Annual Champagne & Chocolate event. Thursday, April 28 - Sunday, May 1 NFPA Joint Conference Tuesday, May 3 CAP Board Meeting, Call-in. Thursday, May 5 Book Club Meeting: The Faith Club: A Muslim, A Christian, A Jew - Three Women Search for Understanding. 7:00 pm at Panera Bread - Tiedeman Road at I-480. I Hello CAP! President’s Message by Christy A. Zeyer It almost seemed like we were starting April with a new question. I know that April showers bring May flowers but what do April snows bring? Hopefully, by now the snow has subsided and sunny skies are here once again. CAP is off to a great start with its Amazon link on our website. To date we have earned $24.08 from purchases. Please remember if you or someone you know is going to make a purchase from Amazon, click on the link for Amazon from our website www.capohio.org. A small percentage of sales purchased through our link go to CAP. We will continue to provide you with a monthly sales update. Thank you to John Primm and Renee Everett for assisting with questions relating to ethics and student education which CAP has received via our website. Thank you to Becky Kerstetter for representing CAP at the NFPA Region III - Spring Meeting in South Bend, Indiana from Friday, April 8, 2011 to Saturday, April 9, 2011. We look forward to hearing what Becky has to share when she returns. The end of April will be a busy one. CADY’s 6th Annual Champagne Chocolate Event and the NFPA Joint Conference on Regulation, Leadership and PACE are both in the same week. I am looking forward to both of them. I hope to see you at one or both of the events. We have heard questions from members regarding why they should attend the NFPA Joint Conference. Here are a few reasons for attending a NFPA meeting, conference or convention. 1. You are able to network with paralegals from across the nation. 2. You may forge new professional paralegal friendships. 3. It gives you a first-hand look at what your dues are paying for. As a CAP member, a portion of your dues are forwarded for your NFPA membership. 4. It provides you with the opportunity to meet the NFPA Board and Coordinators. 5. You will learn what the current status is for paralegal regulation. (Continues on page 2) by Christy A. Zeyer Christy A. Zeyer is an OSBA Certified Paralegal at Hickman & Lowder Co., L.P.A. She can be reached at [email protected]

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Page 1: Cleveland assoCiation volume 30 no. 8 ... 2011 NewsCAPsule.pdf · excellent resume enhancer when you are looking for employment. Please feel free to drop me a line by email or feel

3 Fugitive Safe Surrender by Joanie Shackleton

5 2011 NFPA Joint Conference April 28 through May 1, Cleveland Ohio

7 Students' Corner by Jackie Crossland

8 Monthly Member Profile

10 Feature Article by Vicki Voisin

13 CAP Vendor of the Month Major Legal Services

www.capohio.org volume 30 no. 8 april 2011Cleveland assoCiation of Paralegals, inC.

an affiliate member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar association

Member national Federation of Paralegal associations

Tuesday, April 26 5:15 pm - Cady Reporting Services 6th Annual Champagne & Chocolate event.Thursday, April 28 - Sunday, May 1 NFPA Joint Conference

Tuesday, May 3 CAP Board Meeting, Call-in.

Thursday, May 5 Book Club Meeting: The Faith Club: A Muslim, A Christian, A Jew - Three Women Search for Understanding. 7:00 pm at Panera Bread - Tiedeman Road at I-480.

IHello CAP!President’s Message by Christy a. Zeyer

It almost seemed like we were starting April with a new question. I know that April showers bring May flowers but what do April snows bring? Hopefully, by now the snow has subsided and sunny skies are here once again.

CAP is off to a great start with its Amazon link on our website. To date we have earned $24.08 from purchases. Please remember if you or someone you know is going to make a purchase from Amazon, click on the link for Amazon from our website www.capohio.org. A small percentage of sales purchased through our link go to CAP. We will continue to provide you with a monthly sales update.

Thank you to John Primm and Renee Everett for assisting with questions relating to ethics and student education which CAP has received via our website.

Thank you to Becky Kerstetter for representing CAP at the NFPA Region III - Spring Meeting in South Bend, Indiana from Friday, April 8, 2011 to Saturday, April 9, 2011. We look forward to hearing what Becky has to share when she returns.

The end of April will be a busy one. CADY’s 6th Annual Champagne Chocolate Event and the NFPA Joint Conference on Regulation, Leadership and PACE are both in the same week. I am looking forward to both of them. I hope to see you at one or both of the events.

We have heard questions from members regarding why they should attend the NFPA Joint Conference. Here are a few reasons for attending a NFPA meeting, conference or convention.

1. You are able to network with paralegals from across the nation.

2. You may forge new professional paralegal friendships.

3. It gives you a first-hand look at what your dues are paying for. As a CAP member, a portion of your dues are forwarded for your NFPA membership.

4. It provides you with the opportunity to meet the NFPA Board and Coordinators.

5. You will learn what the current status is for paralegal regulation.

(Continues on page 2)

by Christy A. Zeyer

Christy A. Zeyer is an OSBA Certified Paralegal at Hickman & Lowder Co., L.P.A.

She can be reached at [email protected]

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(Continued from page 1)

6. It can renew your excitement about being a paralegal professional.

7. You may be able to help another paralegal and/or paralegal association.

8. You may have a greater appreciation of being a paralegal in the State of Ohio.

9. You may walk away with additional knowledge which will enable you to lead CAP in the future.

10. If you do not step up to lead CAP, you may be inspired to get involved at the national level with the NFPA.

Thank you to Stacey Robinson, Andrea Zwegat, Becky Kerstetter, Gayle Absi, Gretchen Fleming, Heidi Smith, John Primm, Karen Jones and Susan Coker for all of their hard work in planning and assisting NFPA for the Joint Conference. Thank you to Cleveland’s own Karen Santagata for promoting Cleveland as the location for 2011 NFPA Joint Conference to the NFPA Board. If you are attending the Leadership Conference, you will get to see some of your CAP Board and Committee Chairs’ acting skills. You will have to attend to see what roles they will be playing.

Another exciting upcoming event is Ohio Paralegal Day which will be held on Monday, May 16th. CAP is expanding upon our celebration from last year and has scheduled a half-day afternoon seminar at the CMBA with a CAPpy Hour following at Café Sausalito. This event is a true team effort. We have asked for CLE Credit for the seminar and will let you know as soon as we have a response. The board has discussed this event and the seminar will be FREE for CAP members. Your board is discussing cost for non-members and a special prize which will be raffled to CAP members who bring a non-member with them.

12:30 p.m. - 1:30p.m. Karen SantagataEthical Situations for Paralegals

1:30 p.m. - 1:40 p.m. Break - Door Prize

1:40 p.m. - 3:10 p.m. Stacey Robinson Microsoft Office for the Legal Professional - Tips & Tricks to Make Your Work Easier

3:10 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.Break - Door Prize

3:20 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.Andrea ZwegatStress Management for Legal Professionals Using the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

5:00p.m. - 7:00 p.m.CAPpy Hour at Cafe Sausalito

Please RSVP to John Primm - [email protected]. Look for Becky Kerstetter’s article about Ohio Paralegal Day in the next CMBA Bar Journal.

Please continue to let your CAP Board and Committee know your thoughts and recommendations. Enjoy Spring!

President's Message

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BEditor's Message

By lindsey Kaliszewski, MBa, CP

By the time you read this, I should have a great tan and be back in the office after an exciting Western Caribbean cruise! We all need a break once in a while . . .

Remember that writing a newsletter article for CAP is a great way to expose yourself to the CAP community, and an excellent resume enhancer when you are looking for employment.

Please feel free to drop me a line by email or feel free to call me at the office at (216) 771-2600, if you would like to write a general article, have any ideas, or would like to be featured in the Member Profile section or if you would like to submit a problem or an answer to a problem to “Dear Paralegals”. In addition, don’t forget about our “Announcements” section. Feel free to share your exciting personal or professional news with CAP!

lindsey Kaliszewski is a certified paralegal and marketing coordi-nator with Ott and Associates, Co. LPA

in Cleveland. She can be reached at [email protected]

ANNUAL BUSINSS MEETING – JUNE 22, 2011 - IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON RUNNING FOR A BOARD OR COORDINATOR POSITION, YOUR NOMINATION FORMS ARE TO BE SUBMITTED BY MAY 18, 2011 TO

JENNIFER M. SYBYL

It's that time of year again, time to elect our board for the 2011 – 2012 term. To that end and in accordance with the By-laws of the Cleveland Association of Paralegals, please review the follow-ing forms on CAP’s website: http://bit.ly/euYP8t

1. Nomination for Candidacy - To be completed and returned by all persons seeking a position on the Board of The Cleveland Association of Paralegals

2. Nomination for Coordinator Candidacy - To be completed by those seeking a Coordinator position with The Cleveland Association of Paralegals.

3. A Sample Candidate Statement - Required to be submitted by all persons seeking a Board position.

Time is of the essence as the deadline of May 18, 2011 is fast approaching to submit a nomi-nation form and the election of officers at the Annual Meeting on June 22, 2011 is also close at hand. I encourage all of you to give serious thought to taking on a role on the board or as a coordinator. It is a rewarding experience and a way in which you can support the association that supports you in your profession.

Don't let questions you may have about roles or responsibilities keep you from considering a posi-tion. Please, don't hesitate to call or e-mail the current board, any of the coordinators or myself with your questions. We will be happy to assist you.

Jennifer M. Sybyl, Nominations Coordinator

Editor's Message

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OFugitive Safe Surrender Recognition Event

By Joanie shackleton

On April 7, 2011, I attended the awards ceremony held at the Justice Center to recognize all who were a part of this year’s Fugitive Safe Surrender Program, a national program that began in Cleveland that allowed those with outstanding warrants to turn themselves in safely. Peter Elliott, the US Marshal for the Northern District of Ohio, recognized judges, lawyers, court clerks, computer personnel, and others who made the FSS Program such a huge success.

Sam Miller, the real estate magnate, contributed $100,000 to this worthy cause, and made a humorous speech during the ceremony. Also identified were Bob Reed, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff, and a representative of Sherrod Brown’s office.

Due to the size of the audience, it was not possible for everyone to be personally recognized; certificates that were prepared in advance were available for pick-up after the ceremony. Although not specifically recognized, CAP was identified as part of the Bar Association contributions, and I stood to be recognized when those organizations were mentioned.

I was proud to have been a part of this successful program, which no doubt will become an even larger undertaking in the future. Hopefully, CAP will continue to be a part of this wonderful endeavor and, consequently, continue to make a positive contribution to the legal community in general.

Joanie Shackleton is the current Secretary/Parliamentarian

of CAP. She can be reached at [email protected]

US Marhsal Peter Elliott and Joanie Shackleton

Cuyahoga County Sheriff Bob Reed and Peter Elliott

Fugitive Safe Surrender

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2011 NFPA Joint ConferenceHello CAP Members!

This is just a reminder to remember to register for the upcoming NFPA Joint Conference (Regulation, Leadership & PACE). The Joint Conference is being held April 28 – May 1, 2011 in Cleveland, Ohio. Through CAP’s three-way membership program, you are already a member of NFPA and, therefore, you can attend all three conferences at no charge (your only costs would be for parking, if necessary, and if you choose to attend the NFPA social events planned for some of the evenings).

The Regulation Conference will provide you with knowledge and information about the cur-rent state of regulation and various efforts going on throughout the country on this topic. Additionally, staff from the Ohio State Bar Association will be presenting on Ohio’s very own efforts on regulation with the OSBA Exam.

The Leadership Conference is an excellent opportunity to hear from current leaders in the para-legal community and paralegal associations, as well as an excellent learning experience for future leaders of the Cleveland Association of Paralegals!

Remember to check with your employers as many of them may view the Conference sessions as a form of Professional Development.

The link below will take you to the NFPA website page which outlines each of the Conferences and the topics that will be covered:

http://paralegals.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=1119

The following link will take you directly to the registration form. Remember, even though there is no cost to attend the Joint Conference, it is still important to register so that the NFPA has a count for meals, breaks, materials, seating, etc:

https://www.paymyassociation.com/displayemailforms.cfm?SessionId=63D73E77-FAF5-370D-B3AA8B8DE972BC1D&emailformnbr=157780

Thank you –

Stacey RobinsonCAP Director of [email protected]

Annual NFPA Awards Nominations

Do you know of an outstanding paralegal and NFPA member who deserves special recognition for his or her achievements? The NFPA has issued its annual call for nominations for its 2011 awards, to be presented at this years' annual NFPA Con-vention and Policy meeting in Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Awards for both individuals and NFPA member associations are available in 8 categories, including the William R. Robie Leadership Award, the PACE Ambassador award, and the NFPA Paralegal of the year. The deadline for nominations is July 1st, 2011. For a full listing of the available awards and information on the nominations process, visit the NFPA's website at: http://paralegals.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=804.

From the NFPA

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DDear Paralegals: the NewsCAPsule Advice Column

Compiled by lindsey Kaliszewski, MBa, CP

"Do you know what your firm bills your rate at? What your billable hours are? Is there a certain percentage of that amount that you should be bringing home? I don’t recall if that was ever discussed in paralegal school. I have not looked on the NFPA site and/or others to see if there is a percentage anywhere. I know that there is overhead and you need to also include other non-economical benefits: like flextime, etc."

Responses:

“Yes, I am aware of what my firm bills my rate at. We charge higher for certified paralegals than non-credentialed parale-gals. We also get a print-out of our monthly hours, fees billed, and fees collected, which includes yearly totals. I don’t know about what percentage you should ‘bring home’, per se, but I like to know I am at least working to pay my own salary times two at least so that I am contributing to my firm.”

Next Month’s Advice Inquiry:

“What is the best way to combat the ‘minion’ view that is sometimes given to support staff? For example, there have been times when I have responded by telephone to opposing counsel because my supervising attorney is unavailable, and I have been told ‘I don’t know why you are even calling me, I need to speak to an attorney and you obviously cannot help me on this issue’. What is the polite response to that? So many times, I just want to scream ‘I probably know more about what is going on with this case anyways!’ Overall, I am still upset some clients or attorneys view paralegals/other staff as incapable just because we don’t have an “ESQ” after our name, and don’t know how to handle it without being rude or voicing the fact that I am upset."

If you have a problem you would like to submit to the membership for advice or would like to give advice for the current problem, please contact Lindsey A. Kaliszewski at: [email protected]

Dear Paralegals

lindsey Kaliszewski is a certified paralegal and marketing coordi-nator with Ott and Associates, Co. LPA

in Cleveland. She can be reached at [email protected]

Greet the Judges and GCsSave the Date - Thursday, May 19 - for the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association's 2nd Annual members-only event: Greet the Judges and GCs, bringing together our federal, state and local judges with Northeast Ohio's general counsel, corporate and in-house attorneys for an informal get-together with food and drink.

FREE FOR ALL MEMBERS OF THE CLEVELAND METRO BAR

This year's event will feature a special appearance by and thank you to SENATOR GEORGE VOINOVICH for his years of public service on behalf of Northeast Ohio.

Quick Details

Who: Free to all members

What: Greet the Judges & GCs -- Food & Drink, Casual Conversation

When: Thursday, May 19, 2011, 5-7 p.m.

Where: Cafe Sausalito, Galleria Mall, Cleveland, Ohio

Questions? Contact Rita Klein at the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association at [email protected] or 216-696-3525.

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T

W

Students' Corner

Students' Corner

By Jackie Crossland

The task of staying focused on the goal of becoming a Paralegal can sometimes be a daunting task. As a student, I heard several stories (both favorable and unfavorable) about the paralegal course instructors. How do you determine if any of these stories are true or not? Also, which Paralegal Program elective courses are interesting and useful? It is your responsi-bility as a student to decide if you are going to let these stories about instructors deter you, and which elective courses you are going to take (the Paralegal Program requires students to take two paralegal elective courses). I think that students should not listen to the stories that they hear about their instructors, and should just try to get the highest grade possible (hopefully an “A” or “B”) in the course. I had an instructor that I heard unfavorable stories about, and I was extremely worried about getting a low grade in the class (in the Tri-C Paralegal Program, if you get a “D” in the course, you have to retake it until you get a “C” or higher. You should not pay attention to what you hear, and just pay attention to everything that the instructor says in class, and ask questions if you don’t understand. I think that if you do these things, then the instructor will know that you are trying and making an effort to get a good grade in his/her class.

It is extremely important to stay on track with the courses that are taken, since many students take courses that are not needed, and do not apply to the required program course curriculum. I also attended a student workshop, in which this issue was discussed, and the speaker told us that many students take unnecessary courses that are recommended by their friends and other students, and do not meet regularly with a counselor or their program representative. I speak with the Paralegal Program Director at Tri-C on a regular basis, and know what courses I should take well in advance of the first date of enrollment. At Tri-C, online class enrollment starts earlier then in-person enrollment, and many courses fill up fast. Students should take the time and make the necessary arrangements to meet with a counselor or program representative at least once every semester, to avoid wasting time and money on classes that do not meet their program requirements. Students should also feel free to ask questions if they are unsure about which classes to take at enrollment time. In addition, if students are attending college part time, they need to find out which classes are offered in which semesters, so that the most important classes are taken first. Students must also make sure that they take the classes in the proper sequence, since many courses build on the material that was presented in the previous course. Also, some classes have course pre-requisites that must be met in order to sign up for them. If students do these things, then this will help them to stay focused on their goal of becoming a Paralegal.

CAP Coordinator Openings

We are looking for members who would like to volunteer for the following opening:

Marketing Coordinator•

If you are interested in getting more involved or would like to know more about the opening, please contact a Board Member. We hope that some new leaders will take the initiative and step up. You have a strong board to support you!

Jackie Crossland is a student at Cuyahoga Community

College. She can be reached at [email protected]

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WMonthly CAP Member Profile:

Welcome to the “Member Profile”, which is basically an autobiography by one of our CAP members. I hope that all of you will volunteer to write a little about yourself for out Member Profile section. We hope to include the following in each Member Profile:

- Education (School Attended and Education Level)- Certifications- Previous Employment- Interests- What made you decide to become a paralegal- Challenges in the Profession- What you hope to achieve in the future

This Month's Member Profile Is:

Katherine Klonowski

Firm: Reminger & Co., LPATitle: Paralegal, Workers' Compensation DivisionAddress: 1400 Midland Building 101 Prospect Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44115Phone: 216-687-1311 E-Mail: [email protected]

Profile:

This is my fourth year as a member of CAP, and I am in my fourth year in the profession as a paralegal. During this same time span, I have been employed by Reminger Co., L.P.A. in the Workers' Compensation Division. As a virtual newbie to the field, I find CAP as a great opportunity to learn more about this profession. I enjoy participating in as many CAP events as possible, and strive to get involved in more activities. I have met many great people who are members of CAP.

In particular, the Lunch and Learn Series offers a great way to learn more regarding particular practice groups. I enjoy the Book Club and CAPpy Hour for social events.

I am a graduate of Baldwin Wallace College with a major in Business Administration and a certificate in human resources. Prior to working as a paralegal, my core career experience included 20 years in the TPA industry, representing employers in Workers' Compensation matters. This experience provided the knowledge of the Ohio Workers’ Compensation rules and laws, and in turn, prepared me for a relatively smooth transition to the paralegal profession.

Monthly Member Profile

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CThe 2011 PACE® Ambassador's Conference

by susan draeger Coker, rP

PaCe ambassador

CAP members enjoy a unique opportunity!

The 2011 NFPA Joint Conference will be held right in our own backyard from April 28th to May 1st at the beauti-ful Hyatt Regency hotel in the Old Arcade located at 420 Superior Avenue. The event encompasses the Leadership, Regulation, and PACE Ambassador’s Conferences.

It’s important to note that despite the name, the PACE Ambassadors Conference is not just for PACE Ambassadors – any NFPA member may attend. Items for discussion will include PACE eligibility criteria, studying for the PACE Exam, RP credential renewals, ways to meet CLE requirements, and the new PCC Exam. The duties of the PACE Standards Committee and PCC Exam Committee will also be discussed and updates on the PCC exam will be provided. It’s a great chance to meet a number of RPs and get their tips and insights into preparing for PACE or the PCC – all without having to leave town!

The PACE Ambassadors Conference will run from 1:30 pm to 5 pm on April 30th and from 8:30 am to 12 pm on May 1st. I would strongly encourage anyone interested in either the PACE or PCC exams, becoming a PACE mentor, or even a future PACE Ambassador to attend those sessions. And for those who choose to attend, I would love to hear your thoughts (good, bad, or otherwise) on the conference and what you took away from it.

Happy Spring!

Susan Draeger Coker, RP, participated in the development of the current PACE® exam and authored the chapter on intellec-tual property in the PACE Study Manual. Ms. Coker is employed in the business litigation section of Ulmer & Berne LLP in Cleveland, Ohio. In addition to serving as PACE Ambassador for the Cleveland Association of Paralegals, she is a member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and NFPA. She may be reached at [email protected]

by Susan Draeger Coker, RP

Susan Draeger Coker is a paralegal in the business litigation section at Ulmer

&Berne, LLP. She can be reached at [email protected]

PACE Certification

PCCE Pilot Test RegistrationI am very pleased to announce that the Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE) Candidate Handbook and online registration for the Saturday, June 11, 2011 pilot test are now available at www.paralegals.org The pilot test will be held at 12 locations across the country. Seating at each test site is limited so if you are eligible and want to take advantage of the reduced fee, reg-ister early. The fee for the pilot test is $65. Please be sure to review the candidate handbook thoroughly before initiating the online registration.

The pilot test is a paper/pencil version of the exam and will be hand scored. Scores will be released by PES no later than August 1, 2011. Candidates who successfully pass the exam will earn the CORE Registered Paralegal (CRP) credential.

Suellen K. Honeychuck, RPNFPA Vice President and Director of Paralegal Certification

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Five Reasons Why Double is Better

By vicki voisin, aCP

A question was posed to me recently while I was doing one on one coaching with a paralegal who wanted tips to get her career off dead center and moving forward. She asked me:

"Vicki, do you think I should get state specific certification or take a certification exam offered by a national paralegal professional association?"

My answer? "Both!" Double is always better. Here are five reasons why you should double up on your certifications.

Credible. Certification typically consists of the "3 E's": Education, Experience and Exam. You are not able to take a certi-fication examination unless you meet certain criteria. It is a career-long commitment that demonstrates to your peers and your employers that you have mastered core principles and that you are dedicated to staying current in your profession.

Certification gives you expert status which translates to credibility. Having that on a state level is definitely a plus. You double your credibility when you take that expert status to the national level, showing advanced analytical abilities and writing skills, as well as a broad understanding of laws and procedures nationwide.

Marketable. Whether you're job hunting or job hopping, you are more valuable if you have doubled up on your certifica-tions. Think of it this way:

(a) almost everyone acquires a certificate or degree in paralegal studies prior to entering the profession; if everyone has a paralegal certificate, they have identical qualifications and are on a level playing field;

(b) state specific certification hikes you up a notch and gives you a leg up on someone with only their basic education;

(c) doubling up with your national certification puts you on top of the heap.

Portable. Your state specific certification will serve you well so long as you never move to another state. For instance, if you move from North Carolina or Ohio to Texas, you will be competing with paralegals who may already have that state's certification.

Since you will need all the ammunition you can muster to land a job in a place where virtually no one knows you, your very portable national certification will give you the credibility you need for employment in your new location.

Profitable. Salary surveys illustrate the value of your certification. If you're a paralegal with one credential, you will cer-tainly earn a higher salary than a paralegal with none. However, if you're a paralegal with double certifications, you are in a position to demand an even higher salary. In this case, certification makes both sense and cents.

Recognizable. Certification is a standard by which employers can judge the competency of a potential employee and the value of a current employee. You can be very proud of the letters displayed after your name. They demonstrate your advanced abilities, your depth of experience, and your knowledge. Double the letters translates to double the recognition of your advanced skills and knowledge.

A handful of states have state specific certification. There are different qualifications for taking each. Some require you to have up with national certification to qualify, others do not. Wherever you live, national certification is available and accessible.

(Continues on page 11)

Feature Article

Vicki Voisin, ACP is a paralegal at Running, Wise, and Ford, L.C.P. in Charlevoix, Michigan. She is

also a frequent writer and speaker on topics related to the paralegal profession.

She can be reached at: [email protected]

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(Continued from page 10)

How do you "double up" if you have no state certification available? Move on to advanced certification (NALA has 17 ACP areas) or work on some other industry certifications. For instance, if you work in insurance defense, a CRM (Certified Risk Manager) might be helpful. Do you work with employee benefits? You might look into a PHR (Professional in Human Resources).

There are also certifications in the computer and medical fields that could be beneficial. You will want to be sure that the certification you seek has value in your specialty area and enhances the scope of your work. The only other precaution is to be sure the certification is professionally managed and administered.

Do you want to move your career in the right direction? A single certification will do that. Double certification will make you more credible, marketable and noticeable. You will find it is both portable and profitable. Double certification will move you miles ahead. Double is definitely better!

Vicki Voisin, "The Paralegal Mentor," delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satis-faction 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 Paralegal Strategies and co-hosts The Paralegal Voice, a monthly podcast produced by Legal Talk Network. More information is available at http://www.paralegalmentor.com.

Upcoming Certification Dates/DeadlinesOSBA Certification Exam Application Deadline: March 30, 2011 - Deadline PassedTest Date: May 14, 2011

NALA (CLA/CP) Certification Exam Application Deadline: April 1, 2011 - Deadline PassedTest Date: May 1 - 31, 2011

PACE (RP) Certification Exam Application Deadline: None (Rolling applications)Test Date: Rolling (exam must be taken within 90 days of an approved application at Sylvan Learning Centers)

If you are taking one of these exams, Heidi Smith ([email protected]) is offering to organize study groups for future examinees. If you are looking for help with taking one of the above-referenced exams, please email Heidi, and she will assist with referring you to other exam-inees and to those who have already successfully completed the appropriate certification exam.

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www.capohio.org newsCAPsuleapril 2011

IReal Estate Law Corner

By lindsey a. Kaliszewski, MBa, CP

In Ohio, do you have to be licensed in order to sell real estate?

No. One may sell one’s own property without being licensed, otherwise, the person selling real estate must be licensed.

Can an attorney receive a “finder’s fee” for finding a buyer for a property if he/she is not a licensed real estate agent?

No. No unlicensed person may receive a commission, not even an attorney.

What are the requirements for obtaining a real estate license in Ohio?

Must be truthful, honest and have a good reputation;•

Must be at least 18 years old;•

Must be sponsored by a licensed Real Estate Broker; •

Must not have been convicted of a felony or crime of moral turpitude;•

Must not have violated any laws regarding real estate within the past two years as determined by a court of law or •violated any rules of the Ohio Division of Real Estate;

Must have a high school diploma or its equivalent as recognized by the Ohio Department of Education if you were •born after 1950;

Must complete education requirements of 40 hours of Real Estate Principles and Practices; 40 hours of Ohio Real Estate •Law, including instruction in civil rights, housing discrimination and desegregation problems; 20 hours in Real Estate Appraisal and 20 hours in Real Estate Finance.

Once these requirements have been met and an application has been submitted, a person will be notified that they are eligible to sit for the exam.

Real Estate Law Corner

lindsey Kaliszewski is a certified paralegal and marketing coordi-nator with Ott and Associates, Co. LPA

in Cleveland. She can be reached at [email protected]

NFPA 2011 ScholarshipThe National Federation of Paralegal Associations is happy to announce that it is now accepting applications for the 2011 Thomson Reuters' Scholarship. The scholarship application and more information are available at: http://paralegals.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=804.

The scholarships are $3,000 and $2,000, and include a stipend for the winners to travel to the 2011 Annual Convention to be personally recognized by NFPA and Thomson. The completed application and all materials must be postmarked by July 1, 2011.

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HVendor of the Month

Major legal services, llC

1. How long has your company been a member of CAP?

Since 1989.

2. What benefits does being a member of CAP offer you, or your company?

Membership in CAP helps us connect with members of the Northeast Ohio paralegal community who may be consider-ing a transition in their legal career. Some CAP members will also contact us for temp or direct-hire recuriting services on behalf of their employer.

3. What types of services do you provide?

Since 1989, we have worked with law firms and corporate legal departments throughout Northeast Ohio to assist them in recruiting candidates that meet their profile, which includes not only training, skills and experience, but also short and long-term personal and cultural compatablity. Although our job is not to find positions for candidates, if we believe a candidate might meet the needs of a client now, or possibly in the future, we will work with that candidate. All of our fees are paid by our clients, and there is no charge to candidates.

Major Legal also offers contract, or temporary, work for candidates entering the workforce, or who are in transition.

4. What sets your firm apart from other firms providing similar legal services?

Major Legal has worked in this market since 1989 and has great depth of contacts throughout the legal community. Our recruiters have been with us over a very long period and have long-standing relationships with many of Northeast Ohio firm and corporate legal recruiting principals. We offer fast and friendly service, and are very responsive to the needs of the candidates that we are able to work with for potential opportunities.

5. How does one of our members contact you to engage your services?

Registration is available from our website: http://www.majorlegalservices.com. The website also contains additional infor-mation regarding Major Legal, and valuable resource material for candidates who are seeking opportunities. Candidates may also send their resume to our director of recruiting, Deborah Peters, who will process these contacts, and assign a recruiter as appropriate. Her email address is [email protected].

The local telephone number for Major Legal Services is 216-579-9728, or toll-free 800-808-3097.

CAP NewsCongratulations to Jennifer Gallagher on her new position at Javitch, Block & Rathbone! Way to go, Jennifer!

Vendor of the Month

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Cady Reporting Green Tip

As the first Court Reporting firm in Cleveland to go green, Cady Reporting Services is very dedicated to helping the legal community adopt greener practices not only at our offices, but also our homes. The Green Book, by Elizabeth Rogers and Thomas Kostigen, brings up the excellent point of making environmentalism practical to our lives today. At Cady Report-ing we realize that none of us live in trees, or ride stationary bicycles to generate electricity for our homes. However, we can still be environmentally friendly while remaining consumers. There are practical solutions that are both easy to understand and accessible. Each month we will be bringing you one in the CAP newsletter. Some of these things you may already be doing if so, congratulations! If not, it’s food for thought.

Tip #8 - Eat fresh. If you have the option, choose fresh vegetables over canned or frozen ones. Freezing and canning fresh vegetables in the United States uses about 3 billion kilowatt-hours* of energy per year, which is enough power to light every light bulb in the state of New York for three years. When in season, fresh vegetables can also cost less than canned or frozen varieties.  

"A moment's insight is sometimes worth a life's experience"

~ Oliver Wendell Holmes ~

Cady Green Tip

CAP Friends and Family Night with the Lake County Captains

Thank you to Katherine Klonowksi for talking to the Lake County Captains and getting arrange-ments for a CAP night at the ballpark set in motion.

Please vote for the night that you would be able to attend. We will proceed with the date that receives the most votes. Please note that this event is open to Friends and Family, too.

The date(s) that you will be voting on are:

Saturday, July 9th at 7:00 p.m • - Fireworks - $9.00 Tickets

Monday, July 25th at 7:00 p.m. • – Buck Night* - $7.00 Tickets

Friday, July 29th at 7:00 p.m. • – Fireworks - $9.00 Tickets

Monday, August 8th at 7:00 p.m. • – Buck Night* - $7.00 Tickets

*Buck Night - $1 Hot dogs, fries, popcorn, onion rings, fountain sodas, 10 oz. drafts

Please go to doodle and cast your vote for the game(s) that you would be interested in attending. Thank you to Stacey Robinson for letting your board know about this free scheduling tool.

http://www.doodle.com/3ae53vnpuq696hhf

Please vote by Monday, April 25, 2011.

For more information about the Lake County Captains, please view their website: http://lake-county.captains.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t437

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Cleveland Association of Paralegals, Inc.Our 2010 - 2011

Sustaining/Vendor Members

Absi Legal Technology, LTD•

Cady Reporting Services•

Major Legal Services•

Mehler & Hagestrom•

National Corporate Research, Ltd.•

Progressive Casualty Insurance Company•

Visual Evidence / E-Discovery LLC•

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Cleveland assoCiationof Paralegals, inC.

An affiliate member of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association • Member National Federation of Paralegal Associations

c a p n e w s l e t t e r

All newsletter submissions, ideas, and comments should be sent to: Lindsey Kaliszewski at [email protected]

This is your monthly newsletter. We want to know what you, the mem-bers, would like to see each month. do you want more “how to” information? More personal interviews? More details on programs that have already taken place? More news from the national Federation of Paralegal associates? More news of what Cleveland-area paralegals are doing on a daily basis? Please call or email Ben Pogany with your sugges-tions or new items.

The deadline to submit materials for the May issue of the NewsCAPsule is May 5.

© 2011 Cleveland Association of Paralegals. All rights reserved. NewsCAPsule is the official publication of the Cleveland Association of Paralegals, Inc. Articles express the authors’ views and are not necessarily those of the Association. Paid advertisements appearing in the NewsCAPsule are not an endorsement of products or services.

m o n t h l y a d v e r t i s i n g r a t e s

Full Page $140 1/2 Page $105 1/4 Page $75 Business Card $60

presidentCHRISTY zEYER* (216) 861-0360 [email protected]

vice president/director of policyHEIDI SMITH*(216) [email protected]

national affairs (nfpa primary)BECKY R. KERSTETTER(216) [email protected]

national affairs (nfpa secondary)CHRISTY zEYER (216) 861-0360 [email protected]

director of operationsSTACEY ROBINSON*(216) [email protected]

secretary/parliamentarianJOANIE SHACKLETON*[email protected]

treasurer/scholarship fundRENEE EVERETT*(216) [email protected]

newsletter editorLINDSEY KALISzEWSKI(216) [email protected]

newsletter coordinatorBEN POGANY(440) [email protected]

job bank coordinatorBECKY R. KERSTETTER(216) [email protected]

probate coordinatorBONNIE TOMKO(216) 861-0360 [email protected]

education coordinatorJANICE KOEHLER(440) 341-0878

litigation coordinatorSTACEY ROBINSON(216) [email protected]

director of membershipCHRISTINE BUDDNER*(216) [email protected]

membership coordinatorBETH PFEIFFER(216) [email protected]

student membership coordinatorRENEE EVERETT(216) [email protected]

professional development directorCAROL TAYLOR*(216) [email protected]

board advisorBECKY R. KERSTETTER(216) [email protected]

technology coordinatorKAREN [email protected]

ethics coordinatorsKATHERINE KLONOWSKI(440) [email protected]

JOHN PRIMM(330) [email protected]

PaCe ambassadorSUSAN COKER(216) [email protected]

statewide alliance (primary)HEIDI SMITH(216) [email protected]

statewide alliance (secondary)STACEY ROBINSON(216) [email protected]

osBa liason coordinatorJOHN PRIMM

cmba liaisonsBETH PFEIFFERCHRISTINE BUDDNER

*Board Position