OCPA July Compendium 2012

Volume 33, Number 7 July 2012

Member of National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)

Your EducationEd u c a t i o n a l Conference: This year will be OCPA’s 26th Annual E d u c a t i o n a l Conference . In celebration of OCPA’s 35th Birthday we are lett ing ALL attendees in the Educational Conference for only $35.00, yep $35.00. The Conference will offer a total of 4.75 MCLE (2.25 of Ethics). The following areas of law will be covered at the Educational Conference:

Immigration Law, Presented by J. Anthony Smith, Esq.; Real Estate Law; “Real Estate Law and the Ins-and-Outs of Title Policies, Legal Descriptions, Public Land Survey System, and Subdivision Play”, Presented by Bruce Dannemeyer, Esq.; Litigation (Technology): “Navigating Deposition, Video a Exhibit Management,Discovery Through Trial”, Presented by Jeff Koller, Esq.; Bankruptcy “How Bankruptcy intersects with various aspects of our Lives: Family Law, Tax, Intentional Tort Judgments and Student Loans”, Presented by Renato Izquieta, Esq.; Labor Law, Presented by Sean Larsen, Esq.;Criminal Law: Criminal Procedure: Are we still utilizing those old Amendments?”, Presented by Guy Ormes, Esq.; Litigation (E-Discovery), Presented by Doug Hafford, VP Consulting at Afinety, Inc.; andEntertainment Law: “Everything you ever wanted to know about

Entertainment Law, but were too afraid to ask!”, Presented by Bill Grantham, Esq.

We will also have Sean Carter, Esq. returning as our morning “It’s not the Fruit, it’s the Root: Getting to the bottom of our Ethical Ills” and afternoon “Nice Paralegals Finish First” keynote speaker.

Sign up as soon as possible, as this event will sell out!

Lots of planning goes into this great event, come help us make this year’s conference better than ever. If you’re interested in helping out with this conference, please contact Kerry Swancutt at [email protected].

Scholarships: OCPA will be giving away 18 Scholarships in the amount of $750 each. Two of the scholarships will be awarded to Paralegals or Paralegal Students for reimbursement of paralegal education, seminars, meetings, membership or fees for certification (example CLA exam or preparation classes), or advanced certification (example: ACP). Check out our website for further details on how you can participate.

University of California, Irvine, Cerritos College, Fremont, Santa Ana College, Coastline Community College, Irvine Valley College, Fullerton College and Kensington College will each be given 2 scholarships in the amount of $750 each to give to two deserving

Disclaimer: The articles contained in this publication have been prepared for and are intended to provide information useful to members of the Orange County Paralegal Association (OCPA) and the legal professional community, at-large. The information presented is not to be taken as legal advice nor do the views represent a statement of OCPA policy.

President’s Message

Inside this Issue: President’s Message 1-2

Calendar & Events 3

Membership & Statistics 4

News & Events:

Annual OCPA

Education Conference 5-6

OCPA at OCFB 8

OCPA Scholarship 10-13

Articles:

Paralegal Salaries: What’s in

Your Wallet 7

Paralegal Student Gives

Foster Child a Day.... 9

NALA Update 15

OCPA Corporate Sponsors

Sustaining Members 16

OCPA Board 17

Volume 33, Number 7 July 2012

Member of National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)

student. Look for information from your school.

Orange County Food Bank: In addition, to collecting items at all of our General Meetings you can volunteer your time on at any of the 3 remaining Saturdays in 2012: July 14, September 15 and November 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to assist the OCFB with assembling food boxes for children and seniors at their d i s t r i b u t i o n center located at 11870 Monarch Street in Garden Grove. (See v o l u n t e e r s below.) If you are interested in participating in the volunteer activities, please contact OCPA’s Pro Bono/Community Services Chair, Cindy Mascio, ACP, CAS, at [email protected] or (714) 641-5100, ext. 1625.

NALA Conference: This year’s NALA Conference is in Omaha, Nebraska. Save the date – July 25th through July 28th and come celebrate NALA’s 37th Annual Meeting and Educational Institutes. . It will feature 7 institutes in the following areas:

Bankruptcy; e-Discovery; Essential Skills; Family Law; Personal Injury;Real Estate; and Member Exchange.

Further details to come.

Specialty Sections:

We have a couple great Section Meetings planned for you this month. On July 10 th the Bankruptcy Section with have Steven Fox, Esq. discussing “The Use and Mis-use of Exemptions and the Chapter 7 Means Test”.

Stanton T. Mathews with Stanton T. Mathews & Associates will present “Follow the Flow – Forming Up the Trial Box” at the July 19th Litigation Section Meeting. This meeting will be held at Gibson Dunn at 6:00 p.m.

All meeting flyers are now available on OCPA’s website www.ocparalegal.org

Volunteers: Would you like to volunteer and get more involved with the OCPA? Please contact me at [email protected]. Volunteering is a great way to meet your co-paralegals and networking.

- Hilary Martin, OCPA President

OCPA NeedsYour Help!

OCPA needs your help in locating the following Past Presidents of OCPA: Kimberly MillerSherrill Schroeder SmithN. Chris PrinceLinda KatoAnne HarperMary Jameson HellerSandra FrioScott MooreLinda McCown If you have any information regarding the current addresses for these past presidents, please contact Cindy Mascio at [email protected]. Thanks!

OCPACompendium July 2012

3

OCPA Calendar & Events

To learn more, simply visit the OCPA website at: www.ocparalegal.org

August ===

Date Time Title Location

8/1 6:00 pm Board Meeting Sarnoff/Veritext

8/2 6:00 pm Employment/Labor Section: “Internet and Social Media in the Workplace”

Nossaman LLP

8/15 6:00 pm Education Conf Planning Committee Sarnoff/Veritext

8/16 6:00 pm OCPA Vendor Appreciation Mixer TBD

Save the Date!OCPA 26th Annual Educational

Conference

Date: Saturday, September 8, 2012 Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Place: Radisson Hotel, Newport Beach

“Established 1977 – OCPA Celebrates 35 years of supporting & educating Paralegals! Who are we and what sets us apart?”

Please join our diverse legal community at this annual education opportunity. No matter your level of experience, come see how to enrich your career.

MCLE Credit Provided – 4.75 hours.

Speaker or Exhibitor Inquires? To learn more, please contact Conference Chair Kerry Swancutt at [email protected].

July


7/10 6:00 pm Bankruptcy Section: “The Use and Misuse of Exemptions and the Ch. 7 Means Test; Also, a Brief Look at Bankruptcy’s Schedule ‘I’”

TBD

7/14 8:30am Pro Bono: OCPA/OCFB Work Day OCFB

7/14 12:00pm Board Retreat TBD


7/19 6:00 pm Litigation Section: “Follow the Flow - Forming up the Trial Box”

Gibson Dunn

7/25- 7/28

NALA Educational Conference Omaha, Nebraska

September ===


9/5 6:00 pm Board Meeting Sarnoff/Veritext


9/8 8:30am OCPA Educational Conference UCI

9/15 8:30am Pro Bono: OCPA/OCFB Work Day OCFB

9/8 8:30am OCPA Educational Conference UCI


4

OCPA Membership & Statistics

Gurpreet SanghaKathleen ThomasSarine Sabounjian NigolianSamanta SantanaMelissa Nypert ShelleyGeorge BeanJennifer HuangJulian GusanEllygra DiLallaAva BautistaPenny MathisKelly RushlowLee SageKelley CharemAaron MetzlerCruz Sandoval MunekataWest Imboden Karen C. Verne Helene Halcrow Thila Menon Don Herman Daniel Ellison Jin Lee Faye Nakamoto Linda J. Wilkirson Cheryl McCrickard Kathy Casford Kristin McCord Tifaney Le Fore Bruce Franklin Catrina Snell-Rehder Laurel M. Chang

New Members

StatisticsVoting: 345Student: 157Associate: 70Sustaining: 7 Total: 579

Do you have an issue or topic of interest to share with your fellow OCPA members? Simply send your draft to the OCPA Compendium Editor Tracy Hermans at [email protected] for publication. Suggested topics range from professional development, technology and the law, research and writing, continuing education, and your thoughts on the profession. Articles will be reviewed and edited prior to publication.

Write for the OCPA Compendium!

July 2012

5

� �

2012 �Educational �Conference �Program � �(check �back �for �updated �speaker �and �topic �information) �

� �8:00 �a.m. � � �8:45 �a.m. � � Registration, �Continental �Breakfast, �Get �to �Know �your �Exhibitors � � �8:45 �a.m. � �9:00 �a.m. � � Welcome �by �OCPA �President �Hilary �Martin �& �Conf. �Chair �Kerry �Swancutt � � � �9:00 �a.m. � �10:15 �a.m. � � Morning �Ethics �MCLE �Keynote, �Announce �Scholarship �Winners �

It's �not �the �Fruit, �it's �the �Root: �Getting �to �the �bottom �of �our �Ethical �Ills �- �In �this �unique �legal �ethics �seminar, �acclaimed �legal �humorist �Sean �Carter �goes �beyond �the �do's �and �don'ts �of �the �Rules �of �Professional �Conduct �to �get �to �the �heart �of �the �matter �-- �the �common �mindsets �that �result �in �ethical �violations �in �the �first �place. �Employing �the �witty �one-liners �and �poignant �stories �that �have �made �him �a �favorite �presenter �at �bar �events �across �the �country, �Mr. �Carter �demonstrates �the �root �causes �of �our �ethical �ills. �Furthermore, �he �will �provide �tips �and �insights �on �how �to �heal �ourselves �from �these �mindsets �so �that �the �ethical �canons �become �guide �posts �and �not �obstacles �in �your �drive �to �become �successful �paralegals. �Presented �by �Sean �Carter, �Esq. �- �http://www.lawhumorist.com �

� �10:30 �a.m. � �11:00 �a.m. � � Morning �Break, �Get �to �Know �your �Exhibitors � � �11:15 �a.m. � �12:30 �p.m. � Morning �MCLE �Breakout �Sessions �

Immigration �Law � �Presented �by �J. �Anthony �Smith, �Esq. � �

Real �Estate �Law � � -and-Outs �of �Title �Policies, �Legal �Descriptions, � �Presented �by �Bruce �Dannemeyer, �Esq.

� � �Litigation �(Technology) � � ent �- �Discovery �

�Presented �by �Jeff �Koller, �Esq. � �Bankruptcy �Law �- �"How �Bankruptcy �intersects �with �various �aspects �of �our �Lives: �Family �Law, �Tax, �Intentional �Tort �Judgments �and �Students �Loans." �Presented �by �Renato �Izquieta, �Esq. �

� � �12:45 �p.m. � �3:00 �p.m. � Afternoon �Ethics �MCLE �Keynote, �Lunch, �35th �Anniversary �Presentation, �Get �to �Know �your �

Exhibitors �Game �Winner �and �Drawings � � �- �It's �been �said �that �nice �guys �finish �last. �And �while �that �might �be �

true �in �the �rough �and �tumble �arenas �of �politics, �professional �prize �fighting �and �marriage, �nothing �could �be �further �from �the �truth �in �the �practice �of �law. �In �this �hilarious �ethics �presentation, �legal �humorist �Sean �Carter �will �demonstrate �how �to �effectively �deal �with �demanding �clients, �stubborn �opposing �parties �and �irritating �partners �(as �if �there �are �any �other �kind); �and �to �do �so �in �a �way �that �best �serves �the �interests �of �all �involved. �Presented �by �Sean �Carter, �Esq. �- �http://www.lawhumorist.com �

� �3:15 �p.m. � �4:30 �p.m. � � Afternoon �MCLE �Breakout �Sessions �

Labor �Law �- �Presented �by �Sean �Larsen, �Esq. � �

Criminal �Law � � Criminal �Procedure: � �Are �we �still �utilizing �those �old �Amendments? �Presented �by �Guy �Ormes, �Esq. � �

� �Litigation �(E-Discovery) � �Presented �by �Doug �Hafford, �VP �Consulting �at �Afinety, �Inc. � �Entertainment �Law �- �"Everything �you �ever �wanted �to �know �about �Entertainment �Law, �but �were �too �afraid �to �ask!" �Presented �by �Bill �Grantham, �Esq. � �

OCPACompendium

6

� �

2012 �Educational �Conference �Program � �(check �back �for �updated �speaker �and �topic �information) �

� �8:00 �a.m. � � �8:45 �a.m. � � Registration, �Continental �Breakfast, �Get �to �Know �your �Exhibitors � � �8:45 �a.m. � �9:00 �a.m. � � Welcome �by �OCPA �President �Hilary �Martin �& �Conf. �Chair �Kerry �Swancutt � � � �9:00 �a.m. � �10:15 �a.m. � � Morning �Ethics �MCLE �Keynote, �Announce �Scholarship �Winners �

It's �not �the �Fruit, �it's �the �Root: �Getting �to �the �bottom �of �our �Ethical �Ills �- �In �this �unique �legal �ethics �seminar, �acclaimed �legal �humorist �Sean �Carter �goes �beyond �the �do's �and �don'ts �of �the �Rules �of �Professional �Conduct �to �get �to �the �heart �of �the �matter �-- �the �common �mindsets �that �result �in �ethical �violations �in �the �first �place. �Employing �the �witty �one-liners �and �poignant �stories �that �have �made �him �a �favorite �presenter �at �bar �events �across �the �country, �Mr. �Carter �demonstrates �the �root �causes �of �our �ethical �ills. �Furthermore, �he �will �provide �tips �and �insights �on �how �to �heal �ourselves �from �these �mindsets �so �that �the �ethical �canons �become �guide �posts �and �not �obstacles �in �your �drive �to �become �successful �paralegals. �Presented �by �Sean �Carter, �Esq. �- �http://www.lawhumorist.com �

� �10:30 �a.m. � �11:00 �a.m. � � Morning �Break, �Get �to �Know �your �Exhibitors � � �11:15 �a.m. � �12:30 �p.m. � Morning �MCLE �Breakout �Sessions �

Immigration �Law � �Presented �by �J. �Anthony �Smith, �Esq. � �

Real �Estate �Law � � -and-Outs �of �Title �Policies, �Legal �Descriptions, � �Presented �by �Bruce �Dannemeyer, �Esq.

� � �Litigation �(Technology) � � ent �- �Discovery �

�Presented �by �Jeff �Koller, �Esq. � �Bankruptcy �Law �- �"How �Bankruptcy �intersects �with �various �aspects �of �our �Lives: �Family �Law, �Tax, �Intentional �Tort �Judgments �and �Students �Loans." �Presented �by �Renato �Izquieta, �Esq. �

� � �12:45 �p.m. � �3:00 �p.m. � Afternoon �Ethics �MCLE �Keynote, �Lunch, �35th �Anniversary �Presentation, �Get �to �Know �your �

Exhibitors �Game �Winner �and �Drawings � � �- �It's �been �said �that �nice �guys �finish �last. �And �while �that �might �be �

true �in �the �rough �and �tumble �arenas �of �politics, �professional �prize �fighting �and �marriage, �nothing �could �be �further �from �the �truth �in �the �practice �of �law. �In �this �hilarious �ethics �presentation, �legal �humorist �Sean �Carter �will �demonstrate �how �to �effectively �deal �with �demanding �clients, �stubborn �opposing �parties �and �irritating �partners �(as �if �there �are �any �other �kind); �and �to �do �so �in �a �way �that �best �serves �the �interests �of �all �involved. �Presented �by �Sean �Carter, �Esq. �- �http://www.lawhumorist.com �

� �3:15 �p.m. � �4:30 �p.m. � � Afternoon �MCLE �Breakout �Sessions �

Labor �Law �- �Presented �by �Sean �Larsen, �Esq. � �

Criminal �Law � � Criminal �Procedure: � �Are �we �still �utilizing �those �old �Amendments? �Presented �by �Guy �Ormes, �Esq. � �

� �Litigation �(E-Discovery) � �Presented �by �Doug �Hafford, �VP �Consulting �at �Afinety, �Inc. � �Entertainment �Law �- �"Everything �you �ever �wanted �to �know �about �Entertainment �Law, �but �were �too �afraid �to �ask!" �Presented �by �Bill �Grantham, �Esq. � �

July 2012

7

Would you pass up a raise? I’m sure the answer is ‘No!’ If you aren’t taking advantage of benefits offered by your employer, though, you may be passing up a big pay hike.Why should you be interested in those benefits? Some will result in a tax savings to you. Others will have a positive impact on your future, including your ability to transfer to a different practice area or department (which could result in an increase in salary) and the funds you will have on hand when you retire. Some will improve your quality of life. Here are a few possibilities you’ll want to check for:Health Insurance. This is a number one priority. Be sure to enroll your first day on the job.401(k) Plan. If your employer offers a 401(k) plan, be sure to enroll and make regular contributions, regardless of your employer’s contributions. There are tax benefits. For many of us, these funds and our Social Security benefits will be our only retirement income. The Department of Labor requires that if an employer has a 401(k) Plan, it must be offered to you once you qualify for it. Don’t let your employer ‘forget’ to offer it to you.Section 125 Plan. A Section 125 plan provides tax savings by reducing employee medical premiums from gross salary prior to calculation of federal income and Social Security taxes. This is one I take full advantage of. It’s difficult to predict your total expenses for the coming year (and you are stuck with your prediction, even if you didn’t calculate having to have a root canal!) but it’s still worth doing.Paid Time Off. Many employers have a

‘use it or lose it’ policy. Don’t give up that time! Even if you don’t lose it, do use your vacation and personal days (whatever it’s called where you work) because the break will do wonders for your attitude and mental health.College Tuition. This is another gimme. Don’t delay! Never pass up an opportunity to improve your skills and increase your knowledge. If you can get tuition reimbursement, be sure to go for that degree. Having it may mean you’ll be able to advance within the firm or the company. It may mean that you can get a better job with a higher salary somewhere else. Without it, you may be stuck where you are forever. And don’t tell me it’s too late to start your higher education adventure. The years will pass whether you do it or not.Certifications. Passing a certification examination doesn’t always result in a higher salary, but it never hurts to have it. In some cases, you absolutely cannot advance without it. The certification will demonstrate your discipline, your level of knowledge, your professionalism, and your credibility. There are other certifications besides those just for paralegal, such as the CPCU (Certified Property Casualty Underwriter) and CRM (Certified Risk Manager).Professional Association Memberships. Even if you don’t anticipate being an ‘active’ member (and I do encourage you to take that route), this is a great way to stay on top of what’s happening in your profession. You’ll have networking opportunities, as well as opportunities for continuing education.Continuing Education. Again, never pass up a chance to upgrade your skills and expand your knowledge. Perhaps a course isn’t exactly in line with what you do, but you never know where your life will take you and what you’ll be working on down the road. You may work in bankruptcy right now, but IP may be in your future.Publications and Books. Will your employer pay for subscriptions to professional journals? How about books for your practice area?Notary Public Commission. This is

another ‘no brainer.’ You probably need this in your present employment and it ‘travels’ with you if you move on.Gym Membership. Healthy employees are happier and more productive. You can find time in your day to get in some exercise...especially if your employer is paying for the gym membership.Equipment: Will your employer pay for your cell phone plan? A Smart Phone? An iPad? A laptop? Don’t pass those up!Your challenge: Know your benefits package inside and out. Sit down with the person in charge of benefits where you work and make sure you understand everything that’s available to you. Find out what steps you have to take for each one, how you enroll, get approval, get reimbursed, etc. If you’re taking college courses or attending continuing education programs, be sure to provide a report for your personnel file and keep a copy so that you will have the information for your next salary review. Your benefits can add up to more dollars in your pocket. You don’t want to miss out on that! ==========================© 2011-12 Vicki Voisin, Inc.

Vicki Voisin, “The Paralegal Mentor”, is the co-author of The Professional Paralegal: A Guide to Finding a Job and Career Success. She delivers simple strategies for paralegals and other professionals to create success and satisfaction by setting goals and determining the direction they will take their careers.

Vicki spotlights resources, organizational tips, ethics issues, and other areas of continuing education to help paralegals and others reach their full potential. She publishes Paralegal Strategies, a weekly e-newsletter for paralegals, and co-hosts The Paralegal Voice, a monthly podcast produced by Legal Talk Network.More information is available at www.paralegalmentor.com where subscribers receive Vicki’s 151 Tips for Your Career Success.

Paralegal Salaries: What’s Really in Your Wallet?

OCPACompendium

8

OCPA in the Community

OCPA members volunteering at Orange County Second Harvest Food Bank on July 14, 2012

July 2012

9

Taking the Extra Step:

Four-year-old Ty Collins has been with his parents since birth, but this Thanksgiving will be different.Stacy and Virgil Collins of East Naples adopted the boy, Virgil’s nephew, during an open adoption ceremony last week in Collier Circuit Court.“He doesn’t know anything else,” Stacy Collins, 29, said of their family. “To me and Virgil, we know it’s different. Our family is finally complete. We have a lot to be thankful for.”Together for more than 10 years and married for three, the couple is having Thanksgiving dinner at her parents’ Marco Island home with Ty; his 4-year-old brother, Dariece; 6-year-old sister, Jereka; their aunt and two uncles.“If anybody has the opportunity to give a kid a chance by adopting, it’s a sacrifice, but worth it,” 29-year-old Virgil Collins said. “It’s all about opening your heart and your home. The state will help you out financially — and the benefits are rewarding.“It gives you more of a feeling of a family and they feel that they’re accepted,” he said of enabling children to leave foster care.The Collinses illustrate the changing face of the typical American family.According to the 2010 Census, 4 percent of children don’t live with either parent. Of those 3 million kids, about 55 percent live with grandparents, 21 percent with other relatives and 24 percent with foster families or people who aren’t relatives.Statewide, more families are adopting relatives.“In the past, foster parents had adopted about 40 percent of our kids and 35 percent went to relatives,” said Erin Gillespie, spokeswoman for the state Department of Children and Families, adding that the rest went to unrelated people and families who saw foster children they wanted to adopt online.“Now that has switched and about 30 percent go to foster families and 40 to 45 percent are with relatives,” Gillespie said. “Relative placement is the best placement for a child, if there is an appropriate family member to take

care of them.”Southwest Florida is heading that way.This fiscal year, 41 percent involved relatives, 46 percent foster parents and the rest went to unrelated people and families desiring to adopt children they saw online, said Aimee McLaughlin, spokeswoman for the Children’s Network of Florida.A 2008 federal act requires states to give notice to relatives within 30 days of a child’s removal from a parent.When Ty’s three siblings were taken away from his mother in Port Charlotte seven years ago due to substance abuse, the Collinses weren’t contacted. With Ty, however, the 2008 act was in place.Stacy Collins was nearly nine months pregnant with Dariece when her husband told her Ty was being taken from his mother. They agreed to foster him.“He was born at 11:40 p.m. on May 13 and that’s my husband’s birthday. And they look identical,” she said.Ty, who has olive skin like his father and sister, has big brown eyes ringed by thick eyelashes and brows. Thick brown, bouncy ringlets frame his face.Six months ago, Ty’s father called to say Florida wanted him to pay child support, although his parental rights were terminated. That screwup pushed the couple to adopt, ensuring he’d remain with the only family he knew.As Virgil Collins held his son Friday, Ty sucked his thumb, lightly tracing his finger along his father’s jaw line as Collier Circuit Judge Elizabeth Krier made the adoption final. As the couple walked out, Stacy Collins kissed her son, holding back tears.Ty’s sister, now 14, lives in Pennsylvania; a brother and sister were adopted by families in Port Charlotte, while two brothers live in Immokalee and Fort Myers.“I tell Ty ‘You’re such a lucky boy. You have brothers and sisters everywhere. Some day, you’ll know them all,’ ” Stacy Collins said this week as she made dinner in their three-bedroom apartment.The couple, whose wedding date is tattooed on their fingers, met when

Virgil Collins came to Florida following high school graduation in Pennsylvania.For eight years, he’s worked for South Florida Plumbing. She attends Edison State College, where she’s working on a paralegal degree. She intends to work in the adoption field and possibly become a lawyer.“In the short term, I want to become a paralegal and help children find permanent, forever homes,” she said.For two years, she volunteered as a guardian ad litem, representing foster children’s rights in the legal system, but couldn’t continue due to her schedule.“It made me aware of the enormity of what foster children face each day,” she said of fostering Ty and working as a guardian ad litem.Virgil Collins was brought up by relatives, so to him: “You don’t have to have your two parents. You just need to have one person who loves you.”Ty is a boy of few words. “No” is a favorite.He loves sports, swims like a fish, and is protective of his bigger brother. He likes coloring and fishing, but prefers to eat fish sticks.“Not the stinky fish,” he explained.“Playing” is his favorite school activity.Ty’s birth mother, known as “Aunt Camille,” can watch him grow up on Facebook, where Stacy Collins has set up non-public pages.“I think everybody should consider adoption,” Stacy Collins said. “If everyone with a good heart could open their homes to a child, even for a little while, it would make this a better world.”For information about adopting foster children, go to www.adoptflorida.org or check Twitter at@ExploreAdoption.

Source: NaplesNews.com

About the Author: Jeannie S. Johnston has been a Paralegal for over 18 years, has spoken at National Paralegal Conferences and is the Founder and CEO of Paralegal Gateway, Inc. a/k/a www.ParalegalGateway.com – the world’s oldest and largest online Paralegal portal on the world wide web.

Paralegal Student Gives Foster Child a Day of Thanks

OCPACompendium

10

ANNOUNCEMENTOCPA SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST

TO: Paralegal Students and Working or Unemployed Paralegals

SCHOLARSHIP PURPOSE: Two Scholarships, valued at $750, will be awarded to Paralegals or Paralegal Students for reimbursement of paralegal education, seminars, meetings, memberships or fees for certifications (example, the CLA exam or preparation classes), or advanced certification (example: ACP). Answers to an Essay Question will be used to determine the Winners!

APPLICANT QUALIFICATIONS: (Besides OCPA Membership - 2 of the following 3 qualifications)

• Enrolled in Paralegal class currently or have taken 4 units applicable to a Paralegal Certificate in the past three years.

• Work, or have held a position as a Paralegal within the past three years. • Live, work or attend Paralegal classes in Orange County.

TO APPLY: Complete the Qualification Sheet and attach your essay answer on separate sheets without your identifying information. While your Essay should provide truthful facts and answers, omit details that would specifically identify you, as the contest judges are to impartially review the Essay, not the writer. Submit your Qualification Sheet and Essay before the Due Date of August 1, 2012 to Scholarship Chairman, at [email protected] or via fax to Maria Conzelman, CP, Scholarship Chairman, OCPA at (949) 260-0972.

ESSAY JUDGING CRITERIA: Judges will consider equally: (1) Did the response address all of the questions; (2) Ethical values reflected in the responses; (3) Writing and grammar skills; (4) Basic understanding of Bus. & Prof. Code § 6450; (5) Following instructions; and (6) Quality of the responses.

ESSAY TOPIC: (Submit a 1-to-3-page typed essay including all of the following points) • Discuss your understanding of the paralegal’s role in the California legal system

and document your source(s).• Discuss your educational and experience program path to be employed or

advance as a paralegal. (From your own personal status (as student, employed paralegal, etc.) Use examples of skills that contribute to that path.

• Explain how at least one of the Canons of the NALA Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility is important in everyday paralegal work. State which Canon you are discussing. [See attached excerpt from NALA’s Code.]

July 2012

11

[ATTACH THIS QUALIFICATION SHEET TO YOUR ESSAY.]

OCPACompendium

12

• List or diagram and write an explanation of what steps you would take if your attorney asked you to “pre-review this Summons and Complaint package for me.”

OCPA SCHOLARSHIPQualification Sheet

Name: _________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________

Telephone for notification: _____________ Is this a cell phone? ___

Member of OCPA? _______ If Yes, Status is: _____________ (Student) (Associate) (Full Member)

Member of any other Paralegal Organization? __________________

Explain how you meet the Applicant Qualifications: ______________

How might you use the scholarship benefit? ____________________

Verification: Please sign below to verify that you wrote and prepared your essay answers solely by yourself without assistance from others.

Signature: _______________________________Date___________

July 2012

13

EXCERPT FROMNALA CODE OF ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Canons of Ethics set forth hereafter are adopted by the National Association of Legal Assistants, Inc. as a general guide intended to aid paralegals and attorneys. The enumeration of these rules does not mean there are not others of equal importance although not specifically mentioned. Court rules, agency rules and statutes must be taken into consideration when interpreting the canons.

Canon 1. A paralegal must not perform any of the duties that attorneys only may perform nor take any action that attorneys may not take.

Canon 2. A paralegal may perform any task which is properly delegated and supervised by an attorney, as long as the attorney is ultimately responsible to the client, maintains a direct relationship with the client, and assumes professional responsibility for the work product.

Canon 3. A paralegal must not: (a) engage in, encourage, or contribute to any act which could constitute the unauthorized practice of law; and (b) establish attorney-client relationships, set fees, give legal opinions or advice or represent a client before a court or agency unless so authorized by that court or agency; and (c) engage in conduct or take any action which would assist or involve the attorney in a violation of professional ethics or give the appearance of professional impropriety.

Canon 4. A paralegal must use discretion and professional judgment commensurate with knowledge and experience but must not render independent legal judgment in place of an attorney. The services of an attorney are essential in the public interest whenever such legal judgment is required.

Canon 5. A paralegal must disclose his or her status as a paralegal at the outset of any professional relationship with a client, attorney, a court or administrative agency or personnel thereof, or a member of the general public. A paralegal must act prudently in determining the extent to which a client may be assisted without the presence of an attorney.

…

© Copyright 2007 NALASource: http://www.nala.org/code.htm

OCPACompendium

14

July 2012

15

NALA July UpdateNALA’s 37th A n n u a l Meeting and E d u c a t i o n a l InstitutesNALA’s Annual Meeting and E d u c a t i o n a l

Institutes is just around the corner! You still have time to register! See www.NALA.org or www.ocparalegal.org for more details. I’m sure that I will have lots to report when I get back.

NALA Making a Difference RecognitionNALA recognizes outstanding achievements of a current NALA member or a NALA Affiliated Association who has made a difference in the paralegal profession or in their communities. This recognition is designed to inspire and motivate, as well as celebrate who paralegals are and what paralegals have accomplished. The nominee must be either a current NALA member in good standing or a current NALA affiliated association. Current NALA members who are Board Members, Committee Members, and Chairs are ineligible. You can submit a nomination at any time of the year. Please contact me if you know someone deserving this recognition and I will be happy to help you get your nomination submitted. My email is [email protected].

NALA President Featured on the Paralegal Voice, Legal Talk NetworkDownload link: http://legaltalknetwork.com/podcasts/paralegal-voice/NALA President Karen McGee, ACP, was a featured guest on The Paralegal Voice recently, discussing the Six Thinking Hats method as a leadership tool. Edward De Bono’s, Six Thinking Hats, also known as parallel thinking, is

a fun method used in NALA’s year-long leadership webinars for those involved in state and local affiliated associations. On The Paralegal Voice, co-host Vicki Voisin, ACP, welcomes Karen McGee, ACP, President of NALA, as they spotlight De Bono’s method of thinking and share some important tools paralegals can use to facilitate open discussions in a meeting or work situation.

Cengage Announces Scholarship Recipients Delmar, Cengage Learning is proud to announce the two graduating paralegal students who have been selected to receive the first annual NALA Certified Paralegal Scholarship Award. Julie Hanson, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH Nominated by: Kathleen Reed, Director of Paralegal Studies Caleb Worley, Mt. San Jacinto College, Menifee, CA Nominated by: Laurie Richards, Legal Assistant Program Coordinator

This NALA Certified Paralegal Scholarship Award from Delmar, Cengage Learning is meant to recognize students who excel in their academic paralegal studies, have strong professional leadership, and plan to take the Certified Paralegal Exam within 9 months. An award selection committee consisting of paralegal educators and program directors ranked several nominees based on the following criteria: references, achievements, coursework, leadership and professional goals. These recipients distinguished themselves with their dedication not only to their studies, but to the ultimate goal of passing the Certified Paralegal Exam and excelling in the paralegal profession overall. They’ve demonstrated a focused maturity, ethical values, and creative problem solving. They have a strong work ethic and take initiative in and beyond the classroom. In addition

to the application fee to be admitted to the NALA Certified Paralegal program, the two scholarship award recipients will also receive the Certified Paralegal Review Manual and the CLA/CP Study Guide and Mock Examination, both published by Delmar, Cengage Learning.Cengage Learning is a leading provider of innovative teaching, learning and research solutions for the academic, professional and library markets. The company’s products and services are designed to foster academic excellence and professional development, increase student engagement and improve learning outcome. For more information on Cengage Learning please visit www.cengage.com/community/paralegal.

Facts & Findings-The Magazine for ParalegalsIf you are not familiar with this magazine published by NALA, you should make an effort to do so. Far from the association newsletter format, this bi-monthly magazine provides up to date educational articles focused on various practice areas of law, and breaking news. If you are serious about your career, and not already a NALA member, you should subscribe to this journal. A special “Career Chronicle” issue of Facts & Findings is published each January. I truly look forward to finding this magazine in my mail box. The articles are always interesting and relevant.

I hope you are all enjoying the lazy days of summer. -- Maria

Till next month Maria Conzelman, CP

NALA is the leading paralegal association in the US. Its mission is to provide continuing education and professional development programs to all paralegals.


16

OCPA Corporate Sponsors

OCPA Sustaining Members


17

OCPA 2012 Board of Directors

Phot

o Co

urte

sy o

f the

Om

aha

Conv

entio

n an

d Vi

sitor

s Bu

reau

1516 S. Boston Ave., Ste. 200 • Tulsa, OK 74119www.nala.org

Visit the NALA Website for more information.

1516 South Boston Ave., Suite 200 • Tulsa, OK 74119 • 918.587.6828 • www.nala.org

THE ASSOCIATION OFLEGAL ASSISTANTS•PARALEGALS

37TH ANNUAL MEETING & EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTESJULY 25–28 • OMAHA, NE


18

Compendium // July 2012 // Volume 33 // Number 7

Committed to Excellence through Education, Certification and Ethical Responsibility

Publisher: Orange County Bar Association

Editorial Team: Tracy Hermans, Dawn Martin, Karlene Miller, Krystal Pazanti, Liz Spinazze,

Tamira Stewart

The Compendium is the official publication of the Orange County Paralegal Association

(OCPA). P.O. Box 8512, Newport Beach, CA 92658

This subscription is provided as a member benefit of OCPA. For member information,

please visit www.ocparalegal.org. © 2012 Orange County Paralegal Association

Advertising Inquiries Only: Hilary Martin, [email protected]

Documents

OCPA July Compendium 2012