November 2014 Lexicon - West Texas Paralegal Association

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November 2014 Issue
WTPA’s 2014
Paralegal of the Year
Mary Helen Valdez
Mary Helen has been a foundational member of WTPA for almost 30 years. She became
a Life Member in 2013. She served as Second Vice-President in 1990, 2010 and 2012,
and also served on numerous committees.
Mary Helen has worked for prominent attorneys in Lubbock, including Buddy Maner, Johnny Splawn, and
Jim Killion. She first started working for Maner and Splawn in 1969 as a legal secretary, but after a few
years, Mr. Maner promoted her to the position of legal assistant.
Mary Helen epitomizes the paralegal profession and actively promotes the profession. It is
because of this that she was unanimously voted as this year’s recipient of the Paralegal of the
Year Award. We wholly believe that Mary Helen is very deserving of this award for her many
years of support and participation in the WTPA and in the paralegal profession.
Send Mary Helen Congratulations Here!
WTPA’s 2014
Officer Induction
President - Patricia Wanjura
President Elect - Cynthia Martinez
First Vice President - Elma Moreno
Second Vice President - Andrea Darland
Secretary - Lola Smith-Gentry
Treasurer - Sylvia Juarez
NALA Liaison - Georgia Seeley
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Patricia Wanjura, CP
Underwood Law Firm
[email protected]
I want to first thank all the 2014-2015 WTPA Officers for agreeing to serve
this year. All of you ladies are such a talented group and I am honored
that you have allowed me to be President. I hope that we can make this a
great year and we can come up with new ideas to get WTPA’s name out to
other paralegals and attorneys. I believe this organization has a lot to offer and know there
are still many legal professionals in Lubbock that do not know who we are. If you have
any ideas on what we can do to get our name out into the legal community I am open to
any suggestions, comments or criticism.
Cynthia J. Martinez, PP, PLS
Durbin & Associates
[email protected]
No Report
Andrea Darland
McWhorter, Cobb & Johnson
[email protected]
Membership Meeting
Date: November 5, 2014
Time: 5:45 p.m.
Location: Rosa’s Café, 3115 50th St.
1 Hour Free CLE presented by Kayla R. Wimberley, Esq.
Social Media and the Ethical Ramifications
Mrs. Wimberley was raised in Lubbock, is a graduate of Coronado High School and Lubbock Christian University. She has served as intern for the LCU General Counsel and as law clerk for the Honorable Larry “Rusty”
Ladd. Mrs. Wimberley also worked as staff editor and Executive Symposium Editor for the Estate Planning and
Community Property Law Journal at the Texas Tech School of Law. During her time in these positions, Mrs.
Wimberley gained immense experience in the areas of Criminal Law, Family Law, Estate Planning,
and Probate. With a heart for West Texas and the Lubbock Community, Mrs. Wimberley is a zealous advocate
who will use her passion for helping others to advise and counsel you and your family on your legal options.
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Elma Moreno
Texas Tech University School of Law
806-834-8793
[email protected]
As a reminder, membership dues and renewals were due on or before September 3, 2014. If
you have not had the opportunity to renew your membership, I will keep your name on our
distribution list until the end of the year.
To date, we have a total of 15 Active Members, 5 retired Life Members, and 1 Associate
Member who have either renewed or become new members! We also have a total of 6
Sustaining Members which have been a great asset to the association. We would love to
increase our membership within the next few months! Remember dues are only $20 a year for
now!!
As a reminder, as stated in our bylaws, “The objectives and purposes of this Association shall
be to establish good fellowship among Association members, NALA, the Paralegal Division of
the State Bar of Texas, and members of the legal community; to encourage a high order of
ethical and professional attainment; to further education among members of the profession; to
cooperate with bar associations; and to support and carry out the programs, purposes, aims
and goals of NALA.”
We have had some wonderful CLE during the past years with great attendance, provided some
opportunities to networking during “Mix and Mingle” events, and continue to have and build
friendships with many members! In addition, during this past year we had a great presence at
the NALA convention and the SBOT Paralegal Division meetings.
As membership chair, I encourage you to join a great group of leaders within the legal
profession and take advantage of the wisdom and knowledge available to each and everyone by
networking and attending upcoming meetings and CLE opportunities!
Hope to receive your renewal forms - which are attached for your convenience - AND to see
you at the meeting in November!
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Lola Smith-Gentry, ACP
Hund, Krier, Wilkerson
& Wright, LLP
806-783-8700 x. 229
Minutes of the Fifth Bi-Monthly Membership Meeting
September 6, 2014
OPENING: Following the Fall Seminar held at the Texas Tech University Law School, the Fifth Bi-Monthly
Membership meeting of the West Texas Paralegal Association (“WTPA”) was called to order at 1:00 p.m. by
President Lola Smith-Gentry.
ATTENDANCE AT AGENDA MEETING: Members Lola Smith-Gentry, Elma Moreno, Debbie Aguirre,
Deirdre Trotter, Sylvia Juarez, Georgia Seeley, Patricia Wanjura, Cindy Martinez and Jan Bufkin. A quorum
was present.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS/REPORTS:
Treasurer’s Report - The Treasurer’s Report through July 31 was provided to members via email.
Approval of Minutes of May Bi-Monthly Meeting - as published in the Lexicon.
Donation of Television - County is still shopping for the television.
Reports - as published in the Lexicon.
Next Board Meeting - TBA by Patricia Wanjura.
Paralegal Day - To be decided at next board meeting by new EC board.
CONSENT AGENDA WAS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED AND ADOPTED.
NEW BUSINESS:
Approval of new members. DeLandrea Rule with Bustos Law Firm; Andrea Grififn Darland with McWhorter,
Cobb & Johnson; Irma Shepler with TTU School of Law Clinical Programs; and Melissa Tobias have each met
the requirements.
MOTION: Elma Moreno moved that the above listed be accepted as new members of WTPA.
SECOND: Sharon Whirley.
The Motion is adopted.
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Lola Smith-Gentry, ACP
Hund, Krier, Wilkerson
& Wright, LLP
806-783-8700 x. 229
Continued...
Minutes of the Fifth Bi-Monthly Membership Meeting
September 6, 2014
Sustaining Member.
MOTION: Jan Bufkin moved that Deirdre Trotter be allowed to become a sustaining member in
exchange for her continuation as administrator on our web page.
SECOND: Sylvia Juarez.
The Motion is adopted.
Paralegal Day. It has been suggested that WTPA and LLPA jointly request recognition by the City Council for
Paralegal Day. Upon approval by LLPA and WTPA, one letter would be written requesting recognition.
MOTION: Sharon Whirley moved that WTPA jointly with LLPA in one letter request the Lubbock City
Council to recognize Paralegal Day.
SECOND: Georgia Seeley.
The Motion is adopted.
Elections for new officers.
Nominees are as follows:
President Elect:
Cynthia Martinez
Secretary:
Lola Smith-Gentry
First VP:
Nominations from the floor
Treasurer:
Sylvia Juarez
Second VP:
Elma Moreno
NALA Liaison:
Georgia Seeley
Nominations were taken from the floor for First VP. Andrea Darland was nominated and she accepted.
Jan Bufkin performed the installation of officers and the new slate of officers for the 2014-2015 year is as
follows:
President Elect:
Cynthia Martinez
Secretary:
Lola Smith-Gentry
First VP:
Andrea Darland
Treasurer:
Sylvia Juarez
Second VP:
Elma Moreno
NALA Liaison:
Georgia Seeley
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Deirdre announced that Paralegal of the Year nominations were due.
Deirdre also announced that the Red Mass is on October 6.
ADJOURNMENT: Meeting was adjourned at 1:19 p.m.
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Sylvia Juarez
City of Lubbock
806-775-2217
[email protected]
No Report
Georgia Seeley, ACP
Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam, LLP
806-741-8487
[email protected]
LIAISION
Having been incredibly lucky to attend the NALA convention in Charleston back in July, my mind has since
been focused on our association's need to network and advertise. Just as Patricia mentions in her President's
Message, I believe that WTPA could make great strides in the areas of recognition and awareness for our
organization, both locally and nationally.
I would like to propose to our members the idea of setting up a "recognition" committee whose focus would
be on brainstorming and implementing new ways to advertise and raise awareness of WTPA.
I strongly believe that our organization serves a vital function for our local paralegals. We offer many hours
of free or very inexpensive CLE credits a year; we have a strong-knit community that can disseminate
information quickly and effectively; and our members are educated and professional, which affords us the
respect and appreciation of members of the larger Lubbock legal community. In my opinion, these are all
compelling reasons why we should desire, and consciously work toward, getting WTPA's name and purpose
out to the public.
My plan is to bring this idea up for further discussion at our November meeting. In the meantime though, I
would be thrilled to receive feedback - and hopefully interest in being involved - from any of you who might
share in this vision of a more recognized West Texas Paralegal Association.
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Paralegal Day
Celebration
Page 7
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WTPA
Membership
There are currently three (3) levels of membership in the West Texas Paralegal Association.
An Active member can participate at all levels of the WTPA. Active members can vote and hold an
office.
An Associate level member has the same rights as an active member, but cannot vote or hold an elected
office. However, an associate member can serve on a committee.
A Sustaining member supports the goals of the WTPA through its sustaining membership. A sustaining
member can be an individual, a business, a law firm, etc. A sustaining member cannot vote or hold
office, but can be a member of a committee.
Active Membership
Any resident of the State of Texas who has, through education, training or experience, demonstrated
knowledge of the legal system, legal principles, and procedures works as a paralegal under the direct
supervision of a duly licensed attorney has attended at least one meeting of the Association, and who
has satisfied at least one of the criteria for active membership established by this Association shall be
eligible for active membership.
Associate Membership
Associate membership may be granted to a person who has satisfied at least one of the criteria for
Association Membership established by this Association.
Sustaining Membership
Any attorney, law firm, business, corporation, school, or educator who supports the paralegal profession
and the goals, objectives, and programs of this Association may become a Sustaining
Member upon approval by the Membership Committee.
In addition, a life membership can be conveyed to a WTPA active member for
extraordinary service to the WTPA. A life member no longer pays membership dues.
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NALA Liaison
Georgia M. Seeley, ACP
Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam, L.L.P.
1. What do you love most about being a paralegal?
Being a paralegal gives me the opportunity to feed my hungry
mind with new information & concepts. Before this, I thought
the only way I could learn every day was to become a lifelong
student. Since becoming a paralegal though, I’ve learned so
many things - from how to read the codes on the side of a tire
to how to calculate climate data into layman’s terms! It is exciting & different every day.
2. What do you dislike most about being a paralegal?
I’m not fond of the constant struggle between the demands of billable hours versus the constant demands and
requirements to perform non-billable work. As a person who enjoys learning and teaching, I love being asked
questions and coming up with solutions. For example, when I get a phone call from someone having a computer or software problem, I enjoy figuring out a solution for them. However, as a paralegal with billable
hour requirements, sometimes I have to fight the urge to tell them, “Do what I did – USE GOOGLE to find the
solution!”
3. If money wasn’t an option as a form of payment, what would you choose to be paid with instead?
Starbucks coffee, Moscato red wine and Sonic vanilla cream cokes. I would also want quirky office privileges
like not having to wear shoes, a perfect computer that never screws up, and getting an hour nap every day at
2:00.
4. What gives you the greatest satisfaction in your position as a WTPA officer?
All of my volunteer work is focused on education and awareness. I feel a great passion toward getting relevant and useful information out to a group. I have been in positions before where I felt clueless and without
resources or guidance. My greatest satisfaction is when I can fill that void for other people.
11/18 – Eyvonne Palmer
12/07 – SHARON WHIRLEY 12/21 – Mary Helen Valdez
12/22 – Ruth Bagwell
12/31 – Debbie Aguirre
11/12 – Cynthia Martinez
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WTPA’s Fall Seminar was a Huge Success,
in Great Part Due to Our Sponsors!
Raffle Donors
America First, Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam, Terri Webb
and Darla Adams & Associates
Goodie Bag Donors
Darla Adams & Associates, iDocket,
Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam,
Signature Productions and Action Printing
Refreshments Donors
Barb Sucsy, Debbie Aguirre, Elma Moreno, Lola Smith-Gentry
and Patricia Wanjura
Presenters
Matt Wade, Underwood Law Firm
Matt Matzner, Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam
Ronn Garcia, Underwood Law Firm
Ambassador Susan Wilen, State Bar of Texas Paralegal Division Barbara
Sucsy, Lubbock County District Clerk
40th Annual Convention
July 22-24, 2015
Hyatt Regency Hotel, Tulsa, Oklahoma
The 2015 institutes offer a great mix of advanced and general skills
programs for all paralegals. The institutes described below will be held each
morning of the July program - Wednesday, July 22, Thursday, July 23 and
Friday, July 24.
The educational institutes are the key programs of the NALA convention,
offering over 8 hours of CLE.
Details regarding speakers and other information will be posted on the NALA web site until
the 2015 app is released. Sessions include:
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Environmental Law
Essential Skills
Immigration Law
Corporate Law
Legal Technology
Litigation with Emphasis on Government Liability
Medical Malpractice and How it Differs from Run-of-the-mill Litigation
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Nelson & Nelson
seeks to immediately fill the position of
Litigation Legal Assistant/Paralegal
Insurance defense firm to add a full-time litigation Legal Assistant/Paralegal to our
team. We are looking for someone who works well with others, is a team player,
types at least 70 wpm, and is a fast learner. Some responsibilities of the position
includes, but are not limited to: preparing and e-filing pleadings; preparing
discovery requests; preparing for trial; scheduling depositions, mediations, heavy
calendaring, and file reviews. Must be detail oriented and take pride in your final
work product.
Please submit your cover sheet, resume, and references as soon as possible, either in person or via email.
Salary DOE and benefits are negotiable. 1001 Main Street, Suite 601; E-mail: [email protected]
Crenshaw, Dupree & Milam
seeks to immediately fill the position of a
Legal Secretary
The qualified candidate will have very strong MS Word skills, experience with
Outlook and Excel, a strong command of the English language including excellent
spelling, grammar, punctuation, form and style, the ability to accurately transcribe
dictation and type at least 70 wpm, and have excellent organization and time
management skills. This candidate must be able to handle multiple priorities in a
fast-paced environment.
Other requirements include:
Minimum of 2 years prior legal administrative work experience
Basic knowledge and understanding of litigation terminology and procedures
Ability to compose correspondence and generate Table of Contents and Authorities
Detail orientated and can perform a variety of high-level secretarial duties to assist lawyers to whom
assigned
Demonstrate ability to prioritize work flow and flexibility to handle last minute filings (including federal
electronic filings)
Possess knowledge of records management and working knowledge of state and federal courts and
administrative agency rules, procedures, and deadlines.
Contact: Administrator, CD&M, LLP, P.O. Box 1499, Lubbock, Texas 79408 or fax 806-762-3510
or email [email protected]
West Texas Paralegal Association, P.O. Box 93103, Lubbock, TX 79493
www.WestTexasParalegalAssociation.org
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Sustaining
Members
Highlighted
Liggett Law Group
Connie L. Vance
Disability Services
In future Lexicon publications, I would like to have a section featuring the personal and professional accomplishments of our fellow members. This can be anything from promotions and legal certifications to weddings,
anniversaries and new grandbabies. I think it could be a fun addition to our newsletter!
However, I know how most people are too modest to submit these things for themselves so I need ALL of your
help. Please send me emails with brags and congratulations for any of your friends and co-workers in the legal
field. You can send these anytime you want but please be mindful of the deadlines for submissions for each
Lexicon newsletter.
And as always, if you ever have ideas, suggestions, or articles
for the Lexicon, feel free to share them. This is, after all, YOUR
organization and paper!
Georgia Seeley, ACP
2015 Lexicon Editor
Submission Deadline
December 18
February 16
April 17
June 17
August 18
Newsletter
January 2015 – Issue 2
March 2015 – Issue 3
May 2015 – Issue 4
July 2015 – Issue 5
September 2015 – Issue 6
WEST TEXAS PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE 2014-2015
1
10
12
13
14
16
21
23
27
31
OCTOBER 2014
Executive Committee Meeting
Gloria Martin’s Birthday
Jan Bufkin’s Birthday
Columbus Day
Charlotte Cumming’s Birthday
Bosses’ Day
Lola Smith-Gentry’s Birthday
Paralegal Day
Lexicon Deadline
Halloween
3
7
21
22
25
31
31
DECEMBER 2014
Executive Committee Meeting
Sharon Whirley’s Birthday
Mary Helen Valdez’s Birthday
Ruth Bagwell’s Birthday
Christmas Day
New Year’s Day
Debbie Aguirre’s Birthday
FEBRUARY 2015
2 Groundhog Day
4 Executive Committee Meeting
14 Valentine’s Day
15 Sylvia Juarez’s Birthday
16 President’s Day
Lexicon Deadline
APRIL 2015
1 Executive Committee Meeting
1 April Fool’s Day
3 Good Friday
5 Easter
16 Administrative Professionals Day
22 Earth Day
Lexicon Deadline
JUNE 2015
3 Executive Committee Meeting
14 Flag Day
21 Father’s Day
Lexicon Deadline
PD Summer Board Meeting
PD Annual Meeting
2
4
5
11
12
18
27
NOVEMBER 2014
Daylight Savings Time Ends
Election Day
Membership Meeting
Veteran’s Day
Cindy Martinez’s Birthday
Eyvonne Palmer’s Birthday
Thanksgiving Day
1
7
19
25
JANUARY 2015
New Year’s Day
Membership Meeting
Martin Luther King Day
Belly Laugh Day 
7
8
17
MARCH 2015
Spring Seminar
Daylight Savings Time Begins
Saint Patrick’s Day
5
6
10
11
12
25
27
MAY 2015
Cinco de Mayo
Membership Meeting
Mother’s Day
Barbara Sucsy’s Birthday
Beth Arnold’s Birthday
Memorial Day
Rebecca Veach’s Birthday
1
4
6
7
26
JULY 2015
Membership Meeting
Independence Day
Patricia Wanjura’s Birthday
Eunice McMillan’s Birthday
NALA Annual Convention
Parent’s Day
WEST TEXAS PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE 2014-2015
AUGUST 2015
5 Executive Committee Meeting
11 Jeanne Fairman’s Birthday
21 Lexicon Deadline
4
5
7
11
10
13
21
SEPTEMBER 2015
Deirdre Trotter’s Birthday
Fall Seminar
Labor Day
Patriot Day
Georgia Seeley’s Birthday
Grandparent’s Day
Elma Moreno’s Birthday
A Look at Legal Technology:
Using Technology in the Practice of Law
F r i d a y, N o v e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 1 4
9:00 am—1:00 pm
MCLE CREDIT:
3 HOURS (0.5 ETHICS)
Lanier Auditorium,
Texas Tech University School of Law
Free Admission & Lunch
Refreshments Provided
RSVP BY NOVEMBER 11
to Gretchen Dubec
806.834.4221
Parking available on site
Before parking, pull in to the circular
driveway beneath the three flagpoles,
which marks the main entrance. Enter the
law school, and the administration office,
found on the left, will provide a visitor
parking permit.
TOPIC HIGHLIGHTS
 Using Legal Apps
 Google for Lawyers
 Cloud Computing in the Law
Office
 OneNote in the Law Office
 Technology & Lean Six Sigma
 Ethics of Cloud Computing
COURSE AMENITIES
 Lunch & refreshments provided
 Campus Wi-Fi available
 Course materials provided
as a PDF download
DIRECTIONS
The Texas Tech University School of Law sits on the southwest
corner of 18th Street and Hartford Avenue on the Texas Tech
University campus. The Mark and Becky Lanier Professional Development Center addition lies on the west end of the building.
Enter the building from the north side, which faces the parking
lot.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Contact Joshua Pluta at 806.834.4495 or [email protected]
Texas Tech University School of Law
1802 Hartford Avenue, Lubbock, Texas 79409-0004
WWW.LAW.TTU.EDU/LAWLIBRARY
Texas Tech University Law Library presents
A Look at Legal Technology:
Using Technology in the Practice of Law
F r i d a y, N o v e m b e r 1 4 , 2 0 1 4
9:00 am—1:00 pm
MCLE CREDIT:
3 HOURS (0.5 ETHICS)
Lanier Auditorium,
Texas Tech University School of
Law
Free Admission & Lunch
Refreshments Provided
9:00 am
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
9:05 am - 9:35 am
LEGAL APPS: WHAT IS AVAILABLE, WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW, AND HOW DO I
USE THEM [0.5 hr]
Eugenia Charles-Newton J.D., M.A.
Faculty Services and Special Projects Librarian
Mobile apps geared towards legal practitioners
9:35 am - 10:05 am
GOOGLE FOR LAWYERS [0.5 hr]
Paul Gatz, J.D., M.S.L.I.S.
Reference and Student Services Librarian
A discussion of how lawyers can use Google more effective to streamline research and
investigation
RSVP BY NOVEMBER 11
to Gretchen Dubec
806.834.4221
[email protected]
10:05 am - 10:35 am
REACHING FOR THE CLOUD: BASICS OF CLOUD COMPUTING [0.5 hr]
Joshua Pluta, J.D., M.A.
Head of Reference and Educational Services Librarian
The basics of cloud computing - what it is, what is available, and how it can be used in
a law office
Parking available on site
10:35 am - 10:45 am
BREAK
Before parking, pull in to the circular driveway beneath the three
flagpoles, which marks the main
entrance. Enter the law school,
and the administration office,
found on the left, will provide a
visitor parking permit.
10:45 am - 11:15 am
ONENOTE IN THE LAW OFFICE [0.5 hr]
Professor Donnie Yandell, J.D.
Chief Public Defender, Caprock Regional Public Defender Office
A look at how law offices can make use of Microsoft OneNote and similar products to
streamline tasks in their practice
Need more information?
Contact Joshua Pluta
806.834.4495
[email protected]
11:15 am - 11:45 am
A VIEW FROM THE FUTURE: TECHNOLOGY-DRIVEN LEAN SIX SIGMA IN A LAW
OFFICE [0.5 hr]
Frank Urbanic, J.D. Candidate
Introduced by Professor Donnie Yandell
11:45 am - 12:00 pm
BREAK
12:00 pm - 12:45 pm [0.5 Ethics]
LUNCH & KEYNOTE SPEAKER: A WALK IN THE CLOUD COMPUTING
Anthony Ng, J.D., Partner, Russell Ng, PLLC
Immediate Past Chair, State Bar of Texas Computing & Technology Section
Ethical Concerns related to Cloud Computing and storing client information on the
cloud.
WEST TEXAS PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
An Affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants/Paralegals, Inc. (NALA)
P.O. Box 93103
Lubbock TX 79493
ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FOR YEAR
Dues $20.00
_____________=____________
NAME:__________________________________________________________________
FIRM NAME:_____________________________________________________________
PREFERRED ADDRESS:___________________________________________________
CITY STATE ZIP__________________________________________________________
PREFERRED PHONE/FAX:_________________________________________________
EMAIL ADDRESS:________________________________________________________
DATE OF BIRTH:_____________________
HAVE YOU BEEN CONVICTED OF A FELONY OFFENSE?
____ YES ____ NO
TOTAL YEARS EMPLOYED AS A PARALEGAL ___________________
TOTAL YEARS OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE (if different) __________________
CLA/CP STATUS: Please give date of Certification:_____________________
Specialty Certification:____________________________ Area __________________________
Formal or special education, schooling or training:_____________________________________
Member of NALA? _____ YES _____ NO
Paralegal Division? _____ YES _____ NO
I HEREBY CONSENT TO WTPA CONTACTING MY PRESENT AND/OR FORMER
SUPERVISING ATTORNEY(S) FOR VERIFICATION OR CLARIFICATION OF MY
QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP.
Please check the appropriate category(ies) that apply to you
_____ 1.
I work as or have worked as a paralegal under the direct supervision of a duly licensed
attorney and also meet one of the following criteria:
_____ (a)
_____ (b)
_____ (c)
I have successfully completed the voluntary certification examination given by
NALA;
I have a bachelor’s degree or higher in any field PLUS at least one (1) year of
experience as a paralegal under the direct supervision of a duly licensed attorney;
I have successfully completed an ABA approved program of education and
training to paralegals or a non-ABA approved but institutionally accredited
program of education and training for paralegals PLUS at least one (1) year of
experience as a paralegal under the direct supervision of a duly licensed attorney;
_____ (d)
_____ 2.
I have completed a minimum of four (4) years of law-related experience PLUS at
least one (1) year of experience as a paralegal under the direct supervision of a
duly licensed attorney; or
I am employed as a Coordinator or Supervisor of a paralegal program within the
employing entity, and I have previously met the criteria set forth above.
I hereby apply for ACTIVE membership in the West Texas Paralegal Association. I hereby certify that I
am employed as a Paralegal, that I qualify as an active member under one or more categories checked
above, and that I have attended a meeting of the WTPA. I have read the definition of a paralegal and the
NALA Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility as stated below and agree to be bound by them and
the Bylaws as adopted by the WTPA.
Applicant’s Signature:________________________________
Date:________________
===========================================================================
ATTORNEY-EMPLOYER ATTESTATION
I hereby attest that ____________________________________ is employed by me and is recognized as a paralegal
and that he/she is under the supervision and direction of an attorney and is capable of the following services as
generally described by the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Paralegals:
Applying knowledge of the law and legal procedure in drafting legal documents and other papers in certain
fields of law; exercising judgment and working independently with respect to the assigned tasks, keeping
and meeting deadlines; preparing or interpreting legal documents for review by attorneys; selecting,
compiling, and using technical information from such references as digests, encyclopedias, or practice
manuals; analyzing procedural problems and recommending solutions in certain fields; and preparing
detailed office procedures for efficient handling of specified fields of law.
I further attest that the above Applicant has been employed by me or another attorney as a paralegal for one (1) year
or longer and that he/she is recommended for membership in the WTPA.
Signature of Attorney/Employer:__________________________ Date:________________
To be completed by Membership Chair:
_____ This Applicant has been approved as an Active Member
_____ This Applicant does not meet the qualifications for active membership.
Date determination made: ___________________________
By:_____________________________
Vice-President, Membership
_____ Payment received and accepted
_____ Payment returned to Applicant
Check No. ________
West Texas Paralegal Association (an Affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants/Paralegals, Inc.)
Membership Renewal for 2014-2015
TO BE COMPLETED BY ALL RENEWING MEMBERS:
Name:__________________________________________________________________________
Business Name:___________________________________________________________________
Business Address:__________________________________________________________________
Business Phone:_______________________________________
Home Address:____________________________________________________________________
Home Phone:__________________________________________
(Please place an asterisk (*) by your preferred mailing address)
Email address(es):__________________________________________________________________
Membership Status:
Active ____ Associate _____ Student _____ Life Member-Active _____ Life Member-Retired______
Member of NALA?
Yes_____
No_____
Member of Paralegal Division of State Bar?
Yes_____
No_____
Please indicate the year you joined WTPA:_____________
Please indicate the committee on which you would like to serve by numbering 1, 2, and 3 in order of preference.
(Both active and associate members may participate)
Membership_____
Legal Education _____
Public Relations_____
Bylaws and standing rules_____
Newsletter_____
Finance_____
Audit Committee_____
Scholarship Committee_____
Return this Renewal and $20.00 annual dues (except for Life Members) to the following address as soon as
possible but no later than September 30: West Texas Paralegal Association, Attn: Membership Chairman, PO
Box 93013, Lubbock TX 79493
ATTORNEY-EMPLOYER ATTESTATION
I hereby attest that the renewing member is employed by me and is recognized as a paralegal and that he/she is
under the supervision and direction of an attorney.
Signature of Attorney/Employer:________________________________ Date:_______________
To be completed by membership committee:
_____ This Renewal has been approved for _____ Active _____Associate Membership
_____ This Renewal does not meet the qualifications for membership.
Date determination made:________________________
Membership Committee
By:________________________________
Vice President, Membership
_____ Payment received and accepted – Check No. __________
_____ Payment returned to applicant
WEST TEXAS PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
An Affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants/Paralegals, Inc. (NALA)
P.O. Box 93103
Lubbock TX 79493
ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FOR YEAR
Dues $20.00
__________-___________
NAME:__________________________________________________________________
FIRM NAME:_____________________________________________________________
PREFERRED ADDRESS:___________________________________________________
CITY STATE ZIP__________________________________________________________
PREFERRED PHONE/FAX:_________________________________________________
EMAIL ADDRESS:________________________________________________________
DATE OF BIRTH:_____________________
HAVE YOU BEEN CONVICTED OF A FELONY OFFENSE?
____ YES ____ NO
TOTAL YEARS EMPLOYED AS A PARALEGAL ___________________
TOTAL YEARS OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE (if different) __________________
CLA/CP STATUS: Please give date of Certification:_____________________
Specialty Certification:____________________________ Area __________________________
Formal or special education, schooling or training:_____________________________________
Member of NALA? _____ YES _____ NO
Paralegal Division? _____ YES _____ NO
I HEREBY CONSENT TO WTPA CONTACTING MY PRESENT AND/OR FORMER
SUPERVISING ATTORNEY(S) FOR VERIFICATION OR CLARIFICATION OF MY
QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP.
Please check the appropriate category(ies) that apply to you:
_____ 1.
I am a student in a paralegal program at _________________________________
_____________________. (Paralegal Program Educator verification below must be
completed if applying under this category.)
_____ 2.
I am a Paralegal Educator at _________________________________________.
_____ 3.
I am a paralegal who is not under the direct supervision of an attorney, having been a
paralegal for one (1) year or longer.
_____ 4.
I am a paralegal who has not yet attended a meeting of the Association, but I satisfy the
criteria set out above for Active Membership. (Attorney-Employer Attestation must also
be completed if applying under this category).
I hereby apply for associate membership in the West Texas Paralegal Association. I hereby certify that I
qualify under at least one of the categories marked above. I have read the definition of a paralegal and the
NALA Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility as stated below and agree to be bound by them and
the Bylaws as adopted by the WTPA.
Applicant’s Signature:________________________________
Date:________________
=====================================================================
LEGAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM EDUCATOR VERIFICATION
I have read the definition of a paralegal as stated below and I hereby verify that the Applicant,
__________________________________________ is enrolled as a student in the paralegal program at
__________________________________________________________.
Signature by Educator:_________________________________ Date:__________________
Phone/Email address:__________________________________
To be completed by Membership Chair:
_____ This Applicant has been approved as an _____ Active _____ Associate Member
_____ This Applicant does not meet the qualifications for membership.
Date determination made: ___________________________
By:_____________________________
Vice-President, Membership
_____ Payment received and accepted
_____ Payment returned to Applicant
Check No. ________
WEST TEXAS PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
An Affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants/Paralegals, Inc. (NALA)
P.O. Box 93103
Lubbock TX 79493
SUSTAINING MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FOR YEAR __________=___________
Dues $100.00
NAME:__________________________________________________________________
FIRM NAME:_____________________________________________________________
ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________________
CITY STATE ZIP__________________________________________________________
PHONE/FAX:_____________________________________________________________
EMAIL ADDRESS:________________________________________________________
Enclosed is a check for $100.00 payable to WTPA, in payment of sustaining membership dues.
____________________________________
Signature
PLEASE SEND THIS APPLICATION, COMPANY INFORMATION, AND DUES TO:
West Texas Paralegal Association
P. O. Box 93103
Lubbock, TX 79493-3103
THANK YOU!
===========================================================================
To be completed by Membership Chair:
_____ Payment received and accepted Check No. ________
_____ Payment returned to Applicant
NALA Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility
Copyright 2007; Adopted 1975; Revised 1979, 1988; 1995; 2007.
National Association of Legal Assistants, Inc.
Definition: Legal assistants, also known as paralegals, are a distinguishable group of persons who assist attorneys in the delivery of
legal services. Through formal education, training and experience, legal assistants have knowledge and expertise regarding the legal
system and substantive and procedural law which qualify them to do work of a legal nature under the supervision of an attorney.
In 2001, NALA members also adopted the ABA definition of a legal assistant/paralegal, as follows:
A legal assistant or paralegal is a person qualified by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a
lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for
which a lawyer is responsible. (Adopted by the ABA in 1997)
Canon 1.
A paralegal must not perform any of the duties that attorneys only may perform nor take any actions 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.
Canon 6.
A paralegal must strive to maintain integrity and a high degree of competency through education and training with respect to
professional responsibility, local rules and practice, and through continuing education in substantive areas of law to better assist the
legal profession in fulfilling its duty to provide legal service.
Canon 7.
A paralegal must protect the confidences of a client and must not violate any rule or statute now in effect or hereafter enacted
controlling the doctrine of privileged communications between a client and an attorney.
Canon 8.A paralegal must disclose to his or her employer or prospective employer any pre‐existing client or personal relationship
that may conflict with the interests of the employer or prospective employer and/or their clients.
Canon 9.
A paralegal must do all other things incidental, necessary, or expedient for the attainment of the ethics and responsibilities as
defined by statute or rule of court.
Canon 10.
A paralegal's conduct is guided by bar associations' codes of professional responsibility and rules of professional conduct.