The Official Record
Transcription
The Official Record
The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 1 The Official Record Fall 2012 IN THIS ISSUE: Volume 49 Issue 3 FROM OUR PRESIDENT JANET R. VANDENBERG, ALS From Our President - Page 1 President-Elect - Page 3 Executive Secretary - Page 4 Certification/Education Director Page 4 Marketing Director - Page 5 Membership Director - Page 6 Immediate Past President - Page 7 Parliamentarian - Page 8 Treasurer - Page 9 2012-2013 Calendar of Events Page 10 NALS 2012 Electronic Voting Process - Page 12 MI Court of Appeals Notice Regarding E-Filing Permission Page 14 NALS of Michigan 2012-13 Order Form - Page 15 2012-2013 NALS of Michigan Officers - Page 16 2012-2013 Committees - Page 17 Legal Recruiting News - Page 19 Engage 5 Application for Waiver of Dues - Page 20 “How Can I Promote NALS Locally and Statewide?” This is a topic that speaks for itself. How important is your NALS membership to you? What have you gained from being a member? And what are you willing to share with other potential or former members? Today, our members come from all walks of life, skills, work in various capacities in various areas of the law, bank trust offices, title companies, process servers, the various court systems, various county offices, etc. We also have to remember that we have several student members who are attending classes (part or full time) to become legal secretaries, legal assistants, paralegals, law students, etc., and then finally our retired members that round out our membership. The majority of our members have gained a great deal from their membership in NALS, a multi-level association. You will get out of your membership what you are willing to put back into it. Do you attend meetings on the local, state, regional, and national levels? Do you participate in the various webinars or on-line sessions that our national association offers regularly? Have you earned your certification or are you studying for one of the certifications (ALS, PLS, PP) that NALS offers? Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone and share the benefits of your NALS membership with a potential new member, invite them to a local, state or regional meeting? Are you willing to encourage them to study for one of the exams? Have you thought about mentoring someone that is a potential or new member? All of these areas take commitment, determination, persistence, and the willingness to work side-by-side other members to increase our membership. These goals can be accomplished if you are willing to step forward and make that commitment, encourage others to reap those benefits you have, and be a part of this professional organization called NALS. The Official Record Our multi-level association has a Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility that we are bound by. Do you take these seriously? Your attitude is of utmost importance and how we present ourselves to our membership and potential new members will show. Helene Wood, PP, PLS-SC Corporate, TSC-RE, our national president shared with her board earlier this year “Attitude is Everything.” I shared this with the current executive committee this past May. One important aspect that she touched on was while serving as executive committee members we have additional responsibilities that we are required to do in our various capacities. She also mentioned that we must consider ourselves “on stage” and we are being watched by our members and others who follow our every move, watch our every step, listen to every word, review every article we write, and read every post to the NALS Community, Facebook, Twitter, etc. First and foremost we are to act in a professional manner, while keeping a positive attitude and being enthusiastic. Finally, I have found our members have shown concern for each other in various capacities over the years. Many members have lost a loved one, had an accident, injury, or illness, etc. And during these tragic times, all of these members have been surrounded by a human bond that brought our members closer together. When we receive notice of these concerns, the Presidentelect notifies the Executive Committee and Board of Directors who then notify the membership via e-mail and the notification is posted on the state website. Recently this human bond was shared when one of our past presidents lost her son who was serving his country as a U.S. Marine. To me, it was simply awesome, to see the members (including past presidents, current and past executive committee members, and chapter members along with some spouses) who gave of their time and drove distances to give support to a NALS member during a very difficult time. I believe this is what our association is all about. We are there for each other, through the good times and the Fall 2012 ▬ Page 2 bad, to support our members whether it is by sending a card, phone call, visit, etc. This is what membership in NALS – the association for legal professionals is all about … FRIENDSHIP, ENCOURAGEMENT, PROFESSIONALISM, MENTORING, KEEPING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE, PROMOTING NALS, WILLINGNESS TO HELP EACH OTHER, and being a member of a professional organization that encompasses all of these. Attitude Is Everything Yes….. It is exciting to have the support of the members and be elected to the NALS of Michigan Board of Directors But….. Along with the excitement come responsibilities. Consider yourself “on stage” and being watched by members and others who will follow your every move, watch your every step, listen to your every word, review every article you write, and read every post to the NALS Community, Facebook, Twitter, etc. You Are… A consummate professional It is imperative that you remain professional at all times. The Official Record NALS….. An attitude that is always POSITIVE and ENTHUSIASTIC ▲ PRESIDENT-ELECT TERESA M. GARBER, PP, PLS "How to Market NALS" Many people think of marketing, and they only think about advertising in a newspaper, television, or radio. There is so much more to it. NALS of Michigan has been blessed to have a fantastic marketing committee for the past couple of years. The committee works hard to spread the word about NALS activities across the state. The committee sends press releases, creates beautiful banners and business cards, and uses Constant Contact to send messages to members. However, marketing should not stop with the committee. As members of NALS, it is our responsibility to assist with marketing opportunities. It is not as daunting as you may think. There are many simple, quick things you can do to market NALS. First, you can display any NALS acknowledgements you have received prominently at your desk at work (do not break office policies regarding what you can have at your desk, though). This includes anything from a NALS certification to the gavel you used as chapter president to a framed copy of the NALS Code of Ethics. Second, make sure to inform your supervisor about what you are doing in NALS. All it takes is a quick e-mail to let that person know if you are leading a section of a local study group or if you received a NALS recognition or if your chapter has a great presentation coming up (do not forget to invite that person to a NALS event). Third, you can write an article for the NALS of Michigan newsletter. It is as simple as writing a summary Fall 2012 ▬ Page 3 about a NALS presentation that you attended (make sure to send a copy of your published article to your supervisor). There are certainly other things you can do as well, and some of them can be a little bigger. The following is a story for you to consider. My taekwondo school recently held a bully prevention presentation for children ages 5 to 12, free of charge, and open to students and non-students. The school gave cards about the event to its current students to hand out to friends. On the day of the presentation, the school had a large dry-erase board by the road advertising the presentation and that it was free. There were balloons all over the place, and several of us instructor-trainees were outside in full uniform greeting passers-by and welcoming attendees. During the presentation, we showed a video to the kids about "stranger danger" and worked with the kids on simple, age-appropriate self-defense techniques. The kids all got a donut at the end, and non-students were presented with a special taekwondo headband that the lead instructor autographed. The school spent very little money, used current students/instructortrainees (yours truly included) to help teach the kids, and we presented information that we were "experts" at to better the community at large. There were benefits for the school, instructors, and the kids. About forty children participated in the event, and five new students signed up. The instructor-trainees received valuable hours needed toward attaining certification as a taekwondo instructor. The kids learned how to keep themselves safe. This example can be applied to NALS. Work with a local school to make a presentation to paralegal students about what they do not teach in school, or your local bar association to make a presentation to new attorneys after they have been sworn in on how to work effectively with legal support staff, or put together a free seminar on the basics of certain courts or other areas of law. Have seasoned NALS members make these presentations when possible. You do not need a lot of flyers or a banner or fancy equipment. Try to find a location that will not charge you for the space (does your local The Official Record courthouse have a jury assembly room you can use?). Having seasoned NALS members make the presentations means you have presenters who already possess the knowledge needed to pass on to others without too much preparation. Not charging a fee shows you are committed to providing vital information and knowledge to the legal community. The benefits will be similar to the ones my taekwondo school received: your chapter can gain new members, the NALS members making the presentations can earn recertification/CLE points, and you provide a valuable service to the legal community. Marketing does not have to take a lot of effort. You do not need a lot of money or a group of 15 people to pull off one amazing advertisement. It is the small things that catch people's attention and make them want to learn more. It is providing what people need. Marketing is something that any NALS member can do with some creativity and enthusiasm. ▲ EXECUTIVE SECRETARY WIL ANTONIDES, ALS “How Can I Promote NALS Locally and Statewide?” One of the ways I promote my local NALS chapter is through subtle hints. I use my ALS certification in all of my correspondence, emails, and anywhere else my name is used. This inevitably raises a question by some, “What does the ALS stand for?” This is a great entrée to talk about the ALS, and NALS, and my local chapter. Sometimes you just need a talking starter. Another way to promote NALS is through student membership. There are some that think student memberships are too much effort for too little return. That is, students do not always recognize the value of membership and so, often, lapse their membership after a year or so. I see this differently. While I do not deny some student members do let their membership lapse– even with our best efforts–I prefer to see them Fall 2012 ▬ Page 4 as potential permanent members. By that I mean that while their membership may lapse now (regrettably), down the road–after graduation and maybe during their first years on the job– they will hear about a NALS event or meeting and think, “Hey, ya’–I remember them–maybe I should get involved with them again.” It is held that no one knows the true value of marketing– ideas may germinate for years and only later come to fruition– and you cannot quantify today a result in the future. That said, NALS is offering a new student membership benefit. Any student registered in a paralegal/legal studies program at any university who has registered to take the ALS or PP certification exam is eligible for a FREE student membership. NALS sees this as a great way to boost our visibility in local colleges and universities as well as our total membership. More information is available from Diana Price ([email protected]) or Diane Berry–our state-wide membership director. Many of you know that I came to the legal support profession as a second career. As such, as an (ahem) “older” student, I saw the value of my student membership immediately. The resources, networking opportunities, and contacts made through my attendance of meetings pays off every day. So what can we do to promote NALS local and state membership? By doing what we do best– communication and outreach. ▲ CERTIFICATION/EDUCATION DIRECTOR RENEE M. STOUT, PP, PLS “Ways You Can Promote NALS Locally and Statewide” As NALS of Michigan Certification and Education Director, I have the easiest perspective for promoting NALS. The Official Record On the local level, attend your chapter’s legal education and invite your friends to join you. I believe the majority of new members join because of the certification and education opportunities NALS offers for the price. If you invite one or two friends to a seminar, it will not take long to know if they are NALS member material; if they talk about joining because of the great benefits NALS has to offer, they are member material. Please don’t be offended if your friend is not interested; it may not be the right time in his or her life to make the commitment–they just don’t know what they are missing. On the state level, the story is the same. Attend the quality legal education NALS of Michigan has to offer and invite a friend or two. It helps to have a travel buddy or two. Maybe your friend, who has been a member for a long time, is reluctant to travel to the seminars. Once you invite her and she sees what we have to offer, maybe you will have a lifetime NALS travel buddy! Certification speaks for itself. Certification draws members to us simply because they want what we have–a reputation for knowing what to do when presented with just about anything in the law office. If we don’t know what to do, we have a book to look at or, better yet, we have another certified member friend who knows the answer. Certification is a gift to ourselves; once certified, we have the added pride of possessing the reputation that comes with being a PP, PLS, or ALS. A study buddy is a special person; it is someone who knows your secrets and is always there when you are ready to study again. This relationship is priceless. If you are ready to make the commitment, ask a friend or two to commit with you. This is a truly wonderful experience if you embrace it wholeheartedly and truly make the commitment to attain certification. Promoting NALS is easy… Ask an acquaintance. Tell a friend. Tell your boss. NALS has a lot to offer, and it is up to us as members to spread the word! Fall 2012 ▬ Page 5 ▲ MARKETING DIRECTOR VICKI BALLINGER, PLS “Innovative Marketing” “Innovation is the creation of better or more effective products, processes, services, technologies, or ideas. Innovation differs from invention in that innovation refers to the use of a better and, as a result, novel idea or method, whereas invention refers more directly to the creation of the idea or method itself. Innovation differs from improvement in that innovation refers to the notion of doing something different rather than doing the same thing better. In the organizational context, innovation may be linked to positive changes in efficiency, productivity, quality, competitiveness, etc.” - Wikipedia For over fifty years, NALS has served the legal industry in our state. Things have changed a lot in that time, just look at the old Annual Meeting photos. The future of our association depends on our ability to attract a new generation of legal support staff who will carry the association forward. The younger generations respond to things differently than those of us who were born in the 1950s, 60s and 70s. We need to come up with innovative ways to attract them and innovative programs to keep them interested. Think of it this way, if your 25-35 year old child or other relative was in this career field, would they be interested in NALS? Why or why not? What might we need to do to get them interested? INNOVATION is a new buzzword among NALS members and staff. It is not only the latest buzzword for NALS, but for associations across the country. You may have noticed announcements from the NALS Foundation The Official Record about funding “innovative” projects. I noted a recent Facebook post by NALS Executive Director Tammy Hailey. She tweeted a link to a presentation about innovation while she was attending an ASAE conference. The speaker was Jeff De Cagna, former CEO of ASAE - The Center for Association Leadership, and Tammy posted a link to his presentation. I thought I would try to look at marketing projects from that perspective, and turn them into something we can use for developing new marketing ideas. The presentation is pretty interesting on its own, but here are some basic thoughts on how to come up with innovative marketing ideas. 1) 2) What is the specific purpose of membership? What need will membership fulfill? Use your imagination. What are the possibilities that membership in NALS can bring to new members and their employers? 3) Membership offers more opportunity than they might think. Note the number and types of benefits that membership has to offer. 4) Learn what the needs are in the legal industry in your community. Listen to members and non-members about their successes and struggles. What can NALS members do to help? 5) 6) Expand the reach of NALS by participating in other associations or clubs, church or civic groups. Community service projects are a favorite among NALS members. Do one or two projects a year as a chapter, or assist another group with their project. Get that name recognition out there. Be available. Do not be afraid to rearrange your CLE schedule so the most people can attend (members and non-members). Fall 2012 ▬ Page 6 Saturday seminars are very successful. If possible, offer the same program at two different times of the day to see how attendance changes. 7) Be clear in your marketing message. Do not fill up the page with small print or lots of fluff. 8) Take small steps. Give new ideas a chance on a trial basis, and not just once. Try your new idea at least twice to be sure the results are not a fluke. 9) Do not be disappointed if you are not successful the first time out. Give people a little time to warm up to the idea. 10) Identify the impact of your project on our members and our association and make adjustments as needed. If you are looking for some inspiration, search online for this article: 32 Innovations That Will Change Your Tomorrow. You will never guess what people are dreaming up these days. ▲ MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Diane Y. Berry, PLS Ways You Can Promote NALS Locally -- and State Wide Start with your local chapter. Do you make guests and new members feel welcome? Do you have a mentor assigned to new members? Get passionate about what attributes make NALS unique and desirable and why people should want what you have to offer. Annual Reports. Provide your members with a written recap of your year’s activities, accomplishments, challenges, and financial status. Give them something to get excited about in the coming year. The Official Record At work. Share your enthusiasm! Share what you have learned at monthly chapter programs, local, state, and national seminars with your coworkers and employer. If your employer pays your fees, let them know what you have learned and how their money is contributing to your worth and that of the firm. Have you obtained your Certification. certification? Do you display it proudly? Individuals who earn NALS Certificates strive to be at the top of their rank in competitive law environments. Lawyers who hire NALS members benefit from the integrity and professionalism they bring to their organization. Let them know you are certified! Continuing Legal Education. CLE Certificates are not just for those who have certified. Collect them to present to your employer at your Annual Review. Law firms want legal support staff that is deeply committed. Vendors, educators, consultants, suppliers, and clients. A local copying service may be willing to sponsor local events. NALS members are exposed to the best vendors at conferences and know who to call when someone needs outside professional help, such as court reporters, private investigators, expert witnesses, staffing assistance, etc. The best marketing to your employer takes place when you can say: I have presentation materials on that! I have a business card for someone who does that! I know someone who dealt with just that type of issue! I have a sister-in-law through NALS who works in that town, or even state -- let me give her a call and get that information for you. Ask the company that you use for firm business to join. Remember, it never hurts to ask! All they can do is to say no. Another benefit to offer to these potential members is to invite them to a luncheon and they can purchase a table for $25 to market their company. If your chapter has 10 members, that is 10 opportunities for that Fall 2012 ▬ Page 7 company to have one-on-one contact without them having to reach out to individuals themselves. You could advertise that the luncheon is FREE. You can use the $25/table contributions to buy deli sandwiches or trays from a local grocery store and bring in bags of chips and cold drinks. A free lunch will get people there, especially your own members! Collaborate with other organizations. Identify at least one representative from each major professional organization in your area and invite them to a meeting once a year. Presentations. Offer short presentations at local seminars, chamber of commerce meetings, trade shows, conventions, schools, etc. The Classifieds. Place a “Members Wanted” ad in the classified ads of the local newspaper. In this ever-changing economy, there are legal professionals who read the classified ads in search of a new job opportunity. Other legal publications. Try offering a free ad for them in return for a free ad for you. Swap ads to help each other promote programs and educational conferences. Finally, Go to www.nals.org and download the NALS.org Manual on Marketing! ▲ IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT SANDY J. LAVENDER, CHRS “Ways You Can Promote NALS Locally and Statewide” Each of us as members is the association’s greatest marketer. You likely don’t even realize just how much one single member does on any given day to get NALS the recognition it needs and deserves. This morning, as I write this article, I see NALS everywhere. When you walk into my office, my walls are filled with framed artwork of ads that my firm placed in Annual Meeting programs from The Official Record years past as I ran for many different offices. My marketing department was kind enough to have them professionally matted and framed. In addition, the signs that were used to direct attendees of the Annual Meeting at Crystal Mountain when I was installed as your president are also framed. They catch the eye of many who enter and it prompts conversation. Many attorneys have asked more about NALS, and as a result, some have chosen to have their secretary join, and even take our certification exams. Last Friday, when speaking to an attorney in my office about something completely different than the subject of NALS, he ended the conversation by saying that he was so happy that his assistant had joined the association and he thought she had a spark ignited in her that he hadn’t seen in some time. Yes, she has always been an exceptional assistant for him and the others she served, but challenging herself by seeking certification has changed her. She is now marketing our association as well – the books on her desk, studying during lunch, discussing the online study group session she attended the night before, all have worked to get her floor buzzing about what she’s doing for herself and what the association might be able to do for them. I’ve noticed lately that even with social media, all of us who are on Facebook usually always post something about NALS after having just left an event. Those of us who have “Friends” who are not NALS members usually always ask about what we’ve posted. It gets people talking. It gets people asking questions. It prompts discussion. It sparks excitement. Recently I was watching my local public television station during one of its fundraising drives. I saw a group of volunteers from The Renaissance Festival answering telephones for pledges. They donned hats from the era and numerous times the host made mention of who they all were. It got me thinking. Perhaps that is something that your local chapter could do on an evening for community service. Volunteer to answer phones for a telethon, public television fund drive, or something along those lines. What great exposure NALS would receive as we all Fall 2012 ▬ Page 8 are dressed in our association apparel. Sometimes the groups volunteering are even interviewed. That’s when you can give them your 30 second elevator speech. It’s marketing at its finest. It also leaves you feeling like you’ve helped out your community. It doesn’t get any better than that, does it? ▲ PARLIAMENTARIAN ROXANN REPASY “Just a Member? No Excuse!” What better place to start an article about "promoting" than with a Google search of "promote ." pro·mote [pruh-moht] verb (used with object) pro·mot·ed, pro·mot·ing To help or encourage to exist or flourish; further: Local chapters and NALS of Michigan are struggling. NALS has recognized this issue, and has proposed a Governance change that will alter the structure of the association, yet ensure we exist. As members, we must do what we can, and have ample opportunities to "encourage or further" this association. We can start by attending meetings of other associations, and observing the meeting and governance structures. Request 10-15 minutes to discuss how NALS can benefit them. Members should never miss the opportunity to "help" by using a NALS members or NALS resource. Above alldon't be shy--give yourself, your chapter, your association credit for all we do (and are doing) for the legal profession. To advance in rank, dignity, position, etc: You have been elected for a local and/or state office- now what? Acceptance of the nomination shows you are ready for more responsibility, and being elected shows faith and trust of the members. Take the time to discuss your election with your co-workers and your employer. The Official Record Address the possibility of needing additional time off to attend meetings and stress how serving in any capacity on any level of our association is a benefit not only to you--but to them--and that their support is important to your success. Review the duties and responsibilities of your office and explain how you will utilize your career skills. Brainstorm about ways to accomplish some of the duties or seek their guidance, input and/or opinion; get them involved. Sharing the NALS Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility will further enhance your standards of conduct. The feeling of accomplishment and pride of a "job well done" will encourage you to continue "up the ladder" not only in the association, but within your employment. To move ahead to the next higher stage or grade of a course or series of classes: NALS offers several certifications, and most recently added the "specialty certification." Discuss the different criteria and requirements with your co-workers or your employer. Share your study materials and mock exams, and seek their help with a "cram." Your dedication to obtaining certification as well as the knowledge gleaned from studying is the greatest "promotion" of all. To aid in organizing (business undertakings): Everyone needs a little help sometimes, so take the opportunity to "partner" with your local bar association or another organization. Seek out local charitable organizations and "volunteer." The more we are seen--the more NALS is heard. To encourage the sales, acceptance, etc., especially through advertising or other publicity, to expand: There is something going on, in one way, shape or form, on some level of our association at any given time. Members need to "get the word out." Post flyers in your break room for up-coming events that pertain to your area of law. Access the NALS website print the CLE schedule, and distribute or post. Discuss upcoming events Fall 2012 ▬ Page 9 and/or CLE opportunities with your employer and highlight those you will be attending. Distribute copies of the handouts from seminars, and take the opportunity to comment on something you learned at the event, or that you know will spark their interest. Invite co-workers to meetings and/or seminars (because no one likes to go alone). Use your connections with other area firms and distribute the information to them as well. Volunteer to be the "car pool mom" and make it FUN. One sure way to get everyone's attention--be EXCITED about giving up an evening or a weekend to attend a NALS event--I guarantee that will get them talking! Just by being a member, we "promote" NALS by: Helping and encouraging to ensure our growth; Advancing with dignity while adhering to a standard of conduct; Challenging ourselves to the next step through certification; Aiding the local bar association and other organizations; Encouraging membership. No Excuses! ▲ TREASURER PATRICIA A. CONOR, PP, PLS “How Can I Promote NALS Locally and Statewide?” Promotion of NALS on all levels local, state, and national can be reflected in all of us by showing others the positive benefits of our association. We can be a reflection of what we want to show others, and we can mirror others to emulate the best in our association. I spoke to all of you in my nomination speech at this year’s annual meeting that membership means different things to different people and also means different things to the same people at different times. We need to think of NALS as that reflection to others, but first we must look in The Official Record the mirror to decide what it is you want from any organization. Until you look in that mirror and decide what you want and what your reflection means, you will not be able to articulate that to others. Our mirrors may be a career choice or may be what we have come to know. If you are satisfied with what you see in the mirror, you can then successfully show that to others in our organization. My NALS membership has been a means to meet and work with all members of our association. Do you remember the first time you attended a meeting; what did you think? Did you meet new people; did you feel welcomed; did you learn a little? I thought what a great opportunity to network with others and maybe gain a little knowledge along the way. Wow was I ever right and wrong. Right because I gained knowledge, but wrong because I never thought I would gain this much knowledge and friendship from those around me in our organization. Promotion of NALS on all levels is a reflection of every member. What will you gain; what can you show to others that will inspire them to achieve their goals? You can be an inspiration to others. You have the knowledge to promote NALS, just be a reflection in the NALS mirror. ▲ NALS OF MICHIGAN 2012-2013 CALENDAR OF EVENTS August 28-September 26, 2012 NALS Online Study Group Free to Members Visit www.nals.org Online Learning Center for Information re: each session September 1, 2012 Foundation Grant application Deadline Fall 2012 ▬ Page 10 September 2, 2012 Certification Exam Registration Deadline September 6, 2012 NALS WebEd Picking the Right Estate and Life Plan For You and Your Family By Michael J. Faehner, Esq. of M. Faehner, Esq. LLC (FL) September 13, 2012 NALS WebEd Ethics By Joshua D. Sheffer of Bode & Grenier, LLP September 14, 2012 NALS Portland Conference Room Block Deadline September 17, 2012 NALS Ballots Sent via e-mail to all Members September 19, 2012 (FREE to Members) NALS WebEd Leading Effective Meetings (Next Generation Leadership) By Patricia E. Infanti, PP, PLS (PA) September 27, 2012 NALS WebEd I-9 Dos and Don’ts in the Workplace By Nelsy C. Gómez, Esq. of Cozen O’Conner (TX) The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 11 September 28, 2012 October 25, 2012 NALS Board of Directors Election Period Ends – NALS WebEd September 29, 2012 Certification Exams October 4, 2012 NALS WebEd Trial Notebooks By Vicki Voisen October 6, 2012 NALS of Michigan Fall Seminar and Directors' Meeting State Bar of Michigan Building, Lansing October 8-12, 2012 Court Observance Week “No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom” October 11, 2012 NALS WebEd Arbitration By Scott Brown of Blake & Uhlig (MO) November 13, 2012 NALS WebEd Community Involvement: Next Generation Leadership (free to members!) November 15, 2012 Deadline to submit articles for Winter Issue of The Official Record December 1, 2012 Early Bird Registration Deadline for NALS 2013 Professional Development & Education Conference www.nals.org/conferences December 18, 2012 NALS WebEd To be announced Succession Planning: Next Generation Leadership (free to members!) October 18-20, 2012 December 20, 2012 NALS 61st Education Conference & National Forum Portland, Oregon NALS WebEd October 23, 2012 NALS WebEd Work Life Balance: Next Generation Leadership (free to members!) Iqbal Decision This session will discuss the recent updates to the Iqbal Decision; how it relates to staff, federal briefing requirements, and motions to dismiss in federal court The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 12 NALS 2012 Electronic Voting Process Valid Email Address Registered with NALS In order to receive a ballot, each NALS member must have a valid email address registered with NALS. How do you know if NALS has your correct email address? Log on to the Members Only section of the NALS website and review and update your contact information by following these easy steps: • • • • • • • Log on to www.nals.org. Select “Log In” under the Welcome tab. Click on “Click here to log in.” Follow the instructions for logging in. Select “My Profile.” Review the information listed and correct as needed. Press “submit.” If this is your first time logging into the Members Only section, clear instructions are available on the login page. Any member who does not have a personal computer can visit his or her local library or community center to use available free computers. It is easy to sign up for a free email account and there are several companies that offer free email such as Google, Yahoo, or Hotmail. Do not forget to calendar a reminder to check your email account after September 17 to find your electronic ballot in your Inbox. Remember, you must register a valid email address with NALS prior to September 17. No paper ballots will be mailed. Electronic Ballots—How It Works Notice of candidates’ web pages will be noted in e-News. All NALS members should view the candidates’ web pages in advance of opening the electronic ballot (that is, prior to September 17). Viewing a candidate’s web page allows you to learn about the candidate and make an informed decision when voting. Beginning September 17, each NALS member will receive (in the designated valid email account inbox) an email from NALS providing a hyperlink and voting instructions. The hyperlink will take you to your electronic ballot. Once you click on the hyperlink, you must complete the voting process. You cannot click on the hyperlink, close out of your incomplete ballot, and then try to click on the hyperlink again because the hyperlink will be disabled. This procedure is necessary to prevent possible double voting. Completing the ballot is very simple, easy to do, and should take less than a minute. Contested positions will list candidates in alphabetical order, but members should vote for their candidate in order of preference. (i.e., mark you first choice, second choice, third choice, and fourth choice. Do not just put a check number next to one name.) The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 13 This year for the first time you will also be voting on two bylaw amendments. These proposals will be part of your ballot and it is extremely important to NALS that you read the material that has been published online and vote on these important amendments. The ballot will eventually time out if it remains open and idle on your computer. Members should plan to click on the hyperlink and immediately complete the ballot in its entirety. Once you are timed out, you will not be able to get back in a second time. Once your electronic ballot is completed and you cast your vote, your ballot will be sent to an outside source for the counting of the ballots after September 28, 2012. No NALS member, staff member, or Nominations and Elections Committee member can view or count the votes. The elected officers will be announced at the NALS 61st Annual Education Conference & National Forum in Portland, Oregon after all candidates have been notified of the election results. Once voting opens, if you do not see your ballot in your email inbox, please check your spam filter (particularly at work). How Can YOU Help? The NALS Nominations and Elections Committee asks all NALS members to review their own email address on the NALS Directory (available through the NALS website) and to reach out and make direct contact with those members who do not have an email account and assist them with the sign-on process. This opportunity provides a wonderful reason for members to come together and have a “sign-on/log-in/get connected” party. Further, it would be a great excuse for reestablishing contact with members who have not been in attendance recently. Electronic voting is fun, easy, and exciting! This change from the mailing of paper ballots to electronic voting is a positive, proactive response that is in line with members’ requests that NALS “Go Green.” Any questions should be directed to Nominations and Elections Chair Kathleen R. Amirante, PP, PLS, at [email protected] or [email protected] or 517-381-7187; or Staff Liaison April Collins at [email protected] or 918-582-5188. Kathleen R. Amirante, PP, PLS NALS Nominations and Elections Chair The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 14 ============================================ --- MI Court of Appeals Notice --- Effective immediately, Court of Appeals filers who use the File & Serve e-service option must have the prior permission of the recipient to serve filings by e-service rather than by first class mail or by hand delivery. (The fourth method for service, via a filer’s use of self-generated email sent to a recipient pursuant to a stipulation governed by Page 2 MCR 2.107(C)(4), will continue to be handled as directed in that court rule.) A filer can establish the recipient’s permission to use File & Serve e-service by including with the filing a brief statement that the recipients have agreed to e-service in that case either (1) through newly received case-specific permission or (2) because each recipient is included in the List of Approved E-mail Addresses for E-Service. Prior permission is required only once per case, not for each filing in a case. Further, if a party makes an electronic filing in a case, that act constitutes that party’s agreement to be e-served with filings from other parties in the same Court of Appeals file. --submitted by Vicki Ballinger, PLS, NALS of Lansing ============================================ The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 15 2012-13 Order Form for Finance Items Name: ___________________________ Delivery Address: _________________________ _________________________________ Phone: ___________________________ E-mail: ___________________________ Size Product* Color Price DuraHyde Padfolio (NEW ITEM) $25.00 8 GB USB Flash Drives (NEW ITEM) NALS of Michigan Pins 50th Anniversary Commemorative T-shirts (S/M/L/XL) Golf/Pique Shirts (L/XL) – red, mint green, salmon, light blue NALS of Michigan Cardigan (L) - red NALS Oxford Shirts (M/XL/XXL) – coral, blue 50th Anniversary Hoodie (XXL) – brown $12.00 $ 3.00 NALS of Michigan Navy Blue Hoodies (S/M/L) (XL/XXL) Insulated Recyclable Bag w: 2 Regular Recyclable Bags NALS of Michigan Aluminum Can Holders Quantity $ 2.50 $ 5.00 $ 5.00 $ 5.00 $12.50 $20.00 $22.50 $10.00 $ 5.00 ORDER TOTAL: Shipping (price is per item): $ 3.00 FINAL ORDER TOTAL w/Shipping: Make checks payable to: NALS of Michigan Return this form to: Beverly A. Bishop, PLS NALS of Michigan Finance Committee 4001 Sierra Heights Holt, MI 48842 517-881-8061 [email protected] *Be sure to call ahead to confirm size and color availability Total The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 16 2012-2013 NALS of Michigan Officers President Marketing Director Janet R. VandenBerg, ALS 8060 M-68, P.O. Box 57 Alanson, MI 49706-0057 (231) 330-7210 [email protected] Vicki L. Ballinger, PLS Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC 313 South Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933 (517) 371-8232 [email protected] President-Elect Teresa M. Garber, PP, PLS Varnum LLP 333 Bridge Street, NW, Suite 1700 P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0352 (616) 336-6673 [email protected] Membership Director Diane Y. Berry, PLS Plunkett Cooney 950 Trade Centre Way Ste 310 Portage, MI 49002-0493 (269) 226-8860 [email protected] Executive Secretary Wil Antonides, ALS 3914 Courtyard Place SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 307-0177 [email protected] Treasurer Patricia A. Conor, PP, PLS 29440 Heritage Lane Paw Paw, MI 49079-5272 (269) 377-2794 [email protected] Certification/Education Director Renee M. Stout, PP, PLS Jay Zelenock Law Firm PLC 160 East State St., Suite #203 Traverse City, MI 49685 (231) 929-9529 [email protected] Immediate Past President Sandy J. Lavender, CHRS Clark Hill PLC 500 Woodward Avenue, Suite 3500 Detroit, MI 48226 (313) 965-8316 [email protected] Parliamentarian Roxann Repasy 3107 Primrose Lane Ypsilanti, MI 48197-3214 (734) 930-2406 [email protected] The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 17 2012-2013 COMMITTEES 2013 Annual Meeting Vicki Ballinger, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Chair) 2014 Annual Meeting Grand Traverse Area LP (Chair) Certification Director, Renee Stout, PP, PLS, Grand Traverse Area LP Laura L. Jousma, PP, PLS, NALS of West Michigan (Chair) Credentials Beverly Bishop, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Chair) Finance Beverly Bishop, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Co-chair) NALS of Lansing (Committee) Financial Review Kay Neumann, PLS, Mid-Michigan ALSP (Chair) Legal Education Director, Renee Stout, PP, PLS, Grand Traverse Area LP Vacant (Co-chair) Legal Professional of the Year Cynthia A. Taylor, PP, PLS, NALS of Northern Michigan (Chair) NALS of Northern Michigan (Committee) Marketing/Public Relations Director, Vicki Ballinger, PLS, NALS of Lansing Janette M. Olexa, PP, PLS, CPS, NALS of West Michigan (Member) Jeanette Ransom, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Member) Membership Director, Diane Y. Berry, PLS, NALS of Greater Kalamazoo Nominations Heidi Hopper, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Chair) Cheryl Zorn, PLS, NALS of West Michigan Janette S. Carras, NALS of Jackson County The Official Record Fall 2012 ▬ Page 18 Past Presidents’ Council Dolores Oliver, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Chair) Permanent History Marion R. Stone, PP, PLS, NALS of Jackson County (Chair) Scholarship Gloria Gonzales, Mid-Michigan ALSP (Chair) Scholarship Endowment Fund (tentative) Ruth M. Schaub, PP, PLS, Grand Traverse Area LP (Chair) State Bar Liaison Sharon E. Bradley, PLS, CER, NALS of Calhoun County (Chair) State Publication Lucinda M. Broecker, NALS of Greater Kalamazoo (Editor & Circulation) Kathleen R. Amirante, PP, PLS, NALS of Lansing (Articles) Strategic Plan Teresa M. Garber, PP, PLS, NALS of West Michigan (Chair) Other members of the EC Website Patricia Emerson, PP, PLS, NALS of West Michigan (Chair) Legal Recruiting News | Legal Search & Management, Inc. Page 1 of 1 This article is a reprint from the Legal Recruiting News, published by Legal Search & Management, Inc. May 2012. www.legalsearchonline.net Search Linda S. Jevahirian, President Global Career Development Facilitator LEGAL SEARCH & MANAGEMENT, INC. Recruiting Placement Career Planning Home | Recruiting | Placement | Career Planning | News | Events | About Us | Contact Home > Recruiting > Recruiting News More News Legal Recruiting News LEGAL SEARCH & MANAGEMENT, INC. WWw.legalsearchonline.net Individuals who earn NALS certificates strive to be at the top of their rank in competitive law environments. Attorneys Benefit When Hiring Certified Legal Support Staff Linda S. Jevahirian I was honored to speak at the NALS Certification Luncheon that took place in April 2012 at the Detroit Greektown Casino Hotel. NALS is a national organization that supports legal secretaries, legal assistants and paralegals. The luncheon recognized the newest Michigan recipients of the ALS (Accredited Legal Secretary), the PLS (Professional Legal Secretary) and the PP (Professional Paralegal). The pursuit of a NALS certificate is a voluntary, studious and time consuming commitment. Each certificate focuses on an increasingly higher level of knowledge in the areas of responsibility, discipline, ethics, human interaction, initiative, judgment, legal terminology, office and legal procedures, substantive legal documentation, and written and oral communication. The lawyers who hire them benefit from the integrity and professionalism they bring to their organization. Individuals who earn NALS certificates meet challenging personal and professional goals, and strive to be at the top of their rank in competitive law environments. They are distinguished by their motivation for career success and advancement. The lawyers who hire them benefit from the integrity and professionalism they bring to the practice of law. Law firms and corporate legal departments interested in hiring legal support staff who are as deeply committed, and as exceptional as the professionals I encountered at the NALS Certification Luncheon can call Legal Search & Management, Inc. for more information (248) 471-3443. © 2012 Legal Search & Management, Inc. All Rights Reserved. LEGAL SEARCH & MANAGEMENT, INC. A legal search firm and employment agency based in Detroit, Michigan offering recruiting, permanent placement, temporary staffing and career coaching since 1990 Attorneys · Partners · Law Firm Mergers · Corporate Counsel · Paralegals · Legal Secretaries · Paralegal Managers Legal Administrators · Contract Administrators · IT Managers and Support · Litigation Support Managers Policy Statement (248) 471-3443 | [email protected] | www.legalsearchonline.net 27600 Farmington Road, Suite 203C | Farmington, MI 48334 © 2012 Legal Search & Management, Inc. All Rights Reserved. http://www.legalsearchonline.net/legal_recruiting_news.html 5/25/2012 This year’s campaign begins March 1, 2012 through January 31, 2013. This campaign rewards the individual member that recruits 5 new members within the same membership classification, in other words, if you are a regular member who pays $98 national dues then you must sign up five new members in that same classification. The new members must report you as their sponsor when they submit their application to NALS. Once all five new members have been recruited, the member must complete a form, available online, listing all the new members and submit to the NALS Resource Center. After the form is received and new members confirmed, the recruiter will be notified and their national dues waived for the year. The member will still be responsible to pay their state/local dues where applicable. If you are a Life Member or if the individual member’s firm pays their dues, then NALS will give the member a $98 credit voucher which can be used for conference registrations, store purchases, certification fees or WebEd seminars. The full face value of the voucher must be redeemed at the same time when submitted. No credit for unused amounts will be accepted. All RD’s, state and local membership chairs will be kept in the loop and recognition of the members signing up new members or “super stars” as we will call them will be at a high level in communications and conferences on all levels. ENGAGE 5 APPLICATION FOR WAIVER OF NALS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES FOR RECRUITING FIVE NEW MEMBERS Any NALS member that completes this form and recruits five NEW members from March 1, 2012 through January 31, 2013 will get their national dues waived for the year(this excludes state/local dues). The five new memberships must be in the same classification of membership as the waived membership, for example if you are a regular member who pays $98 national dues then you must sign up five new member in that same classification. The new member must report you as their sponsor when they submit their application to NALS. You must complete the pdf waiver form that will be available on line and submit to the Resource Center. You will indicate all five NEW members by name that you sponsored. As long as everything matches up and all five new members have been acquired within the time frame, the national dues will be waived for the year and you will only be required to pay state and local dues. Five New Members Listed Below and Member # if known. 1. Member #____________ Name__________________________________________ 2. Member #____________ Name__________________________________________ 3. Member #____________ Name__________________________________________ 4. Member #____________ Name__________________________________________ 5. Member #____________ Name__________________________________________ By signature upon this form, I am stating truthfully, my dues are currently due and I have recruited five new members which meet the qualifications for waiver of dues. Also, included is my payment of state and local dues where applicable. _______________________________________________________________________ Applicant’s signature OR I am a Life Member OR my firm currently pays my national dues and I am stating truthfully, my dues are currently due and I have recruited five new members. I am applying for a credit voucher of $98 to be used all at one time for conference registration, store purchases, certification fees or WebEd seminars. No credits for unused amounts will be accepted. Also, included is payment of state and local dues where applicable. _______________________________________________________________________ Applicant’s Signature