Saturday, October 15, 2011
Day three update
Cleveland Association of Paralegals wins Association Probono Award at the convention!
NFPA Convention Day Two
Day Two of the NFPA Convention-
Region III meeting took place today and we discussed several important topics. Including those agenda topics that I had you all look at and vote on before I came to convention. (See earlier blog post for SurveyMonkey link). A few of the agenda topics that we discussed ended up on the administrative calendar. These topics included the resolution regarding the CLE's (number 2 on my list of potential policy changes), the charity designation (#13 on my list), the Trademark use (#6 on my list), PCC and PACE Accountings (#9 and #10). The reason these are moved to the administration calendar is because these items are considered more administrative matters than policy matters. The policy matters are actually added to the bylaws, whereas administrative matters are considered items that are internal matters. You do have a voice in these administrative matters. I will keep you updated on administrative changes and if you have problems I can either direct your concerns to the correct person, or I can give you the name and contact information of the correct person to contact.
If you ever need to contact a board member or our region director, please let me know. You can also find that information on the NFPA website (www.paralegals.org).
As of 10/12/11 there were 8,545 members from local associations (like us), 169 individual members, 106 individual students, 6 individual military, 2 associate members.
The NFPA has two professional exams. The first, of course, is PACE. This one has been around for a while, although we only have a small handful of RP's (Registered Paralegals). Over the next 12 months, I would like to help you become PACE RP's. This is a fantastic opportunity and nationally recognized. The PACE Exam has much of the same qualifications as the Ohio State Bar Association exam. There are classes and study guides available on the NFPA website and I will work on keeping you updated on these.
The other exam is the PCC exam. This allows those professionals who do not qualify for PACE (or the OSBA Exam) to become registered paralegals. The registration for this exam will be available on November 1. This is a great opportunity for students and younger paralegals to become credentialed. I will work on getting this info to you as well.
The new membership list that is online is getting some updates so it is more "user friendly" (especially to poor Marcia Smith who has to deal with it the most). You can actually update your own profile information, however, I would say please let either myself or Marcia do it as this only updates the information for the CBA. If you do not tell Marcia or I you have changed information and you change it on the NFPA website, we cannot promise that it will be changed in the CBA database. So, again, please let myself and Marcia be the only ones you contact for this! Marcia's email is marcia@cbalaw.org.
Another cool thing about the membership list is you can chose whether or not you want to receive third party mailings, if you want to receive the Paralegal Reporter by e-mail instead of mail, or if you want to opt out of the e-mails from the NFPA (not the e-mails from myself, CBA or PACO).
As I always say, you need to visit the website, there is tons of information so check it out www.paralegals.org. Right now, the password is pcc exam (don't forget the space) for the membership information. It will change and I'll let you know when it does. We're also getting a new website soon so stay tuned :)
That's all for now, look for my complete report on the Region III meeting and the Policy meeting when I return. Oh, and pictures to come later as well as the Mall of America is just amazing. We were there for a social on the evening of day two.
Day three is the policy meeting. This is where the business is conducted. Any questions, please shoot me an e-mail (tricia.mays@dinslaw.com or nfpa@pacoparalegals.org).
Thanks, much love, from your NFPA Primary Tricia Mays
Region III meeting took place today and we discussed several important topics. Including those agenda topics that I had you all look at and vote on before I came to convention. (See earlier blog post for SurveyMonkey link). A few of the agenda topics that we discussed ended up on the administrative calendar. These topics included the resolution regarding the CLE's (number 2 on my list of potential policy changes), the charity designation (#13 on my list), the Trademark use (#6 on my list), PCC and PACE Accountings (#9 and #10). The reason these are moved to the administration calendar is because these items are considered more administrative matters than policy matters. The policy matters are actually added to the bylaws, whereas administrative matters are considered items that are internal matters. You do have a voice in these administrative matters. I will keep you updated on administrative changes and if you have problems I can either direct your concerns to the correct person, or I can give you the name and contact information of the correct person to contact.
If you ever need to contact a board member or our region director, please let me know. You can also find that information on the NFPA website (www.paralegals.org).
As of 10/12/11 there were 8,545 members from local associations (like us), 169 individual members, 106 individual students, 6 individual military, 2 associate members.
The NFPA has two professional exams. The first, of course, is PACE. This one has been around for a while, although we only have a small handful of RP's (Registered Paralegals). Over the next 12 months, I would like to help you become PACE RP's. This is a fantastic opportunity and nationally recognized. The PACE Exam has much of the same qualifications as the Ohio State Bar Association exam. There are classes and study guides available on the NFPA website and I will work on keeping you updated on these.
The other exam is the PCC exam. This allows those professionals who do not qualify for PACE (or the OSBA Exam) to become registered paralegals. The registration for this exam will be available on November 1. This is a great opportunity for students and younger paralegals to become credentialed. I will work on getting this info to you as well.
The new membership list that is online is getting some updates so it is more "user friendly" (especially to poor Marcia Smith who has to deal with it the most). You can actually update your own profile information, however, I would say please let either myself or Marcia do it as this only updates the information for the CBA. If you do not tell Marcia or I you have changed information and you change it on the NFPA website, we cannot promise that it will be changed in the CBA database. So, again, please let myself and Marcia be the only ones you contact for this! Marcia's email is marcia@cbalaw.org.
Another cool thing about the membership list is you can chose whether or not you want to receive third party mailings, if you want to receive the Paralegal Reporter by e-mail instead of mail, or if you want to opt out of the e-mails from the NFPA (not the e-mails from myself, CBA or PACO).
As I always say, you need to visit the website, there is tons of information so check it out www.paralegals.org. Right now, the password is pcc exam (don't forget the space) for the membership information. It will change and I'll let you know when it does. We're also getting a new website soon so stay tuned :)
That's all for now, look for my complete report on the Region III meeting and the Policy meeting when I return. Oh, and pictures to come later as well as the Mall of America is just amazing. We were there for a social on the evening of day two.
Day three is the policy meeting. This is where the business is conducted. Any questions, please shoot me an e-mail (tricia.mays@dinslaw.com or nfpa@pacoparalegals.org).
Thanks, much love, from your NFPA Primary Tricia Mays
Friday, October 14, 2011
NFPA convention day one
Welcome to Minneapolis, Mn. Day one (10/13/11):
The first day is generally a CLE day so I learned a lot of stuff that I will use in some future blogs.
We are staying down the street from the famed Mall of America, and yes I have been there. I'll post photos.
Next few days will be NFPA business. Thank you to everyone who sent comments for the policy meetings. They are going to come in handy.
Friday is the Region meeting where we will discuss more buiness.
The first day is generally a CLE day so I learned a lot of stuff that I will use in some future blogs.
We are staying down the street from the famed Mall of America, and yes I have been there. I'll post photos.
Next few days will be NFPA business. Thank you to everyone who sent comments for the policy meetings. They are going to come in handy.
Friday is the Region meeting where we will discuss more buiness.
Monday, September 19, 2011
2011 NFPA Convention Topics list and other
Hello all,
I realize some of you were at the meeting today and saw this list of topics. For those of you who were not, or for those of you who would rather look at the topics and give me your votes online, I have established a survey monkey account. Please note, I had to use two separate surveys as they will only let me put 10 questions per survey for free (otherwise, they start charging). Here are the links:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/V7F7TM5 (Topics 1-10)
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VY8XLMQ (Topics 11-13)
Please take the time to vote, this determines how I vote on behalf of our association at the convention. Deadline for this is October 7, 2011.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Regulation and the State of Florida...are we close?
I received this from the Florida Alliance of Paralegal Associations :
On behalf of the Florida Alliance of Paralegal Associations (FAPA), I am pleased to announce the “birth” of two new bills to require mandatory paralegal regulation for consideration by the Florida Legislature in the session due to begin on March 8, 2011: Senate Bill 1612, and House Bill 1149 (attached for your review.)
FAPA delegates have been working hard during the “gestation” period of these bills. As many parents out there can attest: we’re always a little surprised when we find out exactly what our child looks like when they are born! This is true with these bills as well. They are very different from what we initially proposed, but they carry the “genes” for healthy regulation of the paralegal profession, and we will continue to work hard to develop a viable program under the Florida Supreme Court’s oversight if these bills are passed. As new “parents,” the FAPA board will be very busy over the next few months, but we will try hard to send “pictures” along the way!
All kidding aside, either Bob Hrouda or myself will keep you abreast of the developments on these two bills as we can. I do feel a little like someone in the family has given birth (and I feel a bit like the one who went through labor), and am very proud to spread this news. We are very hopeful for a positive outcome.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Facebook Firing: Is it legal?
Check out this post regarding to firing someone based on Facebook. Good read. Credit to Dinsmore and Shohl.
http://www.dinslaw.com/facebook_firing_nlrb_employees_rights/
http://www.dinslaw.com/facebook_firing_nlrb_employees_rights/
Practical Paralegalism: Top 10 Tips for Brand New Paralegals
Practical Paralegalism: Top 10 Tips for Brand New Paralegals: "Even though I�ve only been blogging since October 2008, I hoard ideas for posts like a magpie hoards food and shiny items. Come to think of ..."
Friday, October 22, 2010
NALA's 2010 National Utilization/Compsentation Survey
2010 Utilization and Compensation
Survey Report Just Released!
Survey Report Just Released!
Friday, October 15, 2010
NFPA Ethics Board-need candidates
If you are interested in being on the Ethics Board, please see below:
Dear Leaders and NFPA members:
I am seeking a candidate to fill the remaining term of Christine Flynn, who was appointed Chair of the Ethics Board at the 2010 NFPA Convention. The candidate needs to be an NFPA Voting Member. The term will begin immediately and expires on July 31, 2011.
The duties and responsibilities of Ethics Board members are set forth in the Procedures Manual, Section 10.0E, as copied below:
10.0E DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
NFPA may be asked to provide its opinion or interpretation of the NFPA Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility, the NFPA Model Disciplinary Rules and respond to related inquires from members, paralegal non-members, and other individuals and entities. The general charges of the Ethics Board are twofold.
1. The Ethics Board shall respond to questions and matters involving ethical conduct, obligations, utilization and/or discipline of paralegals
2. The Ethics Board shall identify and respond to ethical issues on which interpretations or advice should be generated.
The procedures for selection are set forth in the Procedures Manual, Section 10.0C, a copy of which is set forth below:
10.0C PROCEDURE FOR SELECTION: Any individual interested in appointment to the Ethics Board should provide a resume and letter of interest to the Vice President and Director of Position and Issues. It is recommended that non-NFPA members have demonstrated expertise in the area of ethics through published works, teaching experience, or other activities. It is recommended that NFPA members have a minimum of five years experience as a paralegal as well as demonstrated activities in or knowledge of ethics and NFPA positions.
NFPA members must be voting members.
The deadline for letters of interest and resumes is Friday, October 28, 2010. Letters of interest and resumes should be sent to the Vice President and Director of Positions and Issues at VPPI@paralegals.org. Thank you.
Robert S. Hrouda, RP
NFPA Vice President and Director of Positions and Issues
NFPA - The Leader of the Paralegal Profession ®
NFPA Vice President and Director of Positions and Issues
NFPA - The Leader of the Paralegal Profession ®
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Practical Paralegalism: Top 10 Tips for Brand New Paralegals
I borrowed this from another blog I read a lot, enjoy! (click on the link to read all the text)
Practical Paralegalism: Top 10 Tips for Brand New Paralegals: "Even though I’ve only been blogging since October 2008, I hoard ideas for posts like a magpie hoards food and shiny items. Come to think of ..."
Practical Paralegalism: Top 10 Tips for Brand New Paralegals: "Even though I’ve only been blogging since October 2008, I hoard ideas for posts like a magpie hoards food and shiny items. Come to think of ..."
Monday, October 11, 2010
NFPA 2010 Conference is in the books
Wow, lots of information to digest after the 2010 NFPA Annual Conference in Cherry Hill, NJ/Philadelphia PA.
Saturday and Sunday consisted of a discussion of procedures, adoption of new amendments to the bylaws and other governing documents, and election and installation of new officers. One of the new agenda topics brought to the front of the delegates during the convention was the establishment of an Ad Hoc (fancy word for Exploratory) committee to find out if it would be a good idea to change the US Department of Labor's position on Exempt vs. Non Exempt Employees. Currently Exempt Employees are considered salaried professionals who are not eligible for overtime and Non Exempt are just the opposite. This, again, is just an exploratory committee, no one is going to talk to the Department of Labor just yet. As we get closer to next year's convention, we might be discussing your thoughts on the matter. If you would like to post your opinion on this blog, please feel free. I would like to hear what you have to say about this.
We also discussed the importance of being certified or registered by taking the PACE test offered by the NFPA (or the OSBA Certified Paralegal Test offered of course by the OSBA). The president of the NFPA has issued a challenge to all organizations to have two members to not only take the PACE but to pass and become a Registered Paralegal (RP). There are several benefits to becoming certified:
1. Recognition: With PACE you are recognized on a national stage. Similarly, you are recognized Statewide as a certified paralegal with the OSBA.
2. More for your membership dollar!!!
3. You are maximizing your profit potential. While you will probably not be given an immediate raise by your firm, you will be seen as a more experienced paralegal and possibly offered more money if you change positions.
4. You get to put that cool "RP" or "OSBA Certified Paralegal" next your name. And who doesn't like to see that when it comes across in an e-mail.
5. You will help advance the paralegal profession and advance the idea that regulation/certificate is the way to go.
6. Why not???!!!
If you would like more information on taking PACE or CORE which is the new test that will be offered next fall by the NFPA for those who are ineligible to sit for PACE. For more information about CORE, you can e-mail me at nfpa@pacoparalegals.org or go to the NFPA website (http://www.paralegals.org/)
Also at http://www.paralegals.org/ is a list of your new NFPA officers.
In order to access member content, by the way, on the NFPA website (and you must be a PACO/NFPA member to do so) please e-mail me for a password.
If you have ANY questions on what your NFPA can do for you, please let me know!
Saturday and Sunday consisted of a discussion of procedures, adoption of new amendments to the bylaws and other governing documents, and election and installation of new officers. One of the new agenda topics brought to the front of the delegates during the convention was the establishment of an Ad Hoc (fancy word for Exploratory) committee to find out if it would be a good idea to change the US Department of Labor's position on Exempt vs. Non Exempt Employees. Currently Exempt Employees are considered salaried professionals who are not eligible for overtime and Non Exempt are just the opposite. This, again, is just an exploratory committee, no one is going to talk to the Department of Labor just yet. As we get closer to next year's convention, we might be discussing your thoughts on the matter. If you would like to post your opinion on this blog, please feel free. I would like to hear what you have to say about this.
We also discussed the importance of being certified or registered by taking the PACE test offered by the NFPA (or the OSBA Certified Paralegal Test offered of course by the OSBA). The president of the NFPA has issued a challenge to all organizations to have two members to not only take the PACE but to pass and become a Registered Paralegal (RP). There are several benefits to becoming certified:
1. Recognition: With PACE you are recognized on a national stage. Similarly, you are recognized Statewide as a certified paralegal with the OSBA.
2. More for your membership dollar!!!
3. You are maximizing your profit potential. While you will probably not be given an immediate raise by your firm, you will be seen as a more experienced paralegal and possibly offered more money if you change positions.
4. You get to put that cool "RP" or "OSBA Certified Paralegal" next your name. And who doesn't like to see that when it comes across in an e-mail.
5. You will help advance the paralegal profession and advance the idea that regulation/certificate is the way to go.
6. Why not???!!!
If you would like more information on taking PACE or CORE which is the new test that will be offered next fall by the NFPA for those who are ineligible to sit for PACE. For more information about CORE, you can e-mail me at nfpa@pacoparalegals.org or go to the NFPA website (http://www.paralegals.org/)
Also at http://www.paralegals.org/ is a list of your new NFPA officers.
In order to access member content, by the way, on the NFPA website (and you must be a PACO/NFPA member to do so) please e-mail me for a password.
If you have ANY questions on what your NFPA can do for you, please let me know!
More Pictures from NFPA Convention
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