Week 10 Lecture Flashcards
4 requirements for lawyer education
- Bachelor’s degree
- Law school
- Bar exam
- continuing legal education
The ABA is beginning to update (1) rules to include (2).
- continuing education
2. technology (e-filing, producing docs, etc.)
4 ways PLs share lawyers’ commitment to education and skill development
- ABA-approve paralegal program
- Bachelor’s degree
- certification (NALA, PACE)
- continuing legal education
5 things encompassed in the definition of competetence
- legal knowledge/skill
- thoroughness/preparation
- diligence
- promptness
- communication with clients
3 ways you should keep communicating with clients
- keep them informed about the status of their matters
- comply with requests for info
- explain matters so clients can make informed decisions (paralegals CANNOT do this, but can provide copies, etc.)
2 things encompassed in “skills” part of competence
- proficiency in the execution of tasks (PL)
2. implementation of legal decisions into action (PL can assist attorney on this)
(1) is one of the most critical aspects of PL competence. Learn all the (2), be (3) about every detail and be (4). Paralegals are valued for their (5) and (6).
- Thoroughness
- facts
- meticulous
- prepared
- knowledge on cases
- attention to detail
persistent attention to a legal matter to ensure it is resolved with the best possible outcome for the client
diligence
meeting all deadlines
promptness
Communication with clients comprises (1) and (2).
- prompt return of phone calls
2. ongoing communication
Malpractice is (1) in the performance of duties by a professional, either (2) or through (3).
- improper conduct
- intentionally
- through negligence
Failure to exercise the standard of care commonly observed in other professionals
professional negligence
5 incompetence issues that may bring disciplinary action
- lack of competence (repeatedly)
- commingling
- conversion
- failure to return client documents after termination ofa matter
- lack of attorney review (no supervision of paralegals, aiding in UPL)
7 of the most commong bases for malpractice claims
- substatntive incompetence (facts, skills, etc.)
- management incompetence (of firm)
- poor communication skills/practices
- fee misunderstandings
- substance abuse/stress
- breach of confidentality
- conflicts of interest (need thorough checks!)
To avoid malpractice suits, (1), (2) and (3) should be carefully drafted.
- letters of engagement
- letters of termination
- fee agreements