Essentials of Paralegalism

ESSENTIALS OF PARALEGALISM, FIFTH EDITION, is an introduction to this emerging legal field. It covers primary employment and regulatory issues, including job-search strategies. The material teaches the basic skills paralegals will need when working in the field including interviewing, investigation and analysis at an introductory level. The More-On-the-Net feature provides addresses for Web sites that relate to the theme for each chapter and analysis problems throughout promote analytical thinking skills needed on the job. Concrete examples from paralegal professionals' experience in the work setting give readers an insider's view of this profession.

Preface. How to Study Law in the Classroom and on the Job. PART I THE PARALEGAL IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM. 1. Introduction to a New Career in Law. 2. Paralegal Employment. 3. The Regulation of Paralegals. 4. Attorney Ethics and Paralegal Ethics. 5. Introduction to the Legal System. PART II THE SKILLS OF A PARALEGAL. 6. Introduction to Legal Analysis. 7. Legal Interviewing. 8. Investigation in a Law Office. 9. An Introduction to the Use of Computers in a Law Office. 10. Introduction to Law Office Administration. Appendix A: Paralegal Associations, Bar Associations that Allow Paralegal Membership, and Related Organizations. Appendix B: Paralegal Definitions. Appendix C: Bar Associations and Related. Attorney Organizations. Appendix D: Federal Government. Organization Chart. Appendix E: Starting a Freelance Paralegal Business. Glossary. Index.