Stay Connected

According to Wikipedia, “LISTSERV was the first electronic mailing list software application, consisting of a set of email addresses for a group in which the sender can send one email and it will reach a variety of people.”

Subscribing to a listserv for paralegals is a great way to read what others in our field are discussing and, just as important, an excellent venue to ask questions, seek resources, recommendations, etc.

I currently subscribe to the © Legal Assistant Today listserv. Paralegals from all over the U.S. are a part of this forum and everyone is extremely helpful even if it’s just a trivial question about where to find an ordinance. There are even those who use this forum as a networking tool for job searches. Anyone can subscribe this public listserv, but one tip – you may want to create a separate folder or specific email address just for the listserv because the daily emails received can number as many as 30+. Of course, you can always just go to the link above and read the archives, but participating is much more interesting.

The NFPA® has a listserv for members only and several public listservs:
Educators (education@list.paralegals.org)
Students (students@list.paralegals.org)
Individuals Studying for PACE (PACEStudy@list.paralegals.org)
Military (military@list.paralegals.org)

Whichever listserv you choose, or if you choose them all, they will enhance your learning.

Adding "Notary Public" to your Resume

I’ve been a notary for a number of years now and although I don’t notarize nearly the number of documents I did when I worked for a corporation, I still consider it a valuable asset. For those of you who’ve thought about it, but haven’t gotten around to checking out what’s required, I wanted to share some information that I hope will urge you to consider applying.

First, some minimum requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, free of any felony convictions and be registered to vote at your current address.

You’ll need to apply in the county in which you reside, pass an exam and pay a fee. For example in Montgomery County, the Dayton Bar Association can assist you with the process (109 N. Main Street, Suite 600; 222-7902).

Once you apply and pay a $70 fee, you will receive a booklet which is a guide to the various situations where notary services are needed. The DBA schedules a test the fourth Friday of each month; they’ll also let you know the specific time and location. The test is comprised of 50 questions and a sample auto title. The guidebook isn’t very lengthy but taking the time to review and study its contents is beneficial.

After you've been notified that you’ve passed the exam, you will be commissioned as a Notary Public for five years. You are then given your first journal to record each transaction. You are responsible for purchasing your seal and name stamp (optional) though. You are also responsible for maintaining your commission and, if you move, giving notice to the new county. By the way, even if your employer has paid the exam fee and reimbursed or purchased your notary supplies, the commission and supplies belong to the individual, not the company.

I’ve been a member of the National Notary Association for some time now, too, and this group offers great support and excellent information about the notary profession. It's also a great resource for advice on how to market your notary services which may hold you over until you find that dream job. It's also another way to network with other professionals.

Should you take an interim job?

During your time at SCC taking the required and elective paralegal courses you’ve most likely determined what area of law you prefer to focus on for your job search. I found an article on i-Newswire that reprinted an interview with Debra Benton, an executive coach and author, where she addresses the pros and cons of holding out for that dream job or taking a less-than-ideal job just for the money or experience.

There’s no clear answer to this situation because it depends upon your circumstances. If you are able to financially weather the job-search storm, then you can be more selective. If not, you may have to take a job that doesn’t exactly fit what you would consider a first or second choice. I suspect many of us will fit in the latter category – I know I do.

This article reminded me that even though you may accept a less-than-optimum job offer, you can always learn something while you are there. It’s important to always do your best and produce quality work. You never know if the time you spend gaining that all-important, on-the-job experience or making new contacts, will set you on the track to your ultimate job. No one should stay in a job where you’re not treated with respect though. That’s never worth a paycheck.

Should you add certification to your credentials?

It probably goes without saying that you should never stop learning. So, after we’ve worked so hard to complete SCC’s Paralegal Program, is certification really necessary? Of course not, but I’ve talked to a few paralegals about this and they have all strongly suggested obtaining certification.

The NALA offers detailed information about the certification and claims that there are over 15,000 certified paralegals and more than 1,800 with advanced certification. According to NALA’s website, the CP “credential has been recognized by the American Bar Association as a designation which marks a high level of professional achievement.” It just may give you that extra “edge” towards obtaining a job or advancing in your current job.

Continuing education keeps you up-to-date with the changes in the profession. In fact, staying abreast of the latest changes through continuous education is listed in NALA’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility (Canon #6). Many CLE credits can be obtained via on-line courses, but for those of you who like to travel and prefer in-class training, options are available. Both the NFPA® and NALA offer these educational opportunities.