Episodes
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In this episode, learn how taking complete ownership—not just completing tasks—can elevate your professional standing. Explore why ownership builds trust with attorneys, how it enhances job security and opens doors for career progression, and practical ways to implement this mindset in your daily work. By adopting a proactive approach and focusing on continuous improvement, you can position yourself as an invaluable asset to any legal team.
View the video tip for how to be a proactive paralegal here!
View and sign up for the "Project Management for Paralegals" Program here!
Key Takeaways:
Taking Ownership: Paralegals should fully own their work, treating projects as their responsibility from start to finish.
Act as a Project Manager: Go beyond merely completing tasks; approach assignments with a project management mindset to enhance accountability and success.
No Excuses: Excuses are not well-tolerated in legal environments. Paralegals should focus on problem-solving rather than explaining what went wrong.
Anticipate Needs: Proactively anticipate potential issues or needs within a project rather than waiting for instructions.
Exceed Expectations: Going the extra mile, even on small tasks, helps paralegals stand out. It’s often noticed and appreciated by attorneys.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode, guest host Linda Odermott delve into regulatory reforms in the legal profession. Linda discusses significant changes, including the introduction of regulatory sandboxes in states like Arizona, which allow for innovative legal services to be tested in a controlled environment. The episode highlights Arizona's initiatives to improve access to justice through alternative business structures and the creation of licensed paraprofessionals. These reforms aim to diversify legal service providers and enhance the availability of legal support, particularly in underserved areas.
Key Takeaways:
There is a push for legal regulation reform due to high costs and limited access to legal services, with federal regulations estimated to cost around $2.1 trillion annually.
Arizona introduced a "regulatory sandbox" allowing businesses to operate with reduced regulations for a set period to encourage innovation while maintaining consumer protection. After the trial, lawmakers evaluate what worked.
Arizona's LP program allows non-attorney professionals to provide specific legal services, such as document preparation, giving legal advice, and court appearances, in limited practice areas like family law, civil law, administrative law, and misdemeanor criminal law.
Two-thirds of Arizona counties are considered "legal deserts," with fewer than one lawyer per 1,000 residents, further necessitating reforms to improve access to legal assistance.
Alternative Business Structures allows legal practice entities to be owned or managed by non-lawyers, provided only licensed lawyers practice law. LegalZoom, for example, has entered Arizona’s legal market through an ABS license.
Additional areas for LPs to practice, such as juvenile dependency and adoption, are under consideration, indicating ongoing evolution in Arizona's approach to legal service delivery.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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Missing episodes?
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You can find the episode mentioned, Episode 23: A Refresher of the 7 C's of Paralegal Communication here!
In this episode, Ann discusses seven common communication mistakes paralegals should avoid. Drawing from her experiences and insights from hiring managers and HR professionals, Ann emphasizes the importance of effective communication in the legal profession. Key mistakes include engaging in office gossip, disrespecting colleagues' time, using informal email communication, blurring social media boundaries, discussing client files in public, taking communication personally, and poor phone etiquette.
Key Takeaways:
Respect colleagues' time and appropriate communication timing Maintain professionalism in email communication Set boundaries on social media with supervisors and colleagues Take confidentiality seriously regarding client information Encourage knowledge sharing and professional development within the paralegal communityGet more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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Learn more about the Litigation Associate Training here: https://LitigatorLaunchPad.com
In this episode, Ann Pearson interveiws Olivia Saint Clair Long, a managing partner at her Illinois law firm. They explore the critical traits that contribute to the success of paralegals and associates, emphasizing attention to detail, effective communication, and ownership of work.
Key Takeaways:
Attention to detail, effective communication, and ownership of work are essential for paralegals and associates. Fostering teamwork and a supportive atmosphere is crucial. Being proactive and engaged is vital for career advancement in the legal profession.Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode of the Paralegals on Fire podcast, guest host Linda Odermott delves into Washington State's Limited License Legal Technicians (LLLT) program. She discusses its inception, aimed at improving access to affordable family law services, and the challenges it faced, including political opposition and complex requirements. Despite initial successes, the program was ultimately sunsetted in 2020.
Linda highlights lessons learned, emphasizing stakeholder engagement, incremental growth, and clear success metrics. The episode underscores the evolving role of paralegals in addressing the access to justice crisis.
Key Takeaways:
Promote buy-in from all corners of the legal community and the public. Ensure a wide range of voices in the program's development. Plan for gradual growth and secure diverse funding sources. Invest in attracting both applicants and clients. Set clear goals and metrics for success. Facilitate transitions for seasoned paralegals to boost participation.Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this exciting episode, Kristy Medo dives into the basics of artificial intelligence, specifically tailored to beginners with no prior experience. She discusses her personal journey with AI tools like ChatGPT, sharing insights on how to navigate and utilize these digital advancements effectively. Kristy compares the transformative potential of AI to the historic leap from corded telephones to mobile phones, emphasizing AI’s profound impact on both personal and professional realms.
Kristy also tackles the unique challenges that students and professionals face when integrating AI into their routines. She highlights the importance of developing AI literacy and being cautious of data privacy and the accuracy of AI-generated content. By guiding listeners through an engaging exercise of creating a personalized biography using ChatGPT, Kristy showcases the tool's versatility and the nuances of adjusting tone to achieve authentic communication. Her narrative is not just informative but also scattered with humor, making the complex topic of AI accessible and enjoyable.
Key Takeaways:AI Literacy Importance: Understanding how to use and evaluate AI is crucial for students and professionals alike.
Data Privacy and Accuracy: Be mindful of what information is shared with AI tools and always verify the accuracy of the content generated.
Practical Exercise: Kristy walks through creating a personalized biography using ChatGPT to familiarize users with the platform.
Adjusting Tone and Authenticity: Experimenting with tone in AI-generated content can help align the output with personal communication styles.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode, Ann delves into the correlation between physical wellness and reducing burnout. By emphasizing the importance of prioritizing physical health, she provides practical tips and strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged stress. From the significance of sleep to the benefits of strength training and grounding, Ann offers actionable advice to enhance overall well-being and resilience against burnout.
Key themes covered include the impact of sleep on mental and physical recovery, the importance of regular physical activity, nourishing the body with protein-focused diets, steering clear of ultra-processed foods, and practicing grounding techniques for stress reduction.
Key Takeaways:Prioritize getting a minimum of 7 hours of sleep per night for optimal mental and physical recovery.
Aim for 7000 steps per day to incorporate physical activity into your routine and combat the sedentary lifestyle.
Engage in strength training at least three times a week to improve muscle mass and reduce anxiety levels.
Focus on a protein-focused diet to improve muscle synthesis and sustain energy levels throughout the day.
Practice grounding techniques, such as standing barefoot on the ground or touching nature, to reduce stress, inflammation, and improve overall well-being
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode, Linda Odermott joins as a Guest Host for the podcast. Linda discusses the importance of paralegal licensing and its impact on the legal profession. She shares insights on the evolving landscape of paralegal licensing programs.
Linda is an NFPA certified paralegal, an RP, and an Oregon certified paralegal. She has extensive experience working on access to justice initiatives and regulation reforms, particularly in licensed paralegal programs.
Linda mentions many articles and publications during this episode! If you want to read those and get other resources, visit the blog page for this episode here:
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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Are you stuck in a paralegal position that you don't like and wondering if you even want to be a paralegal?
What if it's not the paralegal career and it's more about the practice area you're working in or the team you're working with?
In this podcast episode, it's a replay from a couple of years ago that you're going to want to listen to for some inspiration!
This is also a great example of what to do if you left the paralegal profession for a few years and want to get back into it but not sure how to do that.
Lisa is the PERFECT example of why you should not give up on your paralegal career! She did (temporarily) and is now in a paralegal job that she absolutely loves.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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Episode Summary:
The Paralegals on Fire podcast features guest host Kristy Medo, a paralegal student sharing actionable strategies for current paralegal students or recent graduates entering the field. Kristy draws from her experience transitioning from the wellness industry to pursuing a paralegal career and landing a remote paralegal position. She encourages students to proactively prepare for their future roles by building resumes, creating LinkedIn profiles, and engaging with industry professionals early on to enhance their marketability.
Kristy emphasizes the importance of thinking like a paralegal even during the student phase, asking questions to gain clarity, and utilizing resources like the podcast for supplemental education. Her journey exemplifies how effective networking, being honest about skill levels, and demonstrating resourcefulness can lead to securing valuable opportunities in the paralegal field.
Key Takeaways:Build a comprehensive resume and LinkedIn profile as a student to showcase relevant skills and experiences.
Proactively reach out to industry professionals, attend networking events, and engage in conversations to build connections.
Develop a web portfolio with work product samples early in the program to demonstrate skills and progress.
Embrace the student phase to ask questions, seek clarity, and utilize available resources for continuous learning.
Transitioning to a paralegal role requires honesty about skill levels, willingness to learn, and problem-solving abilities.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode, Ann delves into the power of curiosity as a paralegal superpower and its role in driving success in the legal profession. Drawing from her own experiences as a paralegal and paralegal manager, Ann emphasizes the importance of curiosity in fostering problem-solving skills, embracing a growth mindset, and utilizing technology to enhance career development. With practical tips and real-life examples, Ann highlights how curiosity can propel paralegals towards continuous learning and professional growth.
👉 Key Takeaways: Curiosity serves as a crucial trait for paralegals, enabling them to investigate, learn, and adapt effectively in various legal scenarios.Embracing a growth mindset allows paralegals to view challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, ultimately fostering curiosity and enhancing decision-making skills.
Leveraging technology mindfully can support paralegals in expanding their knowledge base, conducting in-depth research, and staying ahead in an ever-evolving legal landscape.
Implementing the five w one h method and delving deeper into workflows and processes can optimize efficiency, organization, and performance in paralegal roles.
Continuous learning and exploration through resources like books and podcasts on curiosity at work can nurture curiosity, drive action, and lead to impactful professional development.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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This podcast episode was also recorded as a video! You can watch it on the Paralegal Boot Camp's YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Ns1i8kpeyQw
Technology changes are an opportunity for paralegals to take the lead and be the go-to person on the legal team. AI is that time for paralegals now!
Ann Pearson interviews Jim Sullivan, an attorney-turned-tech person, who is also the co-founder of eDiscovery AI.
Jim gives us insightful tips and thoughts on how AI might affect paralegals and others in the legal industry.
👉 Key Takeaways:
Understanding AI vs. Predictive Coding: Learn the differences and advantages of AI over traditional predictive coding in document review. AI for All Firm Sizes: Discover how both large and small law firms can implement AI to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Practical Uses of AI: See how AI can assist paralegals with everyday tasks, from drafting emails to brainstorming legal arguments. Future-Proof Your Career: Understand why staying ahead of AI trends is essential for career security and professional growth.Connect with Jim Sullivan: https://ediscoveryai.com
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
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In this episode, Ann delves into the essential numbers that paralegals working in law firms with billable hour requirements must track. She breaks down the key metrics of utilization, realization, and productivity, offering valuable advice on how paralegals can improve these numbers and enhance their performance in a competitive legal environment.
To see the calculations that Ann goes through in this episode, you can see them here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-billable-hours-numbers-to-know/
Key Takeaways:Improving utilization, realization, and productivity requires accurate time tracking, effective communication with billing partners, and strategic delegation of tasks to optimize workflow.
Embracing billable hours as an integral aspect of the job role can lead to enhanced performance, increased job security, and career advancement opportunities for paralegals.
Did you know that Ann has a course to help take the stress out of meeting your billable hour requirement?
It's the Billable Hour Boot Camp and it's available here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/courses/billable-hour-boot-camp-for-legal-professionals
She also teaches it as a live 5-part webinar series for law firms wanting to provide this training to their entire team. Learn more about the training here.
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Be the first to get notified of the AI bootcamp by going here.
Learn how to make money on the side by applying to develop a course here.
In this episode, Ann delves into the delicate topic of receiving counteroffers from employers when attempting to transition to a new role. She shares personal experiences and insights to caution against seeking counteroffers solely for a salary increase and highlights the potential pitfalls of this strategy.
By analyzing the reasons why firms might not provide counteroffers, Ann sheds light on the dynamics of such situations and advises listeners on how to approach salary negotiations sensibly.
Key Takeaways:Avoid seeking counteroffers from employers solely for a salary increase, as it may lead to unintended consequences.
Understand the various reasons why firms might not provide counteroffers, such as budget constraints or firm policies.
Approach salary negotiations with transparency and honesty, focusing on the actual value and growth opportunities in a new role.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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Be the first to get notified of the AI bootcamp by going here.
Learn how to make money on the side by applying to develop a course here.
If you're interested in guest hosting, reach out to Ann on LinkedIn here.
In this episode, Ann delivers a series of exciting announcements, including a switch to Tuesday releases, the introduction of guest hosts on the podcast, plans to start recording video episodes, updates on new courses, and an intriguing project on creating online courses for paralegals. From practical strategies for paralegal success to innovative opportunities for skill development, this episode sets the stage for upcoming changes and enhancements to the podcast.
Key Takeaways:Ann Pearson introduces guest hosting opportunities for paralegals specializing in various practice areas.
The podcast will transition to video recordings, offering a new platform for engaging with the audience.
Exciting new courses, including an AI Bootcamp for paralegals, are in the works to enhance professional development.
Listeners can sign up for newsletters and stay updated on upcoming courses and opportunities for growth in the legal field.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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In this episode, host Ann discusses the topic of making mistakes as a paralegal and how to handle them. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and assessing the mistake, notifying the attorney, fixing the mistake, and reflecting and learning from it. Pearson shares a cautionary tale of a secretary who tried to hide a mistake and the negative consequences that followed.
Key Takeaways:Mistakes happen to everyone, even attorneys, and it's important to acknowledge and address them rather than trying to hide or cover them up.
When a mistake occurs, it is crucial to assess how it happened and take responsibility for it. Avoid making excuses or blaming others.
Communicating the mistake to the attorney should be done with honesty, professionalism, and a focus on potential solutions.
Fixing the mistake may involve correcting documents, amending filings, or taking immediate steps to mitigate the impact on clients or cases.
Reflection and learning from the mistake is essential to prevent similar errors in the future. Consider implementing workflows or procedures to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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What is Panic Mode Paralegal? It's that state you're in when you're new to your career, you haven't had any kind of structured on-the-job training, the attorney brings you another last-minute piecemeal project that needs to be done, and you panic, wondering and guessing if you're doing it the right way or not.
It doesn't have to be that way! In this episode, Ann discusses the Litigation Paralegal Career Accelerator method that helps new litigation paralegals move from Panic Mode Paralegal to Confident Case Strategist.
Join Ann inside the Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp if you want to accelerate your paralegal career. She holds monthly live group coaching calls with you for one year to support you as you work through the course video lessons.
Enrollment closes on May 2, 2024. Learn More Here.
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Attorneys have a reputation for being procrastinators. We’ve all seen the memes and jokes about it. They’ve all seen them too. So we assume that’s just the way it is. It’s always been that way, and we have to get used to it.
What if it didn’t have to be that way?
Can you prevent all rush projects with what I’m going to talk about today? No. But what if you could reduce them by 50%? Even more of a reduction would be better, but imagine if you’re currently dealing with one rush project per day, and you could get that down to 2 or 3 per week.
The result is less stress for you and a better work product. Maybe even fewer late nights or weekends.
Listen to the episode for some actionable strategies to reduce the number of rush projects that you have.
Don't forget to reserve your seat in the free live training being held this week - A Roadmap for Six-Figure Earnings: Insider Strategies for New Litigation Paralegals. Ann is holding it at 3 different days and times for you to choose from: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/roadmap
Key Takeaways:New litigation paralegals don't have to wait years to see success and earn a good salary.
Proactive thinking and taking initiative can significantly reduce rush projects and improve work quality.
Changing what you do and how you think can lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding paralegal career.
Having open and honest conversations with attorneys about the impact of last-minute projects can bring about positive change.
Being proactive and staying ahead of deadlines and tasks can help paralegals provide better support to attorneys and clients.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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Join the FREE live training Ann mentions in this episode, the Roadmap to 6-Figure Earnings: Insider Strategies for New Litigation Paralegals, here:
https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/Roadmap
In this episode, Ann shares actionable strategies for legal assistants or other legal professionals who want to get promoted to a paralegal position.
She emphasizes the importance of exceeding expectations in your current role, taking on paralegal projects, getting additional training beyond your paralegal certificate, and asking for the promotion. Ann provides valuable insights and advice for paralegals looking to advance their careers.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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About the Guest:
Lewanda Franklin is an experienced paralegal with over 20 years of experience in the legal field. She has worked in various practice areas, including family law, civil litigation, government affairs, and personal injury. Lewanda is known for her ability to pivot and adapt to different practice areas, continuously expanding her knowledge and skill set. She is currently working on launching her brand, "The Proper Paralegal," which aims to help paralegals achieve work-life balance and professional growth.
Episode Summary:In this episode, Ann Pearson interviews Lewanda Franklin, an experienced paralegal who has successfully pivoted between different practice areas throughout her career. Lewanda shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, self-care, and taking initiative in one's career. She discusses her transition from civil litigation and family law to government affairs, and later to personal injury. Lewanda also shares her advice for paralegals at different stages of their careers, emphasizing the need for self-care, professional development, and the courage to ask for what you want.
Key Takeaways:Lewanda emphasizes the importance of self-care for paralegals, highlighting the need to prioritize physical and mental well-being.
Continuous learning and professional development are crucial for paralegals to stay relevant and advance in their careers.
Paralegals should not be afraid to ask for opportunities and investments in their professional growth.
Pivoting between different practice areas can expand a paralegal's knowledge and skill set, increasing their value to employers.
There is no endpoint in a paralegal's career where they can say they know everything. The legal field is constantly evolving, and paralegals should always strive to learn and improve.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
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