Legal Studies & Paralegal

For courses in Introduction to Paralegalism.

Based on the principle that students are in charge of their own careers, this text provides an insider's look at the paralegal profession—helping new students feel knowledgeable about the environment in which they will practice the skills they are learning. It focuses on concrete examples of behaviors that promote success, and on real-life solutions to real-life problems on the paralegal job front. There is a focus on skill development through stimulating class discussions, showing they are critical to the future success of the paralegal movement.

• A game plan for success that begins in school—Uses real world examples to show the connection between strong classroom performance and securing a job

  • Encourages students to develop professional relationships with the local legal community so that they can capitalize on opportunities that occur while still in school. Ex.___

• Proven job search techniques.

  • Presents students with tactics involved in all aspects of finding potential jobs—including developing a custom-fit resume, approaching interviews, getting and using recommendations, and following up after the interview process. Ex.___

• Interviewing tips—Provides students with the interviewer's point of view on the whole process.

  • Offers students detailed suggestions for successful “networking.” Helps instructors give students ethical information on how to prepare resumes and practical advice about lay out, formats, and even type sizes. Ex.___

• Real-life examples of “first days” on the new job—Includes helpful information about varying law firm cultures.

  • Demonstrates for students how to have a “solid” first month—getting good assignments, setting up a work area, obtaining a mentor, and assessing the personal traits of others to enhance working relationships. Ex.___

• A team-player approach.

  • Explains to students the importance of becoming a trusted member of the team. How to work well with secretaries, difficult clients, lawyers, and co-workers in order to develop support systems within the firm, handle busy times, and hold to high standards. Ex.___

• Coverage on how to have a successful one year review—Includes a helpful worksheet for assessing a job.

  • Shows students how to prepare for reviews, document accomplishments, and negotiate raises, while considering the opportunities for intellectual stimulation, professional development, and even time off. Ex.___

• Critical elements for a successful career.

  • Introduces students to the thought behind establishing relationships with clients, attending firm social functions, negotiating money matters, understanding associates, dressing for court, specializing, assessing job possibilities, continuing education, understanding and participating in law office politics, and maintaining a great attitude. Ex.___

• Emphasis on professional life outside the firm.

  • Familiarizes students with the value of establishing oneself as a legal professional by writing articles, volunteering at law clinics, and teaching or speaking to others about the profession. Ex.___

• A yearlong almanac.

  • Provides students with an exercise of adding up billable hours, volunteer time, and continuing education. Ex.___

• Requisite computer skills.

  • Allows students to explore exciting possibilities for a more satisfying paralegal career, and for transferring legal skills to the business world at large. Ex.___

• A focus on personal life—Profiles four paralegal “superstars.”

  • Shows students it takes time and energy to realize professional goals, and explains how to set realistic expectations, think about professional growth, maintain health, deal with stress, and factor in family and personal needs. Ex.___

• Detailed information on specialties—Includes litigation; audit letter; client liaison; computer; and settlement specialist.

  • Gives students real-world information and examples of five specialties, and explores what the student must do to become a specialist. Ex.___

 1. Going from Good to Great: What's the Big Deal?


 2. From Bookbag to Briefcase: Planning Your Job Search.


 3. Time to Get the Job.


 4. Your First Day on the Job.


 5. Tuesday.


 6. Your First Month: A Solid Start.


 7. Making the Team and Organizing Your Work Life.


 8. Probation Ends.


 9. Dealing with Difficulties and Boosting Your Own Morale.


10. Happy Anniversary.


11. FAQs and Secrets of Success.


12. Effective Change and Promoting Your Goals within the Firm.


13. Back to School: Continuing Education.


14. Law Office Politics.


15. A Successful Paralegal's Almanac.


16. Your Five Year Plan and Other Career-Buildering Files.


17. The Evolution of Paralegal Careers Inside the Firm.


18. Cross Over Hits.


19. Compulsory Computers and other High-Tech Help.


20. Family, Health, and Happiness.


21. Sampler of Superstars.


22. Special Performances and Developing Your Own Area of Expertise.


A. Glossary.


B. Forms and Time Sheets.


C. Professional Standards.


D. Books and Web Sites to Check Out.

Paralegal Internship (Legal Studies & Paralegal)

View a Sample Chapter PDF:

• Legal Studies Supersite
  Prentice Hall
  © 2004 | Prentice Hall | On-line Supplement | Instock
  ISBN-10: 0131131826 | ISBN-13: 9780131131828
  URL: http://www.prenhall.com/legal_studies
  
  
  
• VersusLaw Access Card
  VersusLaw
  © 2004 | Prentice Hall | Access Code Card | Instock
  ISBN-10: 0131185144 | ISBN-13: 9780131185142
  
  
  

Pearson Higher Education offers special pricing when you choose to package your text with other student resources. If you're interested in creating a cost-saving package for your students, contact your Pearson Higher Education representative for pricing and ordering information.

Pearson Higher Education offers special pricing when you choose to package your text with other student resources. If you're interested in creating a cost-saving package for your students contact your Pearson Higher Education representative.