The first assignment in most paralegal programs seems to be for the student to meet with a working paralegal and ask some variation of this question. Here’s my answer. Students are welcome to use it.
Listens, watches and perceives what is meant, as well as what is said.
Has an inquiring mind–i.e., is a natural born snoop and eavesdropper and can read upside down.
Gathers information and stores it away like a magpie because it’s likely to come in handy at some point in the future.
Develops an intuitive sense of the law and is prepared to accept its contradictions.
Can diagram a whole paragraph as if it were a single sentence (which it may be) and can demonstrate the relationship and effect of the various clauses on one another.
Can converse in speech and in writing with anybody about anything, and cultivates a wide variety of connections.
Knows that “verbal” means words and can apply to written or oral communication.
Appreciates the significance of “verbal” and “non-verbal” because non-verbal actions can be significant as well–such as a handshake indicating a meeting of the minds in the matter of an oral contract.
Accepts that it’s better to appear stupid than to risk giving unlicensed legal advice.
Also understands that accurately communicating information between an attorney and a client does not constitute giving legal advice.
Understands that the words organize, organized, and organizing have less to do with a tidy desk than they do with ways of thinking and is able to operate within a variety of organizational systems.
Knows that the most important part of getting an answer is the proper framing of the question and continuously works to develop that skill.
Operates within a personal frame of legal ethics, being prepared to be persuaded of the propriety of a course of dealing, and being equally prepared to act, or refuse to act, in the face of impropriety.
When using a paper reference book, always checks the supplement.
Knows that careful adherence to all rights, protections and procedures under the law is vital for the protection of the individual rights of all citizens.
Wendy Kimbel, ACP, NCCP
Paralegal Assistance, Inc.
Mebane NC 27302
The Dragon Lady 