WHAT'S GOING ON IN OUR STATE
Our Association has been monitoring the activity in other states as our profession is defined by regulation and certification issues.
On July 17, 2005 a focus group comprised of Montgomery area attorneys was
conducted by
Faulkner University. The group discussed the regulation/certification of
paralegals, educational/training requirements needed, and ways to increase the
profitability of paralegals in the local firms.
On January 7, 2006, paralegals,
attorneys, and college directors from throughout our state came together to discuss
the needs of our growing
profession, including education, training, and certification. A Task Force
was formed with goals of defining the term "paralegal" for presentation to
the Alabama State Bar for adoption and to create a working relationship between
paralegal associations and the local and state bar associations. The Task
Force will also be studying minimum
standards for paralegals and the accreditation possibilities in the future.
AAPi will continue to stay on top of things and keep our membership updated with the information.
ALABAMA STATE BAR NEEDS OUR HELP!!
The Alabama State Bar has asked AAPi members to assist its members (in association with the Volunteer Lawyers' Section of the Bar and Legal Services Alabama) with providing legal services to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. If you are would like to volunteer for this, please contact Becky Shipes @ bshipes@burr.com.
You can reach the Alabama State Bar at www.alabar.org or 334-269-1515