Paralegal Program Guide: Legal and Office Information

Paralegals take on much of the routine work that lawyers once did themselves. Many use law libraries and computer systems to find information needed for legal cases.

Paralegals function as assistants to attorneys. A typical day includes phone contact, organizing files, and working on tasks given by attorneys.

This program focuses on the Judicial Branch and its role in government. The Supreme Court’s decisions concerning school desegregation, school prayers, abortion, prison overcrowding, the death penalty, and the rights of criminal defendants are explored. Students see how the Court’s decisions affect their daily lives, how it resolves disputes without bloodshed, how it interprets our laws and explains what they mean, and how it prevents the other branches from abusing their power.

Established by the Constitution, The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States.

The Supreme Court's decisions about issues relative to church and state must always err on the side of keeping both entities as separate as possible. This is for the good of religion, religious liberty, and to keep the government clean.

Being well dressed is only one part of presenting a good workplace image… What if you’ve done your best to maintain fast-track skills and are then asked to perform a menial task? This program guides viewers through a breakdown of just what constitutes career-appropriate demeanor. With an emphasis on having a good attitude, the video discusses handling mistakes, determining dress codes, staying abreast of industry trends, workspace appearance, and even kitchen etiquette. A list of specific—and learnable—leadership qualities is provided, while a group of young professionals recounts anecdotes of workplace successes and mistakes throughout.

The way you behave, dress, interact with others, and perform you duties can make or break a career. The secret to advancing is to know how to conduct yourself in every type of work related situation

A focus group describes bad behavior on the job. Professionalism means respectful, courteous behavior in the workplace.Studies indicate that 90% of communication is nonverbal. Do not share personal opinions unrelated to work

A focus group defines and gives examples of workplace etiquette. Keep your work area neat and clean. Help keep common areas clean too. Be prepared for unexpected client visits by keeping extra clothes in the office. Respect personal space.

A focus group discusses interruptions and other problems that can lead to poor time management. Gain control over your duties with these basic tactics: keep a calendar; organize work and space; multi task; and avoid distractions.

Multi-line phones are often used in the work place. They are needed to handle heavy call volume that is acquired in the office. Most offices use multi-line phones so knowledge of handling a multi-line phone is a requirement.

A focus group shares experiences with bad phone etiquette. You should speak softly; restrict speaker-phone use; and identify yourself and the company when receiving calls. Empathize, apologize, and take responsibility when dealing with angry clients.

Attitude, buffering words, representing the company, and smiling when answering the phone create a good first impression.

While actively listening, don't get distracted, grasp the caller's idea, avoid tuning out, listen for key words, and don't interrupt.

When writing a phone message include details. i.e. first and last names, telephone number, company, date, time, details, and ask for clarification.

To calm irate customers begin with a clean slate, listen to their point of view, remain calm, don't interrupt, show empathy, and offer solutions.

While actively listening, don't get distracted, grasp the caller's idea, avoid tuning out, listen for key words, and don't interrupt.

When leaving a message for someone be brief and to the point. State your phone number twice.

E-mail communications should use appropriate business language void of slang and errors. Include a cover sheet for all faxes with the name, return fax number, date, subject, and pages.

A focus group discusses using personal email, texting, and posting to social media while at work. Be cautious about posting personal information online. There is a basic business email format that will ensure professional tone and content.

A meal with the boss, coworkers, or clients calls for best table manners. The host will pay for the meal. Employees should show appreciation for company sponsored events. A focus group gives examples of unacceptable behavior.

Written instructions for an automatic document feeder.

Mark's sister offers tips on memo writing in stages; plan, then write. Main focus: get the information down in a clear and direct manner. Revise and edit for content. Streamline work.

Proofread, eliminating unnecessary words; be sure to identify the audience and the writer; put the main point in subject line; use current date; use active instead of passive words.

Checks memos for spelling and grammatical errors. Remember the basics: plan, write, revise and edit. Reviews subject and audience.

Be friendly and warm in writing to customers. Convey an attitude, called "tone." Avoid formal phrases. Write like you're speaking face-to-face. Personalize it with customer's name.