This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer

Author Question: Why are careful filing procedures so essential to the practice of law? How might filing procedures ... (Read 92 times)

yoroshambo

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 566
Why are careful filing procedures so essential to the practice of law? How might filing procedures in large and small firms differ?
 
  ?

Question 2

Paralegals must apply professional standards to their e-mail communications and format their e-mail messages appropriately. What are additional guidelines on how to communicate properly with clients using e-mail?
 
  ?



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

nmyers

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 336
Answer to Question 1

Every law firm, regardless of its size or structure, has some kind of established filing procedures. Efficient procedures are vital because the paperwork generated is substantial, and important documents must be safeguarded yet be readily retrievable when needed. If a client file is misplaced or lost, the client may suffer costly harm. Additionally, documents must be filed in such a way as to protect client confidentiality. The duty of confidentiality extensively affects legal work and procedures. This is particularly true of filing procedures. All information received from or about clients, including files and documents, is considered confidential. A breach of confidentiality by a paralegal or other employee can cause the law firm to incur extensive liability.
In small firms, filing procedures may be rather informal, and paralegals may need to assume the responsibility for organizing and developing an efficient and secure filing system. Larger firms normally have specific procedures concerning the creation, maintenance, use, and storage of office files. In larger firms, a supervisor generally trains paralegals in office procedures, including filing. Although the trend today, particularly in larger firms, is toward computerized filing systems, many firms create hard copies to ensure that files are not lost if computer systems crash.

Answer to Question 2

Always print out a copy of your e-mail and retain it in the client's file so that a record exists. Be sure that any e-mail you send discloses your status as a paralegal (to avoid liability for the unauthorized practice of law). Request recipients to verify that important messages have been received (such as when you are notifying a person of a court date). E-mail systems often have a function that allows senders to request a return receipt, which will confirm that the message you sent was received. You should also respond to incoming e-mail promptly so that the sender knows that you have received the e-mail. Finally, make sure that you know the policies of your firm regarding confidential e-mail. If used carefully, e-mail can be an efficient way to fulfill your duties and communicate with the firm's clients.




yoroshambo

  • Member
  • Posts: 566
Reply 2 on: Aug 3, 2018
Wow, this really help


peter

  • Member
  • Posts: 330
Reply 3 on: Yesterday
Gracias!

 

Did you know?

Signs and symptoms of a drug overdose include losing consciousness, fever or sweating, breathing problems, abnormal pulse, and changes in skin color.

Did you know?

A seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the chances you will get seasonal influenza and spread it to others.

Did you know?

Calcitonin is a naturally occurring hormone. In women who are at least 5 years beyond menopause, it slows bone loss and increases spinal bone density.

Did you know?

Allergies play a major part in the health of children. The most prevalent childhood allergies are milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, and seafood.

Did you know?

Elderly adults are at greatest risk of stroke and myocardial infarction and have the most to gain from prophylaxis. Patients ages 60 to 80 years with blood pressures above 160/90 mm Hg should benefit from antihypertensive treatment.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library