Preparing for the Future
For more than 30 years, NFPA® has assisted the profession in addressing many issues associated with its growth and the inherent role of the paralegal.
Professional Definitions
As the profession has expanded and grown, the membership approved a definition for the paralegal profession. Three categories have become generally accepted: traditional, freelance, and independent. Currently, more than 95% of NFPA's membership are working as traditional paralegals.
Education
As legal matters delegated to paralegals increase in complexity, so do the market demands for educational standards of those entering the paralegal profession, both in terms of general education and formal paralegal training.
NFPA and the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) joined forces to set basic guidelines and principles on which to build a strong foundation to identify quality paralegal education programs. NFPA's Suggested Curriculum for Paralegal Studies and the Guide to a Quality Paralegal Education are available on NFPA's Website here. In addition, NFPA sponsors a representative on the American Bar Association Approval Commission, which works with the Standing Committee on Legal Assistants to evaluate paralegal education programs.
Professionalism and Ethics
The paralegal profession has faced issues regarding professionalism and ethics. Accordingly, in September 1997, NFPA's members merged elements of two previously adopted documents, the Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and Model Disciplinary Rules. The merged document, Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and Guidelines for Enforcement (Model Code and Guidelines), shows the commitment of NFPA's membership to increase the quality and efficiency of legal services. It also recognizes the profession's responsibility to the legal community and the consumer.
The Model Code and Guidelines provides paralegals with ethical standards and disciplinary guidelines for breach of those standards. NFPA is assisting paralegals who have an interest in adapting this Model Code and Guidelines to their local jurisdictions. It also offers ethical opinions to assist the profession with complex legal issues.
Expanding Role
Throughout its history, NFPA has recognized and met its commitment to examine issues and explore new and innovative means by which legal services at moderate rates may be made more generally available. NFPA will continue to assist the profession in validating and expanding the role of paralegals, and by responding to issues and events proposed by various legal organizations and other groups. NFPA continues its commitment to ensure the independence of the paralegal profession and the vital role played by paralegals in the delivery of quality legal services.
Internet
NFPA was the first legal association to establish a presence on the Internet. This presence provides a wealth of information to the world, including a worldwide paralegal network and vendor service.
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