mediation
A profession is an occupation requiring of the arts of sciences and advanced study in a specialized field, such as the law. It most cases it requires a specific standard of mandated field of study. In today's standard of a paralegal is defined as: A person sufficiently trained or experienced in the law and legal procedures to assist, under an attorney's supervision, in the performance of substantive legal work that would otherwise be performed by any attorney. This definition is however lacks a certain accuracy, because in addition to all those things a paralegal is also a professional. This status however controversial, has not been granted because of the lack of mandatory statutes requiring a license.The time has long since passed when a paralegal could enter the profession without formal education. Currently many employers prefer paralegal candidates with the following background: (1) a bachelor degree from a four-year institution; (2) paralegal training, preferable from an ABA approved paralegal program; and (3) hands-on practical and work related training such as that obtained through an internship or externship. However, many are contemplating the further requirement of a license.
The legal profession is built solely on a foundation of trust and adherence to a code of professional conduct by paralegals is the most crucial element in the growth and acceptance of this career field. In an attempt to establish a standard or voluntary licensing plan NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations) understood that it was the goal of the Committee to create a system that would provide minimum standards for paralegal education and practice. Even the Supreme Court realized the importance stating:It has frequently been recognized in the lower courts that paralegals are capable of carrying out many tasks, under the supervision of an attorney, that might otherwise be performed by a lawyer and billed at a higher rate. Model Act for Paralegal Licensure. As of now there is in excess of 800 formal paralegal training programs throughout the United States. Because there are so many other individual paralegals whom are not practicing under the supervision of an attorney there is always a question of whether or not their conduction of business is within the ethical standards and are not practicing the Unauthorized Practice of Law. Additionally, there are at least four institutions that offer masters degrees in paralegal studies. Professional licensing mechanisms are designed to protect the public and to control entry into an occupation. Although the Committee promulgates "Rules for Licensure of Paralegals," ("Rules") there is no indication in the report that the plan is truly a licensing program. NFPA respectfully suggests that if the Committee's intent is a true licensing plan, it should also recommend that the program be mandatory in order to create a fair and equitable means to regulate the profession.
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Acceptance Essays
