Seminar Schedule
DESCRIPTION OF SEMINARS
NOTE: The Sessions are geared to accommodate three levels of a paralegal's experience. Attendees may"mix and match" their seminar choices based on their individual needs.
Session I Seminars
9:15 – 10:15 AM
Beginner:
So Now What?! Tips for Landing an Entry Level Paralegal Position
Presented by Gerry Grandzol (Senior Director, local Placement Agency)
You’re a new paralegal and want to break into the profession. Tips will include internet job searching; how to network; resume and interviewing tips; expectations for a first or entry level position; salary expectations; temporary positions; recruiters vs. placement agencies; AND what NOT to do including: outdated job searching/interviewing techniques.
Intermediate:
Maxwell Smart: The Paralegal Detective
Presented by Jonathan Gallant, CFE (Private Investigator)
Impress your attorney and learn free and low cost ways to locate people/assets both via the internet and offline. Other areas to be addressed include: What info is NOT available to the general public & what is ONLY available by utilizing a PI? How to find corporate info and agents for process service? Cost effectiveness of in-office paralegal investigation vs. hiring a private investigator.
Advanced:
Trademarks, Copyrights and Patents – Oh My!
Presented by Timothy J. Szuhaj, Esquire
Intangible Assets such as Intellectual Property have become the main assets of many businesses. This session will help you navigate the world of IP. Learn the differences between a copyright, trademark, service mark and patent from an expert as well as touch on the difference between domestic and international law in this area.
Session II Seminars
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Beginner:
Discovery: Soup to Nuts
Presented by Melissa J. Brown, Esq. and Rebecca Watson, NJCP
What is a Case Management Order? How do you know what info to include in interrogatory answers? Why and when to file a discovery Motion? This seminar will cover all aspects of discovery from case inception to pre- trial from both the perspective the attorney and paralegal.
Intermediate:
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): There's More Than One Way to Get Results
Presented by Steven Antinoff, Esq.
Voluntary vs. Mandatory? Arbitration vs. Mediation? Binding vs. Non-binding? What role, if any, do witnesses, experts and parties play, during each of these? Also learn when/why to choose ADR, how to choose an arbitrator or mediator and how to prepare for same vs. preparing for a trial.
Advanced:
“Pray for Peace, Prepare for Trial.” SM – Trial Preparation for the Paralegal
Presented by Richard Grungo, Jr., Esquire
This presentation will provide both practical and technical information to assist paralegals in preparing for trial from the inception of the case through discovery. Tools and tips will be explored to help paralegals fulfill the critical role they play on the trial team.
Session III Seminars
1:15 – 2:15 PM
Beginner:
Introduction to Search Engines
Presented by Kim Walker, RP (Co-Chair of the Technology Committee at Phila. Assoc. of Paralegals)
The various search engines will be discussed (Google, Yahoo, Dogpile, etc.); what types of search results can be expected from each search engine; the best way to search for different info; and much more.
Intermediate:
Legal Research and Writing: Beyond the Basics
Presented by Joseph Zavaglia (Brookdale College)
There are two sides to every story. This session will focus on using your analytical skills when researching and writing. It will also provide a refresher on binding vs. persuasive authority and will be presented by a college professor.
Advanced:
Trial Technology: The Paralegal’s Role in Bringing a Case to Life Through Power Point
Presented by David Wright, Esq., Cynthia Gentile, JD (Pierce College) & Judy Alvelo, NJCP
Here's how to step up your game as a seasoned litigation paralegal and make yourself invaluable to your attorney and firm. Advanced features of Power Point will be presented along with a Mock Trial Closing showcasing the paralegal's role throughout.
Session IV Seminar
2:30 – 3:30 PM
All Attendees:
Paralegal Ethics: Inside and Outside the Office
Presented by Robert Hrouda, RP (VP & Director of Positions and Issues, National Federation of Paralegal Associations) A variety of unusual as well as typical ethical situations will be discussed. So come armed with your questions! Some areas to be covered will be answering client questions; confidentiality (records and other client information); duty to inform; safekeeping property as it pertains to financial transactions and bookkeeping; perspective clients and paralegals who participate in initial consults; signing correspondence; and much more.