We were going over “red flags” when talking to someone representing himself or herself as a advocate or paralegal. We have already covered questions 1-8, now let us continue;
 

• 9. Ask them if they would be willing to sign an agreement, spelling out specifically as to what they will do on your behalf. In many states Paralegals must work directly under the supervision of an attorney, know what your states codes say before attending this meeting, be prepared. Ask if they are working with an attorney.

If they a representing themselves as paralegals they will not know that you are aware of this fact. Ask this person what state they are certified in? Are they hesitant to tell you this? Why?

• 10.  If this person is claiming to be a paralegal here are four of the eight codes of ethics for a paralegal; Copied from; http://www.aapipara.org/Certification.htm

CODE OF ETHICS; THE AMERICAN ALLIANCE OF PARALEGALS, INC.

• 1. A paralegal shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law.
• 2. A paralegal shall keep confidential any and all information, documents and other materials entrusted to him or her or acquired in some other way during the course of the legal representation of a client. The confidentiality shall be maintained before, during and after the legal representation unless the client has given consent or disclosure is required by law or by court order.
• 3. A paralegal shall avoid conflicts of interest and shall immediately disclose any potential conflicts of interest to his or her employer.
• 4. A paralegal shall ensure that his or her status as a paralegal is disclosed at the beginning of any professional relationship with the attorney, client, personnel of a court, or the personnel of an administrative agency.

? Just one more note; If you feel uneasy with this person in any way, back off, there is a reason you feel that way, trust your instincts. You must have confidence in the person who is going to assist in building your case, this is your life as well as the life of your child (ren) we are talking about.  Would you trust your brain surgery to a podiatrist? No you would not…..be careful.  Where to learn nfpcar.org

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