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Chapter Nineteen. Law and Technology: A Paralegal Perspective . General Office Procedures. Client File : the office file that contains copies of all documents related to the client’s case
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Chapter Nineteen Law and Technology: A Paralegal Perspective Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
General Office Procedures • Client File: the office file that contains copies of all documents related to the client’s case • Ledger Sheet: a book-keeping document used to record all expenditures and income in connection with the case Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
Calendaring • Master Calendar: a calendar that details all appointments and appearances of all attorneys in the firm. • Statute of Limitations: a law that places a time limit on when a lawsuit can be filed. • Tickler System: a calendaring system used to keep track of dates or time limits for action that needs to be taken in a case. Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
Billing Law offices are businesses. They must take in fees and pay operating expenses. Attorneys bill for their services in three main ways: 1. an hourly rate for time spent on a case 2. a flat rate (fixed amount) to handle the matter 3. a contingent fee (fixed percentage of what is recovered Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
Confirming Letter Appointment Letter Cover Letter Information Letter Opinion Letter Demand Letter Common Types of Legal Correspondence Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
E-Mail (electronic mail) The Internet has made e-mail a viable means of business communication. It is quick and it is more confidential than faxing. Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition
Prepare ahead of time Arrange a proper setting Introduce yourself as a paralegal Ask general questions, followed by specific questions Avoid leading questions Take copious notes during the interview Review your checklist and notes before ending the interview Never give legal advice during a client interview After ending the interview, make sure your notes are legible Interviewing Clients and Witnesses Hames/Ekern: Introduction to Law, 3rd edition