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TYPES OF REGULATION. Robert S. Hrouda, RP National Federation of Paralegal Associations, VPPI. Purpose of Regulation. We all have reasons to want regulation Protection of Consumers. Regulated Professionals. CPA RN Real Estate Salesman Barber. Not Regulated. Chefs.
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TYPES OF REGULATION Robert S. Hrouda, RP National Federation of Paralegal Associations, VPPI
Purpose of Regulation • We all have reasons to want regulation • Protection of Consumers
Regulated Professionals • CPA • RN • Real Estate Salesman • Barber
Not Regulated • Chefs
Various Ways to Regulate • Full governmental regulation • Self regulation
Interesting Notes from PA • Disciplinary Board member said self regulate first • Said Nationals have to work together • PA Bar opposes any attempt to define paralegal
National Regulation Schemes • Through Bar Association • Through Legislation • Self Regulation
Types of Regulation • Registration • Certification • Licensure
Registration • List names with an association or agency • Can be voluntary or mandatory • Usually no education or training requirements
Certification • Usually voluntary • Must meet qualifications (educational, testing, work experience) • Examples – PACE Registered Paralegal, CP, etc. • State voluntary certification programs • Delaware • Pennsylvania
Licensure • Person granted a license to practice • Person met set qualifications in an occupation • Generally most restrictive form of regulation
Regulation Schemes Should Encompass • Disciplinary provisions • Ethical Codes or Standards • Insurance unless under other direct supervision • Ability to be grandfathered in by certain deadline • Other
Why We Need Regulation • Strengthen the profession • Students • “Summer interns” • Provide quality, cost effective, legal services
What’s Out There • We will hear a lot more later • California legislation defines paralegal • Connecticut just tried to get rid of paralegals • Florida proposed legislature • Other states are following
What We Need to Overcome • Need to work together • Scared attorneys • Bad “paralegal” entities