Don't Cross the Line: Top Mistakes Paralegals Make That Cross into UPL

ABA Model Rule 5.3 requires lawyers who manage a law firm or directly supervise nonlawyers to make reasonable efforts to ensure that nonlawyers employed or retained by the lawyer or firm conduct themselves in a manner consistent with lawyers' professional conduct rules. The ABA has emphasized paralegals' independent duty to avoid UPL (Unauthorized Practice of Law). Violations focus on several issues - prohibited activities (they cannot sign papers to be filed with the court, ask questions at a deposition or handle court appearances), permitted activities, and how paralegals "hold themselves out."

But when do paralegals cross the line into the unauthorized practice of law?  This program, presented by Cari Sheehan, Assistant Clinical Professor of Business Law and Ethics with the IU Kelley School of Business - Indianapolis, will explore high-risk areas for paralegals that could get them in trouble with UPL.  The view will also learn advice on how to avoid UPL and guard against those "sticky situations."  This program is great for paralegals that are client-facing with high involvement in cases.

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze Professional Rules of Ethics 5.3, 5.5, and 8.4

2. Identify the top five things that only an attorney can do

3. Discuss real-life examples and case studies regarding UPL