SPRING 2022 NO.4 | VOL.27 - Paralegal Division
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Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
SPRING 2022
NO.4 | VOL. 27
1
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
1
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
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President’s Message
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Activites for TAPS and great speakers
are well underway and our sponsors
are signing up by leaps and bounds.
If you have suggestions for speakers
and/or topics from the Ft. Worth area
please send them to me so I can pass
them along.
I am still waiting to see some articles
from our awsome members. I know you
have it in your minds. That one topic
you get on a soap box about. Let us
hear from you. That one idea you have
wanted to shout from the roof tops.
Let us hear from you. Remember you
are the strength and presence of our
organization. All of you keep PD going
and alive and you are all amazing
after 40 years.
I have been so pleased to see all the
activity and sharing of forms, contacts
and suggestions and working through
unchartered territory on EGroup but
a couple of reminders to help Jay out
President’s a bit: no employment ads; remember
you don’t need to hit reply all each time
MESSAGE you respond.
Don’t forgot to sign up for our great
Paralegal Travels Trip for 2023.
Well for most places Congratulations to our returning
In formation to put down deposits and
I would say Happy even numbered District Directors:
all the details are in the TPJ and in the
Alice Lineberry (D-4), Shannon
Spring but as we are Shaw (D10) and Pam Snavely (D‑12).
Pulse. This is recharge time we all need
in Texas more like Congratulations to our two new
so take a peek and get your name on
that list before the spaces are filled.
happy spring/summer Directors: Heather Ulliman (D2) and
Maria Sturdy (D14). D-16 we still need
as tempertures are someone to take that step into the
Take care and enjoy all that 40 years
of the Paralegal Division has built
already in the 90’s! Director spot. from a small vision into such great
opportunities and strength it has
We are so busy with CLE, events, TAPA,
become with so much more in store.
elections, spot audits, and setting up
I only hope to be a part of this great
the website our heads are spinning.
group of leaders that you all are.
“Do one thing every- There are some great new ways PD
deadlines and announcements will
day that scares you” be instigated to keep you apprised
Susi Boss
of happenings (not th great tattoo President 2021-2022
- Eleanor Roosevelt
program Megan had for us) but Paralegal Division
stayed tuned. State Bar of Texas
1
Editor’s Note
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
volunteers and do this out of passion
for the profession and/or for their local
association and the Paralegal Division.
These volunteers love what they do and
want to belong and help inspire and/or
empower our colleagues. Please think
about getting involved today. We would
love to have you!
If you have a member being honored by
your local or other association, please
send in a submission for next year’s
spring edition.
TAPS 2022 is coming to Fort Worth! Be
on the lookout for some great speakers
and other information very soon.
In the spring edition of the Texas
Editor’s Paralegal Journal, we celebrate our
members who have been recognized
Megan Goor-Peters,
TBLS-BCP
NOTE by a local or other association.
Notably, these members are all
TPJ Editor
It’s
Renewal
Time.
We value our members.
We have been serving Texas paralegals for
40 years providing excellence and presence.
Make sure your required
Steps for Log into your
CLE hours are posted.
Then start your renewal.
MyAccount>Renew
MyAccount page
renewal: MyAccount>Manage My
******
at www.txpd.org Online
CLE Records
2
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Publications
Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP, Editor
Rhonda J. Brashears, CP, TBLS-BCP, Coordinator
Kim Goldberg, TBLS-BCP, Board Advisor
Table of Art Direction
RRD GO Creative™
35 West Wacker Drive
CONTENT
Chicago, Illinois 60601
gocreative.rrd.com
1.800.782.4892
Digital Publisher
SPRING 2022
RRD DigiMag
NO.4 | VOL. 27
Paralegal Division
President, Susi Boss
01 President’s Message President-Elect, Lisa Pittman
Treasurer, Eugene Alcala
Parliamentarian, Shannon Shaw
Secretary, Alice Lineberry, PLS, CP
02 Editor’s Note
Board of Directors
President, Susi Boss, San Antonio;
07
President-Elect, Lisa Pittman, Denton;
Board of Directors Quarterly Board Meeting Summary District 1 Director, Kim Goldberg, TBLS-BCP, Houston;
District 2 Director, Eugene Alcala, Dallas;
Spring 2022 District 3 Director, Wayne Baker, RP, Granbury;
District 4 Director, Alice Lineberry, PLS, CP, Austin;
District 5 Director, Pearl Garza, San Antonio;
09 Defensible Deletion: The Proof is in the Planning District 7 Director, Erica Anderson, ACP, Amarillo;
District 10 Director, Shannon Shaw, The Woodlands;
District 11 Director, Stacey Marquez, Lemesa;
District 12 Director, Pam Snavely, ACP, Denton;
13 The Last STRAW: Managing Your Emotions in the District 14 Director, Maria Sturdy, Longview
District 15 Director, Arturo Ortiz, McAllen; and
Workplace District 16 Director, Rebecca Lopez, El Paso.
Publication Committee Members
Publications Chair: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
16 Are you Using a Health Savings Account Effectively? Board Advisor to Kim Goldberg, TBLS-BCP
Deadline for Summer Issue is June 15, 2022.
20
E-mail tpj@txpd.org.
Announcement of 2022-2023 President-Elect
Texas Paralegal Journal © 2006 by the Paralegal
Division, State Bar of Texas. Published quarterly in
21 Paralegal Division 2021-2022 Leadership Texas by the Publications Committee of the Paralegal
Division, P.O. Box 19163, Amarillo, Texas 79114. The
Texas Paralegal Journal is a magazine published to
provide information specifically for the members of
25 Texas Local Associations Honor Paralegal Division the Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas, as well
as for members of the paralegal community in general,
Members and Paralegal Day Celebrations both in Texas and nationwide. Opinions expressed
herein are solely those of the writer and not the Board
of Directors or of the Division. Publication of any
advertisement herein does not imply endorsement
33 Texas Paralegal Standards in any manner. None of the information contained
herein is intended nor should it be construed as
legal advice. Inclusion and editing of material
35 2021 TBLS Paralegals
submitted is at the discretion of the editor and the
editorial subcommittee.
36
Texas Paralegal Journal (ISSN 1 089-1633)
Membership Benefit is published four times a year in Summer,
Fall, Winter, and Spring for $15 set aside
from membership dues for a one-year
subscription by the Paralegal Division of the
State Bar of Texas, P.O. Box 19163, Amarillo,
TX 794114.
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Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
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Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
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Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
ATTENTION LITIGATION STAFF
OVER 70 OF TEXAS’ PREMIER
CIVIL-TRIAL MEDIATORS & ARBITRATORS NOW
PUBLISH THEIR AVAILABLE DATES ONLINE
Save HOURS of scheduling time directly at
www.TexasNeutrals.org
This online calendaring service is entirely free, funded by the members of our Texas Chapter of the Academy.
To view the National Academy’s free database of over 1000 top-rated mediators & arbitrators, simply visit www.NADN.org/directory
♦
♦
♦
♦
Authored by Paralegal Division members, with input from
the legal community. Published by Thomson Reuters.
6
Board of Directors
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Here are some points of interest
from the Board Meeting:
President-Elect – Election was held
and the 2022 - 2023 President-Elect
was announced. Congratulations to
Joncilee Davis, ACP!
Even-Numbered Director Elections
– Elections for Districts 2, 4, 10, 12, 14
and 16 will be voted on. Don’t forget to
make sure you get your ballots in.
TAPS 2022 – The TAPS Planning
Board of Directors Committee is working very hard to
make sure that attendees have great
QUARTERLY
speakers/topics and some fun too!
TAPS will be held September 28 – 30,
2022 in Fort Worth.
BOARD MEETING Annual Meeting – The Annual Meeting
SUMMARY
will be held on September 30, 2022 at
the TAPS 2022 Friday luncheon.
Winter 2022 Paralegal Pulse and TPJ – The
Paralegal Pulse is emailed out
monthly and the TPJ is emailed on a
quarterly basis. Please open and read
them as there is so much information
contained in both. And remember
to check out the Paralegal Pulse for
Submitted by President-Elect, Lisa Pittman what is happening in your District and
across the state.
president-elect@txpd.org
The Board of Directors and
Committee Chairs are hard at
work for you. Please reach out to
The Board of Directors met on Friday, February 11, 2022 and them if you have any questions or
Saturday, February 12, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. are interested in learning more
about how to serve on a committee
or to volunteer. Their contact
information is on the website for
the Executive Committee and the
District Directors.
7Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
PARALEGAL DIVISION
ANNOUNCES
TAPS 2022 SCHOLARSHIP
For the upcoming 2022 Texas Advanced Paralegal Seminar (TAPS), a three-day CLE seminar, the
PARALEGAL DIVISION of the State Bar of Texas will award up to two (2) educational scholarships for the
three-day registration to attend the TAPS 2022 seminar, "Survey Says –TAPS 2022 – CLE No. 1 Answer."
Below please find the guidelines and application for applying for this scholarship.
1. The Recipient must be a member (or apply for membership) of the Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas.
2. To apply for a TAPS scholarship, the applicant is required to give a written essay on the following:
“What brought you to the paralegal profession and why do you feel CLE is important?”
The essay must be two (2) pages in length and double-spaced.
3. To apply for a TAPS scholarship, the applicant is required to provide two (2) letters of personal references, which
describe the applicant’s involvement in the paralegal profession.
4. Financial need shall be a contributing factor, but not a requirement. However, if two or more applicants are tied in meeting
the criteria for the scholarship, financial need shall be the determining factor.
5. Recipient(s) are required to volunteer a minimum of three hours on-site during the event.
Other
1. No money will be sent directly to the recipient.
2. The scholarship for TAPS shall cover the cost of the three-day registration, but does not include socials, travel,
or hotel expenses.
3. The scholarship selection committee for reviewing scholarship applications for TAPS shall be composed of the
Chair of the TAPS Planning Committee, one Planning Committee Sub-Committee Chair, and the Board
Advisor to the TAPS Planning Committee.
The Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas will award scholarships for TAPS 2022 which will cover the cost
of registration in accordance with the TAPS scholarship guidelines.
TAPS 2022 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
IMPORTANT: ALL APPLICATIONS FOR A SCHOLARSHIP FOR TAPS 2022 MUST BE RECEIVED
BY FRIDAY, JULY 15, 2022. DATE OF TAPS 2022: September 28-30, 2022, Fort Worth, Texas
Name PD Membership No.
Home Address
Home Telephone E-mail Address
Work Address
Work Telephone Fax Number
Employer ___________________________________________________________________________________
Are you a member of a local paralegal organization that offers a scholarship award?
Give a detailed description of your reason for seeking a scholarship to TAPS 2022:
Give a detailed description, if any, for your reasons for financial need:
Attach two (2) personal references and your written essay to this application. Applications should be mailed to:
Lisa Pittman, Scholarship Chair of the TAPS Planning Committee, Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP, 512 W.
Hickory, Suite 100, Denton, Texas 76201 or email to: taps@txpd.org Scholarship recipients will be notified by
letter or email by August 1, 2022 and must accept and be registered for TAPS by August 15, 2022.
_________________________________
Date Applicant’s Signature Attach any additional explanations.
8Defensible Deletion: The Proof is in the Planning
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Defensible Deletion:
THE PROOF IS IN
THE PLANNING
By Andrew Peck Jennifer Feldman Leeanne Mancari
challenging. Here, we provide a need, so long as they do not violate
framework for making defensible regulatory requirements or litigation
deletion an attainable goal. The key preservation obligations. As validated
lies in planning. by the U.S. Supreme Court,”Document
retention policies,” which are created
What Is Defensible Deletion?
in part to keep certain information
Prospectively, defensible deletion
from getting into the hands of
involves the ongoing and routine
others, including the Government,
elimination of unneeded data, in real
are common in business. It is, of
time or pursuant to a prescribed
course, not wrongful for a manager
schedule to avoid accumulation
to instruct employees to comply with
Dennis Kiker of ROT. Retroactively, defensible
a valid document retention policy
deletion involves identification and
under ordinary circumstances.”
deletion of previously accumulated
Arthur Andersen v. United States,
*Reprinted with permission from the January ROT. In either case, the “defensible”
29, 2021 edition of the “New York Law Journal 544 U.S. 696, 704 (2005).
© 202X ALM Global Properties, LLC. All
part of the proposition involves
rights reserved. Further duplication without minimizing legal risk, particularly “Best practice” dictates not only that
permission is prohibited, contact 877-257-3382
associated with spoliation a record may be destroyed when no
or reprints@alm.com.”
of evidence. longer required for any business,
Most companies maintain vast legal or regulatory purpose—it should
Deletion Can Be… Defensible
amounts of unneeded data and can be destroyed due to the many risks
The first challenge most legal
decrease legal and compliance risk associated with over-preservation.
departments face is the question
and minimize financial burden if they The Sedona Conference, Commentary
of whether any data can safely be
retain less ROT (redundant, obsolete on Defensible Disposition, Second Ed.,
deleted. The short answer is, “yes.”
and trivial data). Unfortunately, 20 Sedona Conf. J. 179, 187, 199 (2019).
Companies are entitled to dispose
eliminating ROT, often referred to These risks include unnecessary
of information they no longer
as “defensible deletion,” can seem storage costs; compliance risks
9Defensible Deletion: The Proof is in the Planning
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
associated with retention of data
subject to privacy regulations;
compliance with contractual
provisions concerning retention
and disposition of confidential and
other business information; reduced
productivity due to difficulty in finding
information; increased litigation
risk; greater expense associated
with discovery in future matters;
and increased cyber-security risks.
Id. at 199-214.
Lay a Foundation for Defensibility
Stakeholders should decide to
dispose of information based
on legal and business judgment,
relying on sound processes and
procedures, including:
(1) Records retention policy and
schedule: Ideally, companies
document retention requirements in the COO, etc. Eliminating ROT benefits (2) Departmental Focus: Individual
a policy and schedule, which lends every aspect of the business; it is departments can be the focus
certainty to decisions about what simply a matter of identifying the of a defensible deletion project.
data are eligible for deletion. In the benefit for stakeholders. Reorganizations, relocations, or
absence of a previously established other circumstances may make
policy, one can be developed for a Understand the Scope
a department open to a “house-
targeted category of data as part of Next, the stakeholders must
cleaning” exercise for its own data.
the defensible deletion initiative. understand and define the scope of
the disposition initiative, which can be (3) Enterprise-Wide Information
(2) Inventory of Legal Preservation defined in many ways: Governance: Many companies are
Obligations: Most companies beginning to prioritize enterprise-
have legal holds in place, requiring (1) Key driving forces: Often,
wide information governance. Such
preservation of certain data. circumstances will make the scope
efforts are ideal opportunities to
Understanding the data categories clear. For example, retirement or
launch a defensible deletion project,
subject to legal hold, and where that upgrade of a system or migration
as they offer an early, demonstrable
data resides, will allow stakeholders to a new platform creates a unique
return on investment. If undertaking
to more efficiently effectuate a opportunity to delete ROT from
an enterprise-wide initiative, it is
defensible deletion project. those sources. Similarly, release of a
advisable to divide it into smaller
legal hold creates an opportunity for
projects, because it can be daunting
(3) Buy-In and Support: Any effort defensible deletion for data that was
to assess ROT on a company-wide
to dispose of data is likely to face subject to the hold. Organizational
level all at once.
opposition without executive transformations like a merger or
support. The key is identifying the acquisition create opportunities to
“win” for each affected constituent: identify and dispose of unneeded
reduced cost for the CFO, increased information as systems and
storage capacity and decreased data sources are integrated and
complexity for the CIO, faster system consolidated.
performance and response times for
10Defensible Deletion: The Proof is in the Planning
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Staff the Project Data Categorization Medium. This data will require
Defensible deletion is a multi- The key to success for a defensible deeper analysis as to its content and
disciplinary exercise requiring the deletion project is to focus on retention obligations. It may be mixed
knowledge and expertise of different feasibility and not take on too much data and not as easily recognizable.
members of an organization: at once. Early wins with low-hanging Example*: The company may have a
fruit will demonstrate the value of “data closet” of hard drives containing
• Legal and compliance—to ensure
the effort. email data for a large legal hold
compliance with legal and
that has now terminated. Retention
regulatory preservation obligations; Once you understand the scope of
requirements for that data has
data to be analyzed for potential
• Business representative(s) for the expired; however, various custodians
disposition, it is time for the
functions responsible for the data— have been placed on subsequent legal
hard part, and the heart of the
to understand which information holds. In this situation, it is imperative
project—categorizing the data for
has business value; to identify the data for each custodian
deletion based on criteria allowing
subject to subsequent legal holds.
• IT—a technical resource the stakeholders to assess the
forexecution; applicable retention schedules, Hard. This data will be the most
legal preservation obligations, and complex to analyze. It may be
• Records management business value. completely unidentifiable or hard to
professionals—to advise on access. It will be important to assess
statutory retention requirements Start by categorizing the data into
reasonableness and proportionality
and prospective strategies; three buckets (easy, medium, and
here. Example*: The company has
hard) based on objective, identifiable
identified backup media it is no
• Outside resources—depending on criteria that enables differentiating
longer using and has not used for
scope, complexity, and internal data. Culling should be iterative,
several years. The company can no
resource availability, there may beginning with specific criteria
longer access the backup without
be a need for outside resources to such as, but not limited to, retention
retaining an expensive vendor to
augment the above roles; and guidelines, date ranges, data type,
analyze the media. The company
custodian, department, applicability
• C-suite sponsors—to show support. believes that all information needed
to legal hold, or accessibility. If
for regulatory purposes has been
Timing Is Everything circumstances warrant, subsequent
separately retained but is worried
Timing is critical in two ways. First, to culling efforts can be more targeted
that data subject to legal hold may
manage expectations. Data cannot be and refined, using search terms or
be on the backup. Here, because of
deleted instantaneously, particularly other criteria. You can get creative.
reasonableness and proportionality,
in large volumes. Actual execution will Relying on the advice of others
it may be more appropriate to assess
take time, the overall process will be experienced with these projects can
whether any data is missing from
iterative, and stakeholders must be be beneficial.
the legal holds that may require
cognizant of this. preservation of backup media (than to
The Three-Bucket Approach:
Second, preservation obligations Easy. This data is low-hanging fruit. assess what is on the backup media)
can arise unpredictably. Because It is readily identifiable and easy and proceed accordingly.
the defensible deletion process to understand whether it has any
*These examples are illustrative only
takes time, it is necessary to plan basis for retention. Example*: The
and are not legal advice.
for a “quiet” period during which new company may understand that it has
preservation obligations are unlikely no regulatory or legal obligations Document Everything
to arise. Having a plan in place will to keep data more than 10 years A critical component of defensibility
enable the company to act quickly old. Accordingly, any in-scope data is documentation. Document the
when a quiet period arises. 10 years or older only needs to be overall approach, the scope, the
assessed for business value. data classification process, and
final execution.
11Defensible Deletion: The Proof is in the Planning
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Pull the Trigger will depend on the desired level (3) Further Culling: In many cases,
The best approach to execution of of certainty. It is best to consult one round of culling will achieve
the defensible deletion task is an an IT professional who can the desired objective; however, it is
iterative one, as depicted in the outline the different standards possible to continue culling using
accompanying illustration. of data deletion available. more advanced and refined data
identification methods.
(1) Data Deletion: This seemingly (2) Validation: However data are
simple step can be surprisingly deleted, it is important to validate the
complex, as there is more than one results through sampling and testing.
way to delete data. The method
YES
Data Categorization Data Identification Data Deletion Validation Further culling Complete
NO
Documentation
What If Something Goes Wrong?
If the process has been well-planned, executed, and documented, the risk of sanctions for inadvertent spoliation of evidence
is slight. Sanctions under Fed. R. Civ. P. 37(e) are available only when data “should have been preserved in the anticipation or
conduct of litigation” and you “failed to take reasonable steps to preserve it.” Planning a sound process and documenting its
execution will generally demonstrate reasonableness and good faith.
Andrew Peck is senior counsel at DLA Piper and served for 23 years as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of
New York. Jennifer Feldman and Leeanne Mancari are co-chairs of the firm’s e-discovery and information governance group.
Dennis Kiker is a senior attorney focused on e-discovery matters at the firm.
12The Last STRAW
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
STRESS - Anyone who has ever are harboring it. Resentment tends
worked ANY job, in ANY field, at ANY to build slowly over time. We do not
level can relate to job-related stress. often recognize it mostly because
In our line of work, this is expected. when incidents occur that contribute
We often manage multiple tasks at to feelings of resentment, we tend
once and need to recall information at to categorize them into other, more
the drop of a hat. Some of us work for temporary feelings. As a matter of
multiple attorneys and need to be able “getting the job done,” we sweep
to decipher who needs to be where, feelings of resentment under the
who has a call at what time, or which rug. This is dangerous and unhealthy.
one needed something done ASAP Resentment simmers and, if left
The demand can create a level of unaddressed, can eventually boil over.
stress that is unmanageable and often
ANXIETY - Being a member of the
detrimental to one’s health.
by Lisa M. Gutierrez legal community often comes with
notoriety. I am sure we have all heard
from a friend of family member
The Last STRAW: the slight, “Oh!” or “Wow!” when we
share what we do for a living. Do not
MANAGING YOUR underestimate this well-deserved
respect. What we do is challenging
EMOTIONS IN THE
work, and that work requires a high
level of skill. We are all very aware of
how important it is to file a pleading
WORKPLACE on time or submit correspondence
to the appropriate party. We often
double, and triple check our work
As paralegals, our specific TENSION - Stress often leads to for accuracy. Our attorneys depend
responsibilities can vary dependent tension, and tension in the workplace on our diligence. Should we make
upon our areas of practice, size of is NEVER good. This negative an error, the repercussions could
the firm or legal group to which we emotion is extremely toxic and often be catastrophic. This amount of
belong, and the number of cases or very contagious. The last thing we pressure can elevate our anxiety and
clients for which we are responsible. want to do is contaminate our work lead to a multitude of issues, both
Yet despite these differences, our environment with tension. It inhibits professionally and personally.
list of commonalities is interminable. communication which ultimately
Without exception are the emotions reduces productivity. A reduction in WEARINESS - Many of us tend
we experience daily. Being a legal productivity in a deadline-oriented to put our jobs ahead of our own
assistant, not unlike other careers, field such as the law is a disaster personal well-being and as a result,
can be highly stressful and extremely waiting to happen. we experience fatigue and burnout.
demanding. At times, we may even Mental fatigue is very real and often
question why we picked this career RESENTMENT - Here we see the leads to both mental and physical
field in the first place. snowball effect when we add health issues. It can begin to reflect
resentment. It is not surprising that in our work and may ultimately costs
The most common negative emotions
with mounting stress and brewing us our jobs.
we face regularly can be summed
tensions, resentment soon follows.
up into the acronym: S.T.R.A.W
This silent relationship killer can
(Stress, Tension, Resentment,
go undetected for quite some time.
Anxiety, Weariness).
Some may even be unaware that they
13The Last STRAW
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
As cliché as it may sound, we must off caffeine cold turkey as you can and he or she has not initiated a
make ourselves a priority. We are no experience headaches, fatigue, and conversation, you may need to prompt
good to our firms, our attorneys, our irritability. Try to wean yourself off that interaction. If you do not feel that
clients, if we are not in good mental, slowly. Ask your doctor for advice on you can address the problem in person
emotional, and physical shape. decreasing your caffeine intake. immediately or without incident,
Be mindful of your well-being. Here are consider composing an email simply
TAKE YOUR BREAKS! I know at times
some tips to ensure that you are taking asking for a time to chat.
we feel the need to work through lunch
care of yourself in and out of the office:
because we have a deadline, or we Despite what you may be feeling at
SET UP A CALM, RELAXING WORK are reluctant to ask for our vacation times, you are likely more important to
ENVIRONMENT: If possible, add décor days because we have discovery due your organization that you think. If you
to your office or workspace that makes or a trial or mediation for which to are not well emotionally or physically,
it feel warmer and more relaxing. prep. Those obstacles will ALWAYS someone within your organization will
A family photo or some spiritual or be present. Make sure you take your eventually notice, whether it be from
religious item that has sentimental break during the day. Whether it be a change in your behavior or a change
value, some soft quiet music playing a full one-hour lunch or a brief 15 in your performance. If you lack the
in the background, or an essential minutes, a break is NECESSARY. And if same motivation you once had, try to
oil diffuser could lighten the room possible, take it AWAY from your desk. remember why you started your legal
and help you relax. (Be mindful of Go outside and get some air. Go to the career in the first place. Think back on
strong odors that may bother your break room and grab a snack. Maybe your accomplishments. Think back on
co‑workers.). If you cannot keep even sit in your car and listen to music. the clients you have helped. Think back
personal items ON your desk, keep it IN The same goes for your vacation days on the difference you have made and
your desk drawer or within reach. or paid time off. If you are lucky enough how much you have grown since the
to receive PTO, utilize it! Your boss early days of your career. Do not let it
KEEP YOUR WORKSPACE (AND
offered it to you for a reason. And you get to the last STRAW.
HOMESPACE) CLEAN AND CLEAR OF
should not feel guilty for requesting
CLUTTER: Clutter both at home and in About the Author:
time off that you have earned.
the office heightens anxiety levels and Lisa M. Gutierrez is a Medical
creates unnecessary chaos. Try to take KEEP THE LINES OF COMMUNICATION Malpractice Litigation Paralegal with
10-15 minutes of your day to organize OPEN: This is perhaps the most Lyons & Lyons, PC, in San Antonio. She
your desk, your inbox, etc., so that you important tip of all. has experience in both Personal Injury,
minimize anxiety-driving distractions. Estate Planning, and Probate law.
Without communication, we have
She attained her Associate in Applied
SLOW DOWN ON THE CAFFEINE: Most nothing. Communicate with your
Science (Paralegal Specialties) from
of us enjoy a great cup of coffee or supervisor and communicate OFTEN.
Del Mar College in 2012 and is currently
tea, especially to get a jump on long It does not always have to be scary
completing her undergraduate studies
days at the office. Unfortunately, too to speak with your boss. Let them
in Political Science at The University of
much caffeine can have the complete know how you are feeling. If you are
Texas at San Antonio.
opposite effect. Being overcaffeinated feeling overwhelmed, it is best to
can increase anxiety, raise blood express those feelings before your Memberships & Affiliations:
pressure, and interfere with sleep. In performance starts to suffer, or even • State Bar of Texas - Paralegal
addition, afternoon fatigue can set worse, it results in disciplinary action Division: Active Member
in once caffeine leaves your system, for poor performance. We also need
leaving you less productive than you to remember that our supervisors • NALA | The Paralegal Association:
hoped you might be. Try to limit your are humans too. They experience Active Member
caffeine intake to just the morning the SAME emotions, trials, and
• San Antonio Young Lawyers
hours. Perhaps switching to decaf tribulations. Life does not discriminate
Association: Associate Member
for your afternoon cup could do the in that way. If you are experiencing
trick. Be careful to not completely cut tension with your boss or a co-worker
14The Last STRAW
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
15Are You Using a Health Savings Account Effectively?
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
For 2022, the IRS defines a HDHP as do not have to have earned income
a plan with a deductible of at least to make deductible contributions.
$1,400 for individuals and $2,800 for Contributions to HSAs are deductible
families. You and your employer may until you sign up for Medicare.
contribute to an HSA. Then, when you
2. Ability to invest funds - HSAs
need medical care, you can withdraw
typically offer several savings and
HSA funds to cover your expenses, or
investment options. These may
opt to pay your costs out-of-pocket if
include interest-earning savings,
you want to save your account funds.
checking, and money market
Unlike “Flexible Spending Accounts,”
accounts, or investments such as
there is no “use it or lose it” provision, so
stocks, bonds, and mutual funds
funds roll over from year to year. Even
that offer the potential to earn
if you leave your current employer, the
higher returns but carry more
account is yours to keep, and you could
risk (including the risk of loss
By Mitchell Byrum, CFP® theoretically accumulate a significant
balance over time. If you have high of principal). Carefully consider
your investment objectives, risk
ARE YOU USING A
tolerance, expenses, and your time
horizon before investing. A financial
professional can help you decide
HEALTH SAVINGS which savings or investment options
are appropriate.
ACCOUNT 3. Potential for tax-free withdrawals
- Here’s the kicker, contributions
EFFECTIVELY?
to your HSA, and any interest
or earnings, grow tax deferred,
UNLESS withdrawn for qualified
medical expenses, in which case
There has been a recent surge in the medical expenses, it’s certainly they could be withdrawn tax free.
popularity of Health Savings Accounts possible to spend down all the money I recommend you consult a tax
correlating with the rise in number of in your HSA every year (HSAs are very professional if you have questions
high-deductible health plans. When commonly used this way). However, if about the tax advantages offered by
talking to clients and colleagues, I you don’t have high medical expenses an HSA.
often find that many are unaware of and are several years from retirement,
the extent of the features and benefits I challenge you to view the HSA as a 4. No Required Minimum Distributions
that Health Savings Accounts offer. I’ve powerful retirement savings tool. - Unlike a 401 (k) or traditional IRA,
often referred to it as one of the best HSAs do not require you to take
HSAs as a Retirement Savings Tool
“deals” in the current tax code but am funds out at a certain age. The
1. Tax deductible contributions
surprised at how few people use Health account can remain untouched and
regardless of income - Contributions
Savings Accounts to their full capability. invested as long as you like.
to HSAs can be made via payroll
What is a Health Savings Account? deductions and from your own 5. Reimbursement for Medical
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a personal funds. If you make Expenses in Retirement – You are
tax-advantaged account that is paired contributions using after-tax dollars, not required to take distributions
with a high-deductible health plan they’re deductible from your taxable for medical expenses in the year
(HDHP). You cannot contribute to an income whether you itemize or not. that you incur the expense. In fact,
HSA unless you are enrolled in a HDHP. Unlike retirement accounts, you distributions for qualified medical
16Are You Using a Health Savings Account Effectively?
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
expenses incurred after your HSA
is opened could be deferred as long
as you would like. If you pay medical
expenses out of pocket instead of
from your HSA, keep careful track of
the expenses and save receipts to
know how much you can distribute
tax-free in retirement.
HSA Limitations to Consider
• As mentioned above, you must be
enrolled in a high deductible health
• Distributions for expenses other Bottom Line
plan to contribute to an HSA.
than qualified medical expenses If you are enrolled in a high-deductible
• For 2022, individuals can only will be subject to income tax and health plan, a Health Savings Account
contribute up to $3,650 and a penalty of 20% if made before can be an extremely powerful
families can contribute $7,050. age 65. Individuals older than 65 retirement savings tool when you
This annual limit applies to all can make distributions for any consider the triple tax advantage
contributions, whether they’re expenses without penalty, but those of tax-deductible contributions,
made by you, your employer, or your distributions will still be added potential tax-deferred growth, and
family members. You can make to taxable income if not used for potential tax-free withdrawals. If cash
contributions up to April 15th of the qualified medical expenses. flow allows, consider paying health
following year (i.e., you can make care costs out of pocket while you
• Don’t let the tax tail wag the dog.
2022 contributions up to April 15, are working, keeping careful track of
As with any retirement account,
2023). There is also a “catch-up” those expenses so you can reimburse
before making contributions, ensure
contribution for individuals over age yourself in retirement. An HSA may be
you have an emergency fund set
55 that allows you to contribute an a key part of a detailed, comprehensive
up and plenty of liquidity to cover
additional $1,000. financial plan. If you have any
your livings expenses. The last
questions or would like to discuss the
thing you want is to be forced into
topic further, you can connect with us
a situation where you have to make
at www.sharrisfinancial.com.
a distribution from your HSA to cover
living expenses and incur a penalty.
Disclaimer: Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. S. Harris Financial Group is not a registered broker/
dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors,
Inc and S. Harris Financial Group. Raymond James Financial Services does not accept orders and/or instructions regarding your account by email, voice mail,
fax or any alternate method. Transactional details do not supersede normal trade confirmations or statements. Email sent through the internet is not secure
or confidential. Any information provided in this article has been prepared from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed by Raymond James
Financial Services and is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision. Any information provided is
for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation. Raymond James Financial Services and its employees may own options, rights or
warrants to purchase any of the securities mentioned in this article. Any opinions are those of S. Harris Financial Group and not necessarily those of Raymond
James and is not affiliated with the Texas Paralegal Journal. Mitchell Byrum can be reached at mitchell@harrisfinancial.com
17Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
18Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
19Announcement of 2022-2023
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
ANNOUNCMENT
OF 2022-2023
PRESIDENT-ELECT
JONCILEE H. MILLER, ACP
Joncilee H. Miller, ACP is a litigation Joncilee is a charter member
paralegal in the Dallas office of and past President of the North
Polsinelli, and over 25 years of Texas Paralegal Association. She
experience as a paralegal. is also a charter member of the
College of the State Bar of Texas,
Joncilee attended Texas A&M Paralegal Division.
University and obtained her BA in
Political Science. She also received Joncilee has served the Paralegal
her Master of Science degree Division of the State Bar of Texas
Magna Cum Laude from Amberton in many capacities for the past
University in Human Relations 24 years. She is honored to be
and Business. She is an Advanced elected to serve as President-Elect
Certified Paralegal in Trial Practice for the 2022-2023 year.
(“ACP”) through NALA).
| DISTRICT
2022 Even-Numbered
DIRECTOR ELECTION RESULTS
District District District District District
2 4 10 12 14
HEATHER ALICE SHANNON PAMELA MARIA
ULLIMAN LINEBERRY SHAW SNAVELY STURDY
Congratulations They will represent their respective
to these Directors. districts for the 2022-2024 term.
20Paralegal Division 2021-2022 Leadership
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
PARALEGAL DIVISION
2021-2022 LEADERSHIP
Thank you to these members who volunteered their time
to serve the Paralegal Division.
2021-2022 Board of Directors
Susi Boss Lisa Pittman
President President-Elect
Directors:
District District tri
Dis ct
1 KIM GOLDBERG
TBLS-BCP, Houston
2 EUGENA ALCALA
Dallas (Treasurer)
3 WAYNE BAKER
RP, Granbury
District District District
4 ALICE LINEBERRY
PLS, CP, Austin
5 PEARL GARZA
San Antonio
7 ERICA ANDERSON
ACP, Amarillo
(Secretary)
District District District
10 SHANNON SHAW
The Woodlands
11 STACEY MARQUEZ
Midland
12 PAMELA SNAVELY
ACP, Denton
(Parliamentarian)
District District District
14 MARIA STURDY
Longview
15 ARTURO ORTIZ
McAllen
16 REBECCA LOPEZ
El Paso
21Paralegal Division 2021-2022 Leadership
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Paralegal Division 2021-2022 AD-HOC COMMITTEES
Committee Chairpersons
Immediate Past President/Historian 40th Anniversary Ad-Hoc Committee
Edna Garza-Guerra, TBLS-BCP Chair: Javan Johnson, ACP, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Maria Sturdy, District 14
Annual Meeting Committee
Chair: Susi Boss (President) Ambassador Ad Hoc Committee
Chair: Stephanie Sterling, TBLS-BCP
Continuing Education Committee Board Advisor: Arturo Ortiz, District 15
Chair District CLE: Rocio Mayes Ambassador: Erica Anderson, ACP
Board Advisor: Alice Lineberry, PLS, CP, District 4 Ambassador: Michele Boerder, CP, TBLS-BCP
Ambassador: Rhonda J. Brashears, CP, TBLS-BCP
Chair Online CLE: Amy Rainwater, Ambassador: Clara Buckland, CP
TBLS-BCP, PHP Ambassador: Patricia Giuliano
Board Advisor: Maria Sturdy, District 14 Ambassador: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
Ambassador: Javan Johnson, ACP, TBLS-BCP
Elections Committee Ambassador: Ellen Lockwood, ACP, RP®
Chair: Melanie Langford, ACP Ambassador: Stephanie Sterling, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Pearl Garza, District 5 Ambassador: Mona Tucker, ACP
Ambassador: Susan Wilen, RN
Membership Committee
Chair: Mona Tucker, ACP E-Group Policy Ad Hoc Committee
Board Advisor: Shannon Shaw, District 10 Chair: Jay Williams, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Pearl Garza, District 5
Professional Development Committee
Chair: Lindy Duffney Ethics Handbook Ad Hoc Committee
Board Advisor: Wayne Baker, RP, District 3 Chair: Ellen Lockwood, ACP, RP®
Board Advisor: Stacey Marquez, District 11
Professional Ethics Committee
Chair: Ellen Lockwood, ACP, RP® Leadership Development Ad Hoc Committee
Board Advisor: Eugene Alcala, District 2 Chair: Susan Wilen, RN
Board Advisor: Lisa Pittman
Public Relations Committee
Chair: Kerri Alexander Long-Term Strategic Planning Ad-Hoc Committee
Board Advisor: Erica Anderson, ACP, District 7 Chair: Michele Boerder, CP, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Alice Linebery, PLS, CP, District 4
Publications Committee
Chair: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP Member Renewal Spot Audit Committee
Board Advisor: Kim Goldberg, TBLS-BCP, District 1 Chair: Patricia Giuliano
Board Advisor: Maria Sturdy, District 14
TPJ Editor
Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
TPJ Advertising
Coordinator: Rhonda J. Brashears, CP, TBLS-BCP
Procedures Manual Committee
Chair: Lisa Pittman (President-Elect)
22Paralegal Division 2021-2022 Leadership
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
Membership Criteria - E-Group Compliance State Bar Appointments
Ad Hoc Committee
Chair: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP State Bar of Texas Child Protection Section
Board Advisor: Erica Anderson, ACP, District 7 Representative: Susi Boss
Mentor Program Ad Hoc Committee State Bar of Texas Legal Services to the
Chair: Jennifer Barnes, CP Poor in Civil Matters
Board Advisor: Alice Lineberry, PLS, CP, District 4 Representative: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
Paralegal Pulse-E-Newsletter State Bar of Texas Pro Bono Workgroup
Chair: Javan Johnson, ACP, TBLS-BCP Representative: Stephanie Sterling, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Pam Snavely, ACP, District 12
State Bar of Texas Unauthorized Practice Of Law
Pro Bono Ad Hoc Committee Committee-Northern Region District 6
Chair: Heather Ulliman Representative: Eugene Alcala
Board Advisor: Kim Goldberg, TBLS-BCP, District 1
Texas Bar College Paralegal Division Representative
Standing Rules and Bylaws Ad Hoc Committee Representative: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
Chair - Shannon Shaw (Parliamentarian)
Texas Judicial Committee On
Student Liaison - Appointment Information Technology (JCIT)
Chair - Elaine Simmons, CP Representative: Stephanie Sterling, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Eugene Alcala, District 2
Sustaining Member/Vendor Liaison Paralegal Division Coordinator
Chair: Susy Johnson, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Shannon Shaw, District 10 Paralegal Division Coordinator,
Rhonda Brashears, CP, TBLS-BCP, Amarillo
TBLS Helpful Hints Ad Hoc Committee
Chair: Javan Johnson, ACP, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Wayne Baker, RP, District 3
Texas Advanced Paralegal Seminar (TAPS) Planning
Committee
Chair: Edna Garza-Guerra, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Susi Boss
Texas Bar College Application Review
Chair: Megan Goor, TBLS-BCP
Board Advisor: Pamela Snavely, ACP, District 12
23Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
24Texas Local Associations Honor Paralegal Division Members and Paralegal Day Celebrations
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
TEXAS LOCAL ASSOCIATIONS
HONOR PARALEGAL DIVISION
MEMBERS AND PARALEGAL
DAY CELEBRATIONS
District 2
DALLAS AREA PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
2021 PARALEGAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
OCTAVIA GIADOLOR, CRP
DAPA presents the Paralegal of the
Year Award each year to the individual
based on the following: a) Community
Activities; b) General Work Experience;
c) Involvement in Professional
Organizations d) Professional &
volunteer awards, appointments,
District 1 offices, etc.; and e) Any other
Houston Metropolitan Paralegal applicable activity or honor brought
Association Board of Director, Anita to the attention of the Volunteer
Hamilton, CP was the recipient of Selection Committee. For Year 2021,
the Lonestar North Harris Adjunct DAPA presented the Paralegal of the
Excellence Award. Year Award to Octavia Giadolor, CRP.
Octavia has been a partner in a local Octavia Giadolor, CRP
small business (W/MBE) since 2001.
During the 15 years she was actively of their venture capitalist division, in
involved in business ownership, a department named HEE Solar. In
she obtained both her Bachelor and her role as Office Manager, Octavia
Master’s degrees, as well as received oversaw the day to day operations of
several certifications for Human the department. To add value to her
Resources, Payroll, and Management. position, in 2018, Octavia decided to
pursue her Paralegal certificate from
In 2016, she decided to step aside from
SMU. Upon successful completion
her self-employment responsibilities
of this program, she also obtained
and joined Hunt Consolidated, a multi-
her Intellectual Property Specialist
Anita Hamilton billion dollar privately owned energy
Certification from University of Texas
firm headquartered in Dallas, TX.
in Austin and began a role as an IP
Octavia’s employment at Hunt began in
Paralegal for HEE Solar.
the Research & Development section
25Texas Local Associations Honor Paralegal Division Members and Paralegal Day Celebrations
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
In 2020, she was promoted to the responsibilities as well as acquired Octavia has been married to her
role of Business Services Manager several additional keys roles that help husband, Godswill, for 21 years and they
for Hunt Energy, the parent company ensure the success of the various have four children, Faith (18), Hope (17),
of HEE Solar. In this position she has start-up ventures that are initiated Godswill II (14), and Gabriel (12). Octavia
maintained her Paralegal within Hunt. is a Dallas native that currently resides
in Lancaster, Texas.
DALLAS AREA PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
2021 PRESIDENT’S AWARD - LINDY DUFFNEY
Each year DAPA’s President’s Award introduced to DAPA by attending the
is awarded by the President to the Wendi Atwood Rogers Mentorship
elected or appointed officer who, in Workshop where she first felt inspired
the Presidents opinion, has made the to pursue a career as a paralegal.
greatest impact on DAPA by supporting Lindy’s education includes having
DAPA and the Board throughout the graduated magna cum laude with a
year (the recipient of the President’s Bachelor’s degree in Political Science
Award shall possess characteristics from Fayetteville State University, and
such as integrity, professionalism and a graduate-level Paralegal Studies
above all, dedication to DAPA). For certificate from Southern Methodist
the Year 2021, DAPA presented the University. In conjunction with her
President’s Award to Lindy Duffney. Paralegal Studies certificate, Lindy
Lindy has provided detailed legal has continued to expand upon her
support as a paralegal since November knowledge and passion of the legal
2019 by working through complex field by serving on the DAPA Board of
litigation and transactional cases Directors since 2021.
Lindy Duffney
from beginning to end. Lindy was first
DALLAS AREA PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
2021 MICHELE M. BOERDER LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
LISA LYNCH
The purpose of the Michele M. Boerder presented the Lifetime Achievement
Lifetime Achievement Award (the Award to Lisa Lynch, CRP. Lisa
“Lifetime Achievement Award”) is to Lynch, CRP, CEDS currently works as
recognize continued, longstanding an in-house paralegal for Cushman
service to DAPA and contributions to and Wakefield, a global leader in the
the overall paralegal profession. The commercial and multifamily real estate
Lifetime Achievement Award was industry in Dallas, Texas. Her role
inspired by the legacy of Michele M. focuses on litigation, eDiscovery and
Boerder, CP, TBLS-Paralegal. The corporate governance.
recipient of the Lifetime Achievement
In 2015, Lisa was elected to the NFPA’s
Award must have made a lasting legacy
Board of Directors as its Vice President
through his/her contributions to DAPA,
and Director of Marketing. In this role
the community and the paralegal
she had many accomplishments,
profession. For the Year 2021, DAPA
including increasing non-dues revenue Lisa Lynch
26Texas Local Associations Honor Paralegal Division Members and Paralegal Day Celebrations
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
and brand awareness, modernizing the since 2004. She served as DAPA’s Lisa obtained her Paralegal Certificate
design of National Paralegal Reporter, President in 2014 and held other from the Professional Development
and co-chairing the committee that positions including President Elect, Institute at the University of North
was instrumental in convincing the NFPA Primary, NFPA Secondary, Texas. In 2011, Lisa was certified by
American Bar Association to change Vendor Advisor, as well as serving NFPA as a Core Registered Paralegal,
its definition of a paralegal to no longer on many committees. She has also becoming one of the first 16 CRPs
identify the term “legal assistant” been a CLE speaker at many DAPA in the State of Texas and initial 148
as synonymous with paralegal. In and student events. In 2014, Lisa was paralegals in the nation who passed
2019, Lisa was elected to the NFPA’s presented with the DAPA Paralegal of the pilot exam administered at 12 test
Board of Directors as its Region II the Year Award. She is also a member sites across the country. Most recently,
Director where she worked closely of Paralegal Division of the State Bar Lisa became CEDS certified through
with the member associations in of Texas and sat on the El Centro ACEDS (Association of Certified
Region II on issues affecting all Paralegal Advisory Board. eDiscovery Specialists).
member associations. In 2021, Lisa
Lisa participates in DAPA’s mentor/ The President will be the leader of
was elected to the NFPA’s Board of
protégé program and is a volunteer NFPA and a mentor for the paralegal
Directors as its first President-Elect
with the Dallas Volunteer Attorney profession. This individual will be
where she works closely with the
Program and other community service responsible to make daily, on-going
President and learns the roles and
programs benefiting non-profits such and long-term decisions regarding
responsibilities to ensure continuity.
as the North Texas Food Bank, Juliette NFPA’s overall effect on the profession
Lisa has been involved with the Dallas Fowler, TangoTab and The Stewpot. and ensure these decisions are
Area Paralegal Association (DAPA) implemented and monitored.
District 3
2021 Recipient Gaston Award for Excellence in
Legal Support/Texas Bar College
JENA PARKER, CP
*Originally published https://texasbarcollege.
In addition to her nationally recognized
com/awards/merianne-gaston-award-for-
excellence-in-legal-support/ and printed with accreditation, Jena was on the board of
permission of Texas Bar College the Texas Bar College for approximately
Jena Parker has over 27 years of 10 years and has been a member of the
experience as a criminal law paralegal. State Bar of Texas Paralegal Division
Since 1997, Jena has been a certified for many years. Jena also joined the
paralegal through the National Fort Worth Paralegal Association
Association of Legal Assistants (FWPA) in 1992, serving on its board
which the American Bar Association for 6 years, receiving nominations for
recognizes as a designation of her “Paralegal of the Year” each year from
ability to provide exceptional paralegal 2003-2006, and was elected President
services and marking a “high level of of the FWPA in 2005. Jena’s “Paralegal
Jena Parker, CP
professional achievement” (www.nala. Profile” has been featured in West’s
org). To maintain this highest level of Paralegal Today (Fourth edition, p 587), Jena was featured in the documentary
national accreditation, Jena must fulfill and she was featured in the popular series Dallas DNA (Investigation
ongoing educational requirements paralegal reference guide Lessons from Discovery Channel) for her work with
mandating a minimum of 50 hours the Top Paralegal Experts: The 15 Most the Dallas County District Attorney’s
of Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Successful Paralegals and What You Can Office Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU).
every 5 years. Learn from Them by Carole Bruno. The CIU was the first of its kind in
27Texas Local Associations Honor Paralegal Division Members and Paralegal Day Celebrations
Texas Paralegal Journal
Spring 2022
the United States, created to review 2011 when she returned to the private Jena currently works for renowned
claims of actual innocence by those sector. In the subsequent years, the criminal defense attorneys Terri
convicted of serious crimes, remedy groundbreaking work done by Jena Moore and Mike Ware, and for the
wrongful convictions, reaffirm proper and her colleagues at the Dallas Innocence Project of Texas (where
ones, and lobby the legislature to pass County CIU has been a model for Mike is Executive Director), a non‑profit
laws to prevent wrongful convictions successfully reviewing the integrity organization that works to free the
and minimize their impacts moving of convictions from within District wrongfully convicted statewide
forward. Jena was the CIU paralegal Attorney’s Offices nationwide and, and assists with corresponding
from its inception in 2007 through in some cases, overseas. efforts nationwide.
FORT WORTH PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION
PARALEGAL OF THE YEAR
Congratulations to the 2021 Paralegal
of the Year, Susan Davis! Ms. Davis
is described a bright star bringing a
smile, skills, and a “let’s do it” attitude
to the office each and every day.
Ms. Davis is well liked and respected by
clients, who frequently comment about
how the she is able to put them at
ease with professionalism during the
various phases of their cases, all while
managing a heavy litigation docket,
and accompanying attorneys to trial to
assist at all phases on both the state
and federal level.
Susan Davis, TBLS-BCP
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