A Practical Introduction to Paralegal Studies: Strategies for Success, Fourth Edition

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Bridging the gap between the classroom and the real world, A Practical Introduction to Paralegal Studies offers a thorough exploration of the entire paralegal profession. In a logical three-part organization, experienced author Deborah Bouchoux covers the fundamentals of the paralegal profession and the American legal system, along with the paralegal skills essential for success in the workplace. This engaging and well-written text provides the pragmatic and realistic information students need to hit the ground running.

Professors and students will benefit from:

• Topical coverage that closely adheres to the nature of paralegal work.
• Pedagogical devices that enhance learning, such as chapter overviews, key terms, marginal definitions, website references, case illustrations, practice tips, and chapter summaries.
• Research exercises and Internet-based exercises in each chapter that mirror those performed by the working paralegal.
• Charts, graphs, sample forms, and other aids to enhance learning.

New to the Fourth Edition:

• Significant discussion throughout the entire text of artificial intelligence topics, including the effect of AI on the paralegal profession, ethics, legal research and writing, job hunting, and the practice of law.
• A new feature in each chapter, AI Applications for Success, connects material discussed in the chapter to new AI tools, strategies, and platforms.
• A new feature in each chapter, Tech Nexus, explores various tech tools.
• A revamped and significantly expanded discussion of regulation of the paralegal profession.
• An overview of new trends in ethics.
• Expanded discussion in Chapter Three on the use of social media by legal professionals.
• All new Case Illustrations, Discussion Questions, and Internet Closing Arguments are included.
• Discussion throughout the text on new practices adopted in the wake of COVID-19, including targeted tips on communicating using virtual conferencing tools and the use of digital court reporters in depositions.
• Discussion in Chapter Ten on the effect of new technology, including AI tools such as applicant tracking systems, on job hunting, as well as a new section on virtual interviews and communicating using video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom.
• Discussion of hot topics in employment law, including the use of Mansfield Certification by law firms to promote diversity.
• Entirely new section in Chapter Eleven relating to flexible work arrangements and the new work-from-home movement, together with discussion of pros and cons of such arrangements.
• New forms are provided throughout the text.