In the October edition of the President's Pulse, Cheryl Nodarse, ACP, shares NALA news alongside her dog, Tank. Click below to watch.

NALA Volunteer Spotlight – Terri Walters, ACP

This month’s volunteer spotlight is NALA’s new Chair of the Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) Committee, Terri Walters, ACP. See if you can figure out the lie below. Then click here to read her spotlight and discover the truth.

1. Terri is a member of the Los Angeles Paralegal Association (LAPA).
2. She previously served on NALA's Professional Development Committee (PDC).
3. She has an Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP^®) credential in Trial Practice.

Volunteering as a paralegal is not only a way to give back to your community but also an opportunity to expand your professional skills, network, and make a meaningful difference. With your unique legal knowledge and skills, you are in a prime position to assist underserved populations, improve access to justice, and support the legal profession in significant ways. To read more, click here. 

We want to hear how you make an impact! Click here to visit our Facebook page and comment on the Featured post to share the ways you get involved in your community and enhance the paralegal profession.  

The term “bias” has been used a lot lately, so it is important to understand what that means. Bias is basically a preference for or against something, and it can be conscious, unconscious, or learned. We are going to look at defining, recognizing, and overcoming unconscious bias.

Unconscious bias is a pervasive phenomenon that can significantly impact our interactions and decisions. While we often believe we are objective and impartial, our minds take shortcuts based on past experiences, societal norms, and personal beliefs. These mental shortcuts, often referred to as stereotypes, can lead to biased judgments and behaviors. Everyone, regardless of their intentions, carries unconscious biases. To read more, click here.

As a member of a professional organization dedicated to advancing the paralegal profession, you have access to rewarding volunteer opportunities to give back to the community, enhance your career, and contribute to the legal field. From 2022 to 2023, the number of NALA volunteers increased by 45%. Volunteers are the backbone of our member-led organization. Their remarkable commitment and tireless efforts drive the growth and advancement of the paralegal profession. Whether you are looking to share your expertise, engage in leadership, or help shape the future of the paralegal profession, NALA provides numerous avenues for involvement. To read more, click here.

NALA celebrates the achievements and volunteer efforts of our members through a variety of awards designed to honor excellence, leadership, and dedication to NALA and the paralegal profession. NALA’s awards can play a significant role in your professional development by boosting your reputation and enhancing your visibility within the legal community. Some benefits include networking opportunities and increased career advancement potential. These awards, presented annually, highlight both emerging talent and seasoned professionals who have made impactful contributions. To read more, click here.