Paralegal Policies and Practices at Garrison Law Firm, LLC
INTRODUCTION
At Garrison Law Firm, LLC, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional legal services in both family law and criminal defense matters. Our paralegals play a vital role in supporting our attorneys and clients throughout the legal process. The following policies and practices outline the role of our family law paralegals and set expectations for their interactions with clients.
1. Role of Paralegals
- Supportive Function: Paralegals assist attorneys by conducting client interviews, gathering information, managing documentation, and preparing legal documents. They operate under the direct supervision of licensed attorneys and do not provide legal adviceor represent clients in court.
- Authorized Communications: While paralegals may convey information and guidance as authorized by the supervising attorney, they are not permitted to offer legal advice beyond what the attorney has explicitly directed. Any legal inquiries beyond their authorized scope will be directed to the appropriate attorney, ensuring clients receive accurate and professional legal counsel. The Attorney’s responses often will be relayed through a paralegal, but that is not to convey that the paralegal provided the legal advice.
2. Client Confidentiality
- Privacy Assurance: Maintaining client confidentiality is paramount. Paralegals are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and take all necessary measures to protect sensitive client information. Anything you tell our paralegals is kept confidential and is protected by attorney-client privilege.
3. Communication Practices
- Scheduling Appointments: Clients may schedule meetings with paralegals through our Microsoft Bookings page. Paralegals will confirm appointments and provide necessary information prior to meetings.
- Information Gathering: During meetings, paralegals will collect pertinent information related to your case to assist attorneys in providing effective legal representation.
- Limitations: Paralegals will not provide legal advice or opinions beyond what has been authorized by the supervising attorney. All legal counsel will be provided directly by our licensed attorneys.
- Email Communication: Email is one of the primary ways we communicate with clients, especially when conveying sensitive legal steps related to your case. Please ensure your email account is active and that our emails are not directed to your spam or junk folders.
4. Document Management
- Preparation and Review: Paralegals prepare and organize documents required for your case. All documents are reviewed and approved by an attorney before submission to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal standards.
5. Billing and Fees
- Transparent Billing: Services performed by paralegals are billed at a rate lower than that of attorneys, providing a cost-effective approach to handling your case. Detailed billing statements will reflect the work performed by paralegals.
6. Professional Development
- Continuous Training: Our paralegals engage in ongoing education to stay updated on family law practices and procedures, ensuring they provide the highest level of support to our clients and attorneys.
7. Feedback and Concerns
- Open Communication: We value your feedback. If you have any concerns or suggestions regarding interactions with our paralegals, please contact our office directly to discuss them at (317) 842-8283 and speak with either Cody Cogswell, Gabriel Berry, Joshua Martin, Steven Thompson, or Christopher Gilly.
By adhering to these policies and practices, Garrison Law Firm, LLC ensures that our paralegals contribute effectively to the delivery of quality legal services in family law matters.
