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Interviewing and Investigating: Essentials Skills for the Paralegal [ Connected Ebook] 8th ed. [Pehme köide]

  • Formaat: Paperback / softback, 624 pages, kõrgus x laius x paksus: 254x178x32 mm, kaal: 1068 g
  • Sari: Aspen Paralegal
  • Ilmumisaeg: 14-Sep-2021
  • Kirjastus: Aspen Publishing
  • ISBN-10: 1543840205
  • ISBN-13: 9781543840209
  • Formaat: Paperback / softback, 624 pages, kõrgus x laius x paksus: 254x178x32 mm, kaal: 1068 g
  • Sari: Aspen Paralegal
  • Ilmumisaeg: 14-Sep-2021
  • Kirjastus: Aspen Publishing
  • ISBN-10: 1543840205
  • ISBN-13: 9781543840209

Interviewing and Investigating: Essential Skills for the Paralegal, Eighth Edition, provides a thorough and practical approach to helping paralegal students establish a strong foundation in interviewing and investigating skills. And it does so by carefully placing that instruction in exactly the context of civil disputes, criminal prosecutions, and commercial business transactions where modern lawyers need assistants with those skills. The text contains materials to train students how to identify and locate witnesses, obtain vital information from both public and private sources, and how to arrange and conduct effective interviews of clients and witnesses, both in the office and in the field. The text uses not just explanations, examples, and illustrations, but realistic case studies with vetted student role-playing assignments to accomplish its pedagogical goals. The text with supporting materials is written by Stephen P. Parsons, an experienced practitioner, teacher, and author.

New to the Eighth Edition:

  • A new feature, Keep in Mind, to emphasize, recap, and follow up on important points
  • New coverage of genetic testing as a means of identifying or locating people
  • New and freshened examples, hypotheticals, and Learn by Doing exercises
  • Increased coverage on how to locate and obtain medical, educational, and employment records
  • Updated Case Studies for use in student role playing activities
  • Updated references to multiple online resources
  • Updated references to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, and the Federal Rules of Evidence to reflect the latest amendments
  • Continued emphasis on the latest developments in online social networking and communication technologies including public and private surveillance cameras and surveillance drones

Professors and students will benefit from:

  • A dynamic pedagogy, including hypotheticals with questions, Learn by Doing exercises, chapter summaries, and basic review questions in every chapter
  • Examples from civil, criminal, litigation, and non-litigation scenarios
  • Emphasis on ethical and professional standards, integrated throughout the text and focused on in a chapter devoted to ethical issues
  • Four realistic cases for analysis and use in the Learn by Doing exercises-homicide, personal injury, domestic relations, and a commercial real estate development project
List of Illustrations xxxiii
Preface xxxvii
Acknowledgments xliii
Part 1: Foundations for Interviewing and Investigating 1(268)
Chapter 1 Introduction to Interviewing and Investigating
3(20)
A Why These Skills Are Important to the Lawyer
3(10)
1 The relationship between law and fact
5(1)
2 Factual analysis
6(4)
a Comprehension
6(1)
b Evaluation
7(2)
c Application
9(1)
3 The role of factual investigation in civil litigation
10(1)
a By the attorney for the plaintiff
10(1)
b By the attorney for the defendant
10(1)
4 The role of factual investigation in criminal litigation
11(1)
5 The role of factual investigation in other legal representation
12(1)
B Other Skills and Areas of Knowledge Related to Interviewing and Investigating
13(2)
1 Substantive law
13(1)
2 Legal research and writing
13(1)
3 Rules of evidence
14(1)
4 The adversarial system and rules of procedure
14(1)
5 Ethics and professional responsibility
14(1)
C The Lawyer's Use of Paralegals in Interviewing and Investigating
15(6)
1 Lawyers using paralegals
15(1)
2 Definition of a paralegal
16(1)
3 The paralegal as an agent of the attorney
16(2)
a The actions of the paralegal may be legally binding on the attorney and the client
16(1)
b The attorney may be liable for damages caused to another by the paralegal
16(1)
c The attorney may be sanctioned for actions of the paralegal
17(1)
4 Paralegals as licensed private investigators
18(1)
5 What attorneys expect from paralegals
18(6)
a The willingness to work under the supervision of the attorney
18(1)
b The initiative to clarify assignments
19(1)
c Good judgment
19(1)
d The discipline to keep the supervising attorney well advised
19(1)
e The ability to work well under pressure
19(1)
f Good communication and people skills
19(1)
g Objectivity
19(1)
h Thoroughness
20(1)
i Creativity
20(1)
j Sound interviewing and investigating skills
20(1)
Summary and Conclusion
21(1)
Review Questions
21(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
22(1)
Learn by Doing
22(1)
Chapter 2 Ethical and Professional Responsibilities for Legal Professionals Engaged in Interviewing and Investigating
23(28)
A Sources of Ethical and Professional Responsibility
24(2)
1 State statutes which prohibit the unauthorized practice of law (UPL)
24(1)
2 Mandatory ethical rules governing attorneys
24(1)
3 Ethical rules promulgated for the paralegal
25(1)
4 Guidelines for attorneys and paralegals working together in the law office
25(1)
5 Advisory ethical opinions
25(1)
B Consequences of Unethical Conduct
26(3)
1 To the lawyer
26(2)
a The lawyer may be fired by the client
26(1)
b The lawyer may be sued by the client damaged by the unethical behavior
26(1)
c The lawyer may be sanctioned
27(1)
d The lawyer may face criminal prosecution
27(1)
e The lawyer's reputation may be damaged
27(1)
2 To the paralegal
28(1)
a The paralegal may lose employment
28(1)
b The paralegal may lose certification
28(1)
c The paralegal may lose the right to appear before administrative agencies
28(1)
d The paralegal may be sued by the client damaged by the unethical action
28(1)
e The paralegal may be subject to criminal prosecution
29(1)
f The paralegal's reputation may be tarnished
29(1)
C Specific Ethical and Professional Concerns for Legal Professionals Engaged in Interviewing and Investigating
29(18)
1 The unauthorized practice of law
29(5)
a Establishing an attorney-client relationship
30(1)
b Setting legal fees
30(1)
c Giving legal opinions or legal advice
30(2)
d Representing a client before a court or tribunal
32(1)
e Negotiating a legal matter on behalf of a client
33(1)
f Delegable tasks and the attorney's responsibility to avoid an agent's UPL
33(1)
2 Maintaining client confidences and secrets
34(5)
a The attorney-client privilege
34(1)
b The broader ethical duty of confidentiality
35(1)
c Protecting client information from disclosure
36(3)
3 Competence
39(1)
a Seek good education and training
39(1)
b Seek certification
39(1)
c Stay informed concerning changes in the law and the profession
39(1)
d Stay on the cutting edge of technological advancements
40(1)
e Commit yourself to excellence
40(1)
4 Integrity
40(2)
a Truthfulness in dealing with clients, co-workers, and others
41(1)
b Fidelity in handling client funds and other property
41(1)
c Loyalty
41(1)
5 Diligence and communication with the client
42(1)
6 Conflicts of interest
42(4)
a Simultaneous representation
43(1)
b Representing an interest adverse to a former client
43(1)
1 Before accepting representation
44(1)
2 After representation has begun
44(1)
3 Job changes by a legal professional
44(1)
c Personal relationships
45(1)
d Recognizing potential conflicts
45(1)
7 Disclosure of status in verbal and written communications
46(1)
8 Improper communications
46(1)
9 Discovery of client misconduct
47(4)
a Intent of the client to commit a criminal act
47(1)
b Fraudulent claim or malicious harassment
47(1)
c Commission of fraud on the court or perjury
47(1)
Summary and Conclusion
47(1)
Review Questions
48(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
48(1)
Learn by Doing
49(2)
Chapter 3 The Adversarial System, ADR, and Pre-Filing Investigation
51(42)
A The Adversarial System
51(13)
1 Civil and criminal law
52(1)
2 The court systems
52(1)
3 Rules of procedure
53(3)
4 Rules of evidence
56(1)
5 Court rules
56(1)
6 The cause of action
56(2)
a In a civil suit
56(2)
b In a criminal prosecution
58(1)
7 Remedies
58(2)
a In a civil suit
58(2)
b In a criminal prosecution
60(1)
8 Defenses
60(1)
a In a civil suit
60(1)
b In a criminal prosecution
61(1)
9 The burden and degree of proof
61(1)
a In a civil suit
61(1)
b In a criminal prosecution
61(1)
10 Means of proof
62(1)
11 Statutes of limitation and repose
62(2)
B Administrative Procedures
64(1)
C Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
65(3)
1 Negotiation
65(1)
2 Mediation
66(1)
3 Arbitration
67(1)
D Distinguishing Between Formal Discovery and Informal Investigation
68(2)
1 Formal discovery
68(1)
2 Informal investigation
68(1)
3 The advantages of informal investigation
69(1)
a Early investigation produces more information
69(1)
b Information located early is more reliable
69(1)
c Information sought informally is more easily obtained
69(1)
d Information sought informally is less expensive
69(1)
e No opposing party is present for informal investigation
69(1)
f The first side to locate relevant information gains advantages in litigation
69(1)
g Prompt investigation enhances settlement prospects
69(1)
E Pre-Filing Procedures
70(19)
1 The mandate for pre-filing investigation
70(1)
2 Objectives of pre-filing investigation
71(23)
a To determine if there are facts sufficient to state one or more causes of action
71(1)
b To determine provable damages
72(1)
c To determine if there are facts sufficient to assert a valid defense
72(1)
d To satisfy special pleading requirements
73(1)
e To identify all potential defendants
73(2)
f To determine the assets of identified defendants
75(1)
g To determine questions of personal jurisdiction
76(2)
h To determine questions of subject matter jurisdiction
78(3)
i To determine the proper venue for a case
81(1)
j To determine questions regarding governmental immunity
82(1)
k To accomplish required service of process
83(6)
Summary and Conclusion
89(1)
Review Questions
89(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
90(1)
Learn by Doing
91(2)
Chapter 4 Formal Discovery in Civil Litigation
93(50)
A Introduction
93(1)
B The Scope and Purposes of Formal Discovery in a Civil Case
94(4)
1 The relationship between the scope of formal discovery and the rules of evidence
94(1)
2 Privileged materials not discoverable
95(1)
3 Discovery of experts
95(1)
4 Required voluntary disclosures
96(2)
C Methods of Formal Discovery in a Civil Case
98(22)
1 Depositions (FRCP 27 through 32)
98(8)
a Why lawyers take depositions
98(1)
b Lawyers using paralegals in depositions
99(7)
2 Interrogatories (FRCP 33)
106(6)
a Information to be sought by interrogatories
107(4)
b Lawyers using paralegals in discovery by interrogatories
111(1)
3 Requests for production of documents and things (FRCP 34)
112(6)
a Serving document requests and interrogatories together
114(1)
b Assisting the client to locate and review documents
115(3)
4 Requests for physical or mental examination (FRCP 35)
118(1)
5 Request for admissions (FRCP 36)
118(2)
D Drafting Guidelines for Discovery Documents
120(4)
1 Identify and organize the topics to be addressed
120(1)
2 Use clear and concise language
120(1)
3 Be thorough
121(1)
4 Don't be wordy
121(1)
5 Use subparts carefully
121(1)
6 Use definitions
121(2)
7 Use instructions with caution
123(1)
8 Avoid abusing discovery
124(1)
9 Before responding to discovery requests review them carefully for objections
124(1)
10 In responding to discovery requests, answer only what is fairly asked
124(1)
11 Comply with all rules of procedure and local rules of court regarding discovery
124(1)
E The Order of Discovery
124(1)
1 Interrogatories and document requests
125(1)
2 Depositions
125(1)
3 Requests for physical or mental examination
125(1)
4 Requests for admissions
125(1)
F Discovery of Electronically Stored Information (E-Discovery)
125(13)
1 The explosion in electronically stored information (ESI)
125(2)
2 ESI as potentially relevant evidence
127(1)
3 The litigation hold and dangers of spoliation of evidence
128(4)
4 Undue hardship and technology assisted review (TAR) in e-discovery
132(2)
5 ESI production and waiver of attorney-client or work product privileges
134(3)
6 Other e-discovery amendments to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure
137(1)
Summary and Conclusion
138(1)
Review Questions
138(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
139(1)
Learn by Doing
140(3)
Chapter 5 Formal Discovery in Criminal Litigation
143(36)
A The Scope of Formal Discovery in Criminal Litigation
143(1)
B Means of Formal Discovery Available to the Defense in Criminal Litigation
144(25)
1 Review of the criminal complaint
145(3)
2 The initial appearance or arraignment
148(3)
3 The preliminary hearing
151(1)
a Frequently, no preliminary hearing is held
152(1)
b There typically is little time to prepare for the preliminary hearing
152(1)
c The prosecution need not present its entire case at the preliminary hearing
152(1)
4 The information and the indictment
152(4)
5 The bill of particulars
156(2)
6 Rule 16 discovery
158(6)
a Statements of the defendant
159(1)
b The criminal record of the defendant
159(1)
c Documents, electronically stored information, and things
160(3)
d Reports of examinations and tests
163(1)
e Expert witnesses
163(1)
f Procedure for conducting Rule 16 discovery
164(1)
7 Identity of witnesses
164(1)
8 Statements of witnesses
164(1)
9 Exculpatory material - the Brady doctrine
165(1)
10 Depositions
165(1)
11 Documents, records, and things from non-parties
166(1)
12 Motions as discovery devices
167(1)
a The motion to dismiss
167(1)
b The motion to suppress
168(1)
c The motion in limine
168(1)
13 The Freedom of Information Act and the Privacy Act
168(1)
C Means of Formal Discovery Available to the Prosecution in Criminal Litigation
169(3)
1 The initial appearance
169(1)
2 The preliminary hearing
169(1)
3 Grand jury testimony
169(1)
4 Rule 16 discovery
169(2)
a Documents and objects
170(1)
b Reports of examinations and tests
170(1)
c Expert witnesses
171(1)
5 Statements of witnesses
171(1)
6 Prior notice of affirmative defenses
171(2)
a Alibi witnesses
171(1)
b Insanity defense
171(1)
c Public authority defense
172(1)
D The Resolution of Discovery Disputes in Criminal Litigation
172(1)
E Lawyers Using Paralegals in Formal Criminal Discovery
173(2)
1 Attendance at pretrial proceedings
173(1)
2 Review and analysis of court filings
173(1)
3 Drafting discovery documents and related motions
173(1)
4 Familiarity with discovery procedures
174(1)
5 Familiarity with forms
174(1)
6 Reviewing documents, reports, and summaries
174(1)
7 Assisting the client in responding to discovery requests
174(1)
Summary and Conclusion
175(1)
Review Questions
176(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
176(1)
Learn by Doing
177(2)
Chapter 6 Rules of Evidence for the Investigator - Part 1
179(22)
A Introduction to the Rules of Evidence
180(6)
1 What the rules of evidence do
180(1)
2 The burden of proof
180(1)
a In a civil case
180(1)
b In a criminal prosecution
181(1)
3 The standard or degree of proof
181(1)
a Ina civil case
181(1)
b In a criminal prosecution
181(1)
4 Means of proof
182(1)
5 First-hand and second-hand knowledge
182(2)
6 Direct and circumstantial evidence
184(1)
7 Laying the foundation
184(1)
8 Rulings on admissibility and offers of proof
185(1)
B The Role of the Rules of Evidence in Interviewing and Investigating
186(6)
1 Planning and carrying out effective informal investigations
186(1)
2 Putting discovered information in admissible form
187(1)
3 Drafting formal discovery requests and responses
188(1)
4 Drafting affidavits or declarations for use in pretrial motions
189(3)
5 Planning the evidence to be offered at trial
192(1)
6 Assisting the lawyer at trial
192(1)
C The Doctrine of Privileges
192(5)
1 Work product and trial preparation materials
193(1)
2 The physician-patient privilege
194(1)
3 The psychotherapist-patient privilege
194(1)
4 The spousal confidential communications privilege
194(1)
5 The spousal testimony privilege
195(1)
6 The privilege against self-incrimination
196(1)
7 Miscellaneous privileges
196(1)
8 Procedural matters relating to privileges
196(1)
Summary and Conclusion
197(1)
Review Questions
197(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
198(1)
Learn by Doing
198(3)
Chapter 7 Rules of Evidence for the Investigator-Part 2
201(42)
A Relevance
202(1)
B Lay Witnesses
203(1)
C Expert Witnesses
203(2)
D Examination of Witnesses
205(1)
E The Rule Against Hearsay
205(17)
1 Hearsay defined
205(5)
a Is it a statement?
205(1)
b Is it a statement made out of court?
206(1)
c Is it a statement offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted?
207(3)
d Is there a recognized exemption or exception for the statement?
210(1)
2 Admission by party opponent exemption
210(1)
3 Prior inconsistent statement made under oath exemption
211(1)
4 Prior consistent statement offered to rebut charge of recent fabrication exemption
211(1)
5 Prior statement identifying a person perceived earlier exemption
212(1)
6 FRE 803 exceptions to the hearsay rule - availability of declarant immaterial
212(5)
a Present sense impression (FRE 803(1))
213(1)
b Excited utterance (FRE 803(2))
213(1)
c Current state of mind or condition (FRE 803(3))
213(1)
d Statements made for purposes of medical diagnosis or treatment (FRE 803(4))
214(1)
e Recorded recollection (FRE 803(5))
215(1)
f Business records (FRE 803(6) and (7))
215(1)
g Public records (FRE 803(8) and (10))
216(1)
h Other FRE 803 exceptions
216(1)
7 FRE 804 exceptions to the hearsay rule - applicable where the declarant is unavailable to testify
217(3)
a Former sworn testimony (FRE 804(b)(1))
217(1)
b Statement under belief of imminent death (FRE 804 (b)(2))
218(1)
c Statement against interest (FRE 804(b)(3))
219(1)
d Statement offered against or by one who caused or procured declarant's unavailability (FRE 804(a) and (b)(6))
219(1)
8 The residual exception (FRE 807)
220(1)
9 Hearsay and the Confrontation Clause
221(1)
F Character Evidence
222(5)
1 The criminal accused
223(1)
2 Where character is an essential element of a claim or defense
224(1)
3 Other crimes, wrongs, or acts
225(1)
4 A witness's character for truthfulness
226(1)
5 Character for truthfulness of a witness as evidenced by conviction of a felony or other crime involving dishonesty
226(1)
G Impeaching a Witness by Showing Bias or Interest
227(2)
H Attacking a Witness's Credibility Using Religious Beliefs or Opinions
229(1)
I Authentication of Documents and Things
229(4)
1 Authenticating physical objects
229(1)
2 Authenticating demonstrative evidence
230(1)
3 Authenticating documents and electronic records
230(2)
4 Authenticating voices
232(1)
J Best Evidence Rule
233(1)
K Generally Prohibited Matters
233(3)
1 Subsequent remedial measures
233(1)
2 Settlement discussions and offers
234(1)
3 Paying or offering to pay expenses
234(1)
4 Plea bargain discussions or a guilty plea later withdrawn
235(1)
5 Liability insurance
235(1)
L Final Considerations Regarding Evidence
236(1)
1 Admissibility for alternative reasons
236(1)
2 Clearing all the hurdles
237(1)
Summary and Conclusion
237(1)
Review Questions
238(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
238(1)
Learn by Doing
239(4)
Chapter 8 Communication Skills for the Investigator
243(26)
A The Importance of Communication in the Work of Legal Professionals
244(1)
1 How we all communicate
244(1)
a Verbal communication
244(1)
b Written communication
244(1)
c Nonverbal communication
244(1)
2 The importance of written and verbal communication
244(1)
3 The importance of nonverbal communication
245(1)
B Verbal Communication - It's More Than the Words
245(5)
1 Tone of voice
245(1)
2 Volume
246(1)
3 Rate of speaking
246(1)
4 Voice inflection
246(1)
5 Enunciation
247(1)
6 Vocabulary
247(1)
7 Grammar
247(1)
8 Slang, colloquialisms, idioms, and accents
248(2)
a Slang
248(1)
b Colloquialisms
249(1)
c Idioms
249(1)
d Accents
250(1)
C Nonverbal Communication - Body Language
250(5)
1 Body position
251(1)
2 Facial expressions
252(1)
3 Eye contact
253(1)
4 Nervous signals
253(1)
5 The sounds of silence
254(1)
6 Clothes and environment
254(1)
D Written (Including Electronic) Communication
255(7)
1 Be aware of grammar
255(1)
2 Use tools for effective writing
256(1)
3 Avoid slang and colloquialisms
256(1)
4 Be precise
256(1)
5 Be thorough but concise
256(1)
6 Avoid repetition
257(1)
7 Be consistent
257(1)
8 Use shorter, simpler, non-technical words
257(1)
9 Use paragraphs
258(1)
10 Use drafts and proof your work
258(1)
11 Protect confidentiality and privilege
258(1)
12 Practice makes perfect-and reading helps too
259(1)
13 Special considerations for electronic communications (netiquette)
259(3)
E Putting Communication Skills to Work in Interviewing and Investigating
262(4)
1 What are you communicating to others?
262(1)
2 What are others communicating to you?
263(1)
3 Suggestions for phone communications
263(2)
a Your voice is critical
264(1)
b Identify yourself properly
264(1)
c Return calls promptly
264(1)
d Sound interested - even if you're not
264(1)
e Take notes while you talk
264(1)
f Phone ego- "Please hold for Mr. Big"
264(1)
g Phone conversations with information sources
264(1)
4 The investigator as a LOvER!
265(7)
a A Listener
265(1)
b An Observer
265(1)
c An Evaluator
265(1)
d A Reporter
266(1)
Summary and Conclusion
266(1)
Review Questions
266(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
267(1)
Learn by Doing
267(2)
Part 2: Formulating and Executing a Plan of Investigation 269(266)
Chapter 9 Formulating a Plan of Investigation
271(30)
A Introduction
272(1)
B Traits of the Effective Investigator
272(7)
1 The effective investigator is knowledgeable
272(1)
2 The effective investigator is skilled
272(1)
3 The effective investigator is persistent
273(1)
4 The effective investigator is creative
274(2)
5 The effective investigator is perceptive
276(1)
6 The effective investigator is skeptical
277(1)
a Evaluate the source of information
277(1)
b Test information for internal consistency
278(1)
c Look for gaps in information
278(1)
d Compare new information to information already gathered
278(1)
e Seek corroborating information
278(1)
f Seek explanations and details
278(1)
g Seek leads to more information
278(1)
7 The effective investigator is flexible
278(1)
C The Importance of Having a Plan of Investigation
279(1)
D Formulating a Plan of Investigation
280(8)
1 Start with what you already know
280(1)
2 Identify the specific goals of your investigation
281(2)
a Consider the law of the case
281(2)
b Write down the ultimate goals of the investigation
283(1)
3 Brainstorm for specifics
283(1)
4 Identify all possible sources of information
284(1)
5 Organize your plan into a logical format and chart it
284(4)
a The chronological to-do list format
286(1)
b The topical format
286(1)
c The sources format
287(1)
d The cause of action format
287(1)
E Limitations on a Plan of Investigation
288(3)
1 The amount of work actually required
289(1)
2 The cost of the work to be done
289(1)
3 The value of the case
289(1)
4 The resources of the client
290(1)
5 The resources of the law office
290(1)
6 Client authorization 290 F Flexibility of a Plan of Investigation
290(1)
G The Handling of Documents and Physical Evidence During an Investigation
291(5)
1 Distinguishing between documentary and physical evidence
291(1)
2 Creating demonstrative evidence
291(1)
3 The role of the rules of evidence in handling documents and things
292(2)
4 Procedures for handling documents and things in your custody
294(1)
a Label the evidence
294(1)
b Secure the evidence
294(1)
c Keep an evidence log
294(1)
5 Procedures for documents and things not in your custody
295(1)
H The Importance of Diligence and Thoroughness in Executing a Plan of Investigation
296(1)
1 Diligence
296(1)
2 Thoroughness
296(1)
Summary and Conclusion
297(1)
Review Questions
297(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
298(1)
Learn by Doing
298(3)
Chapter 10 Preparing for a Client Interview
301(38)
A Introduction to Interviewing
301(2)
1 Persons to interview
301(1)
a Clients
302(1)
b Fact witnesses
302(1)
c Other information sources
302(1)
2 Different methods and locations for interviews
302(1)
B Reasons for Conducting Client Interviews
303(1)
1 The initial client interview
303(1)
2 Subsequent information-gathering interviews
303(1)
3 The update or status report interview
303(1)
C Goals of the Initial Client Interview
303(1)
D Scheduling the Initial Client Interview
304(3)
1 Check all participants' schedules before you call
304(1)
2 Have several dates and times in mind before you call
304(1)
3 Allow for plenty of time
304(1)
4 Make sure the interview room is available
305(1)
5 Consider what the client needs to bring
305(1)
6 Identify yourself when you call
305(1)
7 Cover all necessary details in the scheduling'call
305(1)
8 Take comprehensive notes during the scheduling call
305(1)
9 Things to do following the scheduling call
305(2)
E Preparing for the Initial Client Interview
307(28)
1 Prepare forms
307(6)
a Records authorizations
307(3)
b Fee agreements
310(3)
2 Prepare your questions
313(12)
a Review your notes
315(1)
b Consider what you know so far of the legal question involved
315(1)
c Consider special needs of the client
316(1)
d Brainstorm a list of topics to be covered
316(1)
e Organize the topics in a logical fashion
316(2)
f Prepare specific questions within each topic
318(4)
g Consider the phrasing of questions
322(2)
h Put questions in a format consistent with any checklist or intake sheet being used
324(1)
i Put questions in a format conducive to taking good notes during the interview
324(1)
j Be flexible-always expect to ask other questions in the interview
324(1)
k Have the supervising attorney review questions and forms
325(1)
3 Using a checklist or intake sheet
325(2)
4 Prepare the physical environment where the interview is to take place
327(1)
5 Give thought to any special needs of the client
327(1)
6 Plan the seating arrangement
327(7)
a In an office with a desk
328(1)
b At a rectangular conference table
328(3)
c At a rounded conference table
331(1)
d Other considerations in seating
331(3)
7 Preserve confidentiality and avoid interruptions during the interview
334(1)
8 Be physically and mentally prepared for the interview
334(6)
a Get enough rest the night before the interview
334(1)
b Leave your personal life outside the interview room
334(1)
Summary and Conclusion
335(1)
Review Questions
336(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
336(1)
Learn by Doing
337(2)
Chapter 11 Conducting a Client Interview
339(28)
A Introduction
339(1)
B Ten Things to Remember Throughout the Client Interview
340(3)
1 Be friendly but professional
340(1)
2 Avoid legal or technical jargon except as necessary
340(1)
3 Be cognizant of the dangers of the unauthorized practice of law
340(1)
4 Take good notes
341(1)
5 Engage in active listening
341(1)
6 Evaluate the demeanor and behavior of the client
341(1)
7 The client will not know what to tell you-you have to ask
341(1)
8 Remember the commandments
341(1)
a Assume nothing
342(1)
b Verify everything
342(1)
9 Keep an emotional distance between yourself and the client
342(1)
10 Overcome internal obstacles to effective interviewing
342(1)
a Concentrating too intently on your next question
342(1)
b Concentrating too hard on taking good notes
342(1)
c Being a slave to the prepared list of questions
343(1)
d Letting your own biases affect you
343(1)
C The Order and Manner of Conducting a Client Interview
343(20)
1 Greeting the client
343(2)
2 Beginning the interview
345(2)
a If appropriate, express empathy toward the client
345(1)
b Explain the absence of the supervising attorney
345(1)
c Explain your role as a paralegal or associate attorney
345(1)
d Explain the attorney-client privilege
346(1)
e Briefly review the goals to be accomplished in the interview
346(1)
f Explain that you will be taking notes during the interview
346(1)
g Ask if the client has any questions
346(1)
h Obtain biographical information for the file
346(1)
3 Conducting the substantive portion of the interview
347(8)
a Briefly review any documents the client brought
347(1)
b Obtain a broad overview of the client's story
347(1)
c Fill in gaps in the information given
348(1)
d Ask for definitions of unfamiliar words and phrases
348(1)
e Ask for details
348(1)
f Ask for leads to witnesses and documents
349(1)
g If helpful, have the client draw a sketch or diagram
349(1)
h Establish an accurate chronology of events
350(1)
i Clarify errors, inconsistencies, or vagueness in the client's story
351(1)
j Verify all information given as best you can
352(2)
k Seek corroborating information
354(1)
l Get the particulars on persons and documents or records mentioned
354(1)
m Review documents closely and copy or arrange to keep them
354(1)
n Determine what the client wants
355(1)
o Check off the topics on your question list as you go
355(1)
4 Dealing with special problem clients
355(2)
a The reluctant client
355(1)
b The highly emotional client
356(1)
c The self-important or condescending client
356(1)
d The obviously lying client
357(1)
5 Concluding the client interview
357(1)
6 The role of the assisting paralegal when the supervising attorney conducts the interview
358(1)
7 Following the interview
359(9)
a If needed, do another conflict of interest check
359(1)
b Prepare an interview summary
359(1)
c Prepare a follow-up letter to the client
359(4)
D Subsequent Client Interviews and Contacts
363(1)
Summary and Conclusion
364(1)
Review Questions
365(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
365(1)
Learn by Doing
366(1)
Chapter 12 Preparing for a Witness Interview
367(18)
A Introduction
367(1)
B Goals of the Witness Interview
367(1)
C Kinds of Witnesses
368(8)
1 The friendly witness
368(1)
2 The hostile witness
368(2)
a Be friendly and patient with the witness
369(1)
b Try to get the witness to like you
369(1)
c Use the witness's natural instinct to help
369(1)
d Use subpoena power as a motivator - if you must
369(1)
3 The neutral or disinterested witness
370(1)
4 The skeptical witness
371(1)
5 The nosey witness
372(1)
6 The busy witness
372(1)
7 The too-helpful witness
372(1)
8 The show-off witness
373(1)
9 The big-ego witness
373(1)
10 The condescending witness
373(1)
11 Special problem witnesses
374(2)
a Language barriers
374(1)
b Physical barriers
374(1)
c Mental barriers
374(1)
d The Romeo (or Juliet!)
375(1)
e The witness for sale
375(1)
D Scheduling and Preparing for the Witness Interview
376(6)
1 Scheduling the witness interview
377(1)
2 Preparing for the witness interview
377(1)
3 Special considerations in scheduling and preparing for a witness interview
378(8)
a Contacting a witness represented by counsel
378(1)
b Preserving client confidences and secrets
378(1)
c Don't use tricks
378(1)
d The location of the witness interview - the field interview
379(2)
e Telephone interviews and sound or video recording interviews
381(1)
f Planning multiple witness interviews
381(1)
Summary and Conclusion
382(1)
Review Questions
382(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
382(1)
Learn by Doing
383(2)
Chapter 13 Conducting a Witness Interview
385(30)
A Introduction
385(1)
B Things to Remember Throughout the Witness Interview
386(3)
1 Observe and evaluate the witness's environment
386(2)
2 Overcome external obstacles to active listening and observing
388(1)
3 Avoid disclosing confidential or privileged information
388(1)
C The Order and Manner of Conducting a Witness Interview
389(8)
1 Beginning the interview
389(1)
a Greet the witness
389(1)
b Express appreciation for the witness's cooperation
390(1)
c Disclose your status as a paralegal
390(1)
d Briefly state the purpose of your interview
390(1)
e Obtain background information on the witness
390(1)
2 Conducting the substantive portion of the witness interview
390(3)
a Briefly review any documents the witness has made available
390(1)
b Obtain a narrative summary of what the witness knows
391(1)
c Fill in gaps in the story
391(1)
d Ask the witness to define unfamiliar terms or concepts
391(1)
e Ask for details
391(1)
f Seek leads to other witnesses and documents
391(1)
g If helpful, have the witness draw a sketch or diagram
392(1)
h Establish the chronology of events known to the witness
392(1)
i Clarify errors, inconsistencies, or vague points
392(1)
j Attempt to verify information provided by the witness
392(1)
k Ask about corroborating sources
392(1)
l Ask about smart phone recordings and social media
392(1)
m Get the particulars on all persons and documents mentioned
392(1)
n Make copies of documents produced or arrange to keep them
393(1)
o Ask the witness to tell you anything else they remember
393(1)
p Ask about other interviews or statements given
393(1)
q Make sure you have covered everything
393(1)
3 Impeaching a witness
393(3)
a Inconsistencies or contradictions in the statement
394(1)
b Unreliability of the witness's information
394(1)
c Bias of the witness
394(1)
d Interest of the witness in the outcome of the case
395(1)
e History of the witness affecting credibility
396(1)
4 Concluding the witness interview
396(1)
5 The interview summary
396(1)
D Audio or Video Recording the Interview
397(7)
1 Obtain the prior consent of the supervising attorney
397(2)
2 Consider using a court reporter
399(1)
3 Obtain the witness's consent before electronically recording
400(1)
4 Repeat and record the statement of consent
400(1)
5 Identify yourself and your position in the recording
400(1)
6 State the date and time the interview begins
400(1)
7 Identify all persons present
400(1)
8 Handling interruptions in the interview
401(1)
9 Avoid "talking over"
402(1)
10 How to conclude the electronically recorded interview
402(1)
11 Transcribe the recording or prepare a summary
403(1)
12 If appropriate, provide the witness a transcript or digital copy of the interview
403(1)
13 Preserve the recorded interview
403(1)
E The Voice-Only Interview
404(1)
1 Speak and listen carefully
404(1)
2 Ensure privacy and preserve confidentiality
404(1)
3 Using documents or things in a voice-only interview
404(1)
4 Recording the voice-only interview
405(1)
F The Written Witness Statement
405(6)
1 The format of a witness statement
406(1)
2 How attorneys use witness statements
406(1)
3 Preparing the written witness statement
406(9)
a It should identify the witness by name and state the date of the interview
406(1)
b It should be written in the witness's own words
407(1)
c It should state the total number of pages it contains
407(1)
d The pages of the statement should be numbered
407(1)
e Every page should be signed or initialed by the witness
407(1)
f It should be read and corrected by the witness before it is signed
407(3)
g It should be signed by the witness
410(1)
Summary and Conclusion
411(1)
Review Questions
411(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
412(1)
Learn by Doing
412(3)
Chapter 14 Identifying and Locating Fact Witnesses
415(22)
A Introduction
415(1)
B Identifying Fact Witnesses
415(10)
1 People sources
416(5)
a The client
416(1)
b Other witnesses
416(1)
c The investigating officer(s)
416(1)
d Ambulance, rescue squad, and emergency room personnel
417(1)
e Video cameras in private or public areas
417(1)
f Canvassing the scene or neighborhood
417(1)
g The neighborhood regulars
418(1)
h The reporting media
418(1)
i Solicitations in traditional and social media
418(3)
2 Document and records sources
421(4)
a Medical records
421(1)
b Employment records
422(1)
c Educational records
422(1)
d Personal correspondence and journaling
422(1)
e Online correspondence and social networking data
422(2)
f Business records
424(1)
g Personal credit, utility, and financial records
424(1)
h Public records - local, state, and federal
425(1)
C Locating Missing Witnesses
425(9)
1 Let's play This Is Your Life
425(2)
2 Sources of information for locating the missing witness
427(10)
a People sources
427(1)
b Organizational sources
428(1)
c Documentary sources
428(3)
d Social networking and people search websites
431(1)
e People search database vendors
432(1)
f Determining if someone has died
432(1)
g Locating former employees
432(1)
h Locating current or former members of the military
432(1)
i Locating current or former prison inmates
433(1)
j Tracing companies
433(1)
k Genealogical and genetic testing services
433(1)
Summary and Conclusion
434(1)
Review Questions
434(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
434(1)
Learn by Doing
435(2)
Chapter 15 Working with Expert Witnesses
437(22)
A Who Experts Are and Why Attorneys Use Them
437(5)
1 The definition of an expert and the admissibility of expert testimony
437(2)
2 Distinguishing consulting experts from testifying experts
439(1)
3 How attorneys use experts
440(2)
B Locating Qualified Expert Witnesses
442(3)
1 Attorneys or paralegals in the office
442(1)
2 Other attorneys or paralegals in the community
442(1)
3 Attorneys or paralegals in other parts of the country
442(1)
4 Lawyer organizations
442(1)
5 Referral companies
443(1)
6 Directories
443(1)
7 Professional, technical, and trade organizations
443(1)
8 Private businesses
443(1)
9 Colleges and universities
443(1)
10 Government agencies
444(1)
11 Literature in the field of expertise
444(1)
12 Other experts
444(1)
13 The Expert's Webpage
444(1)
C Evaluating the Expert
445(5)
1 Why we evaluate experts
445(1)
2 The expert's resume
445(1)
3 How to evaluate an expert
445(5)
a Look for education, training, and work experience
445(1)
b Look at the specific area of expertise
445(1)
c Verify information on the resume
445(2)
d Check the expert's online presence
447(1)
e Review the expert's publications
448(1)
f Review publications on which the expert bases an opinion
448(1)
g Locate and review prior testimony by the expert
448(1)
h Ask for references
449(1)
i Interview the expert
449(1)
D Working Successfully with Expert Witnesses
450(5)
1 Obtain the expert's fee schedule early
450(1)
2 Be sure the expert does not have a conflict of interest
451(1)
3 Become familiar with technical terms and concepts in the expert's field
451(1)
4 Do not identify the expert in discovery until the decision has been made to use the expert for testimony
452(1)
5 Do not supply the expert with privileged materials
452(1)
6 Always communicate a neutral picture of the case to the expert
453(1)
7 Provide materials requested by the expert promptly
454(1)
8 Keep a record of all materials sent to or received from the expert
454(1)
9 Do not allow the expert to put preliminary opinions in writing
455(1)
10 Be familiar with all rules of evidence and procedure that apply to the expert
455(1)
Summary and Conclusion
455(1)
Review Questions
456(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
456(1)
Learn by Doing
456(3)
Chapter 16 Public Sources of Information - Federal
459(24)
A Introduction
459(1)
B Public Records in General
460(1)
C The Importance of Knowing How Government Works
460(1)
D Structure of the Federal Government
461(1)
E Determining What a Federal Agency or Department Does and the Records It Maintains
461(6)
1 Experienced people in the office
461(2)
2 Government publications
463(1)
3 Data.Gov and agency websites
463(2)
4 State and local bar directories and handbooks
465(1)
5 The phone book
465(1)
6 Publications
465(1)
7 Enabling statutes and regulations
465(2)
F How to Access Information from the Federal Government
467(12)
1 The judicial branch - court records
467(2)
a Kinds of information available in federal court records
467(1)
b How to conduct searches in federal court records
467(1)
c Computerized resources for searching federal court records
468(1)
2 The legislative branch - Congress
469(1)
a Congress online
470(1)
b Accessing Congress through database vendors
470(1)
3 The executive branch
470(14)
a Executive orders
470(1)
b Obtaining information from the White House
471(1)
c Obtaining information from executive agencies
471(8)
Summary and Conclusion
479(1)
Review Questions
480(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
480(1)
Learn by Doing
481(2)
Chapter 17 Public Sources of Information - State and Local
483(26)
A The Structure of State and Local Governments
483(1)
B Records Maintained by State Governments
484(6)
1 Vital statistics
485(1)
2 Motor vehicle and driving records
486(1)
3 Corporate and other business records as public records
486(1)
4 Licensing and registration records
487(1)
5 Regulatory commission records
487(1)
6 Tax and revenue records
488(1)
7 Securities filings
488(1)
8 Social service agencies records
488(1)
9 Workers' compensation records
488(1)
10 Law enforcement records
488(2)
C Records Maintained by Local Governments
490(6)
1 Records of civil and criminal cases in court clerk's offices
490(1)
2 Law enforcement records
491(1)
3 Permits and licenses
492(1)
4 Real property transfer records in register/recorder of deeds office
492(1)
5 Tax records in assessor's offices
493(1)
6 Probate court records
493(1)
7 Vital statistics
493(1)
8 Voting records in election commission offices
493(1)
9 Public utilities records
493(1)
10 Public school records
493(1)
11 The public library
494(2)
D State Public Records Acts and Other Statutes and Rules Controlling Accessibility
496(6)
1 What is an accessible "public record" under a state PRA?
496(3)
2 Who can access a public record using a state PRA?
499(1)
3 Procedure for accessing public records under a state PRA
499(3)
E Other Sources for Accessing State and Local Government Records
502(3)
1 State and local government sponsored "open data" sites
502(1)
2 Non-governmental websites
503(1)
3 Online database vendors
503(2)
4 Public records search companies
505(1)
Summary and Conclusion
505(1)
Review Questions
506(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
506(1)
Learn by Doing
507(2)
Chapter 18 Private Sources of Information
509(26)
A An Overview of Private Sources of Information
509(3)
B Accessing Private Sources of Information
512(18)
1 Medical records
512(5)
a Obtaining medical records by written patient authorization
512(1)
b Drafting the medical records authorization
513(1)
c Using the medical records authorization
513(2)
d Special medical records authorizations
515(1)
e Obtaining medical records by court order
515(1)
f Obtaining medical records by Rule 45 subpoena
516(1)
2 Employment records
517(1)
3 Educational records
518(1)
4 Other sources of academic information
519(1)
5 Address and phone records
519(1)
a Finding address and phone numbers
519(1)
b Accessing unlisted phone numbers
520(1)
c Phone call records and wiretapping
520(1)
6 Credit records on individuals
520(2)
7 Credit information on businesses
522(1)
8 Bank account, credit card, and general financial information on individuals
523(1)
9 Financial and general business data on corporations and other businesses
524(1)
10 Online database vendors
525(2)
11 Background check companies
527(1)
12 Private investigative firms
528(2)
a Locating a reliable private investigator
529(1)
b Working effectively with a private investigator
529(1)
C Personal Surveillance
530(1)
Summary and Conclusion
531(1)
Review Questions
532(1)
Key Words and Phrases to Remember
532(1)
Learn by Doing
533(2)
Appendix: Case Studies 535(12)
Case Study No. 1: The Rowdy Outlaw Case
537(3)
Case Study No. 2: The Red Dog Saloon Case
540(2)
Case Study No. 3: The Vidalia Unyon Case
542(3)
Case Study No. 4: The Rocky Road Project
545(2)
Glossary 547(22)
Table of Cases 569(2)
Index 571