A guide to the basics of becoming a paralegal, from getting certified to landing a job, in a book with sample memos, forms, and legal documents on a compact disc.

Includes index.

Discovering the paralegal profession -- Membership has its privileges : paralegal associations and their certification exams -- The hunt is on : securing a paralegal position -- "All rise" : the American judicial system -- The big three : categories of law -- Taking a case to trial : the litigation process -- How it's done : important rules of civil procedure and evidence -- Because I said so : the categories of legal authority -- The substantive law areas most commonly practiced by paralegals -- The paper chase : preparing documents -- Elementary my dear Watson : legal investigation -- Chewing the fat : legal interviewing -- Burning the midnight oil : legal research -- Where the rubber hits the road : trial performance -- The official word : ethical codes for legal professionals -- Write on : presenting a clear, concise legal writing style -- The latest thing : using technology in law -- Law office management 101 -- The ten most important rules of ethics -- Ten things every paralegal should know -- Ten survival tips to thrive in the legal environment.