There is hope in the world of virtual paralegals

[dawndmd]

I am writing this post to give encouragement to those who are venturing out in the world of providing virtual paralegal services to attorneys. Back in May 2008, I was laid off from my paralegal position at a wireless telecom company due to the company closing down. But, since before then, January 2008, I had started researching the concept of becoming a "virtual paralegal". I launched my company "The Virtual Paralegal" in June 2008 with high hopes that this concept would be welcome by attorneys. Yes...sometimes in the past couple months I had my doubts about the welcome concept. But...not anymore.

With help through this forum and online networking groups, such as LinkedIn and Biznik, and a very well optimized and informational web site, I see my future looking up. In the past couple weeks, I have been concentrating on network marketing my company and it is working. I have contracted two attorneys this week and am patiently awaiting a third. I have spoken to attorneys across the nation about this concept and I have found it seem to be more welcome than I had anticipated. My contract with an Illinois attorney happened last night. He called me 4 days ago and advised that he found my business through my LinkedIn post on a lawyers group I singed up on and went to my web site and decided by my web site to look further into utilizing a VP rather than hire an in-house paralegal. He called me again last night and contracted with me.

This, I believe, is how I have become successful in obtaining responsive attorneys and law firms to the concept of utilizing my services rather then hiring an employee:

• A professional appearing web site, which includes information about my business, experience and cost effectiveness of utilizing my services
• Joining local network groups - so much potential right in your own backyard
• Joining LinkedIn and Biznik online network groups - and work it. Don't sign up and not spend any time there. I spend at least 10 minutes a day at LinkedIn.
• Make friends on forums such as this forum. I have had one virtual opportunity come my way due to a friendship I have made here.
• Only provide the services you are experienced at.

Don't give up your concept idea of becoming a virtual paralegal. I do see a trend happening in the virtual world of attorneys and staff.

[VirtualJuliana]

Thanks for posting this, Dawn - I've been doing virtual legal secretary & transcription work for a few months. Business is very slow but time-wise that works out since I'm completing an online paralegal program & needs lots of time for homework & exams. I have an idea that once I get the certification and start communicating with a larger sphere, i.e. attorneys outside my area, I will "click" with one who embraces technology.

Much gratitude for the hope you've given me!

Juliana

[Jessi27M]

Thank you for this thread. I have a degree in paralegalism, but I don't want to do it on a full time basis or give my life up for it again. However, if the right opportunity came up and it was nothing like I experienced in my last law firm, I wouldn't mind doing research again. I miss that part of it. I think next year I might push that a little more maybe with some of the smaller firms in my area, if my other assignments slow down during that time. I do think a break from it has been good, but I'm starting to get that itch again. I love legal work, but I don't love the office politics behind it. Being a VA in that area would be a great way to get a taste again without feeling overwhelmed. I guess I should think about joining my husband when he goes to his networking events starting next year.

[katekindred]

Congratulations, Dawn, that's great news for you! Sometimes it seems as if the negotiations with attys will never end, and other times they seem quite receptive to the VA idea. The whole social media idea is new to me, this is my first forum membership, I guess I've been a bit of a loner! I am just now starting to get involved at linkedin. Although I've been in business for many years, I work mainly with bankruptcy attys and in 2005 when the bankruptcy laws changed, I lost over 50% of my clients. I have been in rebuild mode ever since, but things have been going well recently. I'm glad to hear about what's working for you.

[lsmapp]

Thanks, it is so nice to read an encouraging post like this. I've been working toward specializing in virtual legal assistance/paralegal work but so far haven't signed a lawyer! I have found some VA clients and have worked hard to network with lawyers and I know that the networking is bound to pay off in time. I've even been contacted by lawyers but it hasn't progressed beyond contact yet! Thanks for helping me keep the faith!

[LindaK]

Thank you, Dawn, for this inspiring post. I am currently working toward a Paralegal degree. I joined this forum to see what type of chatter was out there for independently contracted work. You have one advantage, experience, however, competence and communication are key elements that, I think, will allow someone with less experience to gain clientele. I have a lot of administrative and accounting background. I love legal research and details. Once again, thank you for the inspiration as I work my way to the light at the end of the tunnel.

[CardinalPointVA]

How right you are! This was a great post. I think you have hit the nail on the head in your assessment.

The great thing about attorneys is they are great at giving referrals. And word-of-mouth will always (in my book) be the best form of advertising. So if you keep your clients happy, you will eventually find a steady stream of referrals coming your way. That's truly gold.

Good luck.

[Protege Business Solutions]

Dawn, Thank you for the encouragement. As you mentioned you lost your job due to lay off, the same happened to me this January 2009. I am in the process of launching my VA legal business and just have so many questions. Your post helps so much. Any advice you have would be much appreciated.
Bonnie

[Kathy Altman]

Thanks Dawn. I was hired by my first attorney when he downsized and had to let his paralegal go. Though this attorney, I now have others after he referred my services out. It just takes one!