About Us
The American Bar Association definition of a Paralegal
(adopted by the ABA House of Delegates in August 1997, updated as of Feb. 2020)
“A paralegal is a person, qualified by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.”
AAPI'S GOALS
To further education among members of the profession.
AAPi recognizes the importance of the paralegal staying abreast of the latest developments in technology and the areas in which the paralegal works. To meet those needs, AAPi sponsors seminars throughout the state, taught by attorneys, attorney/paralegal teams, and legal educators. Many seminars include practical workshops designed to meet the needs of those entering the profession, as well as the needs of the experienced paralegal.
To encourage a high order of ethical and professional attainment.
In agreeing to be bound by the Canons and the Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility of AAPi and NALA on becoming a member, one also agrees to be governed by the Code of Professional Responsibility of the American Bar Association. No higher goal could be more desirous in the legal profession.
To collaborate with bar associations.
AAPi provides a link with the Alabama Bar Association and collaborates and assists local associations in better understanding the role and utilization of paralegals within the profession.
To establish superior Community among AAPi members, NALA | The Paralegal Association, and members of the legal community.
AAPi membership provides the basis for growth, strength, and accomplishment of professional goals. Through fellowship we share experiences and build positively on those experiences. It is through our sharing of ideas with our membership and with those who share our common goals that we achieve our professional objectives.
To support and carry out the programs, purposes and goals of NALA.
As an affiliate of the NALA | The Paralegal Association, AAPi provides the opportunity for national involvement in the paralegal profession. NALA strives for the professional development and continuing education of paralegals throughout the United States.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
The Alabama Association of Paralegals, Inc., (AAPi) advocates for and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion within the paralegal profession. We recognize we must build on and derive strength from inclusion, equity, diversity, and those initiatives that promote it. AAPi encourages and fosters a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment within the association, as well as the law firms, corporations, legal service providers, and the paralegal community our members and peers support. AAPi welcomes members from all backgrounds and encourages connections within our diverse membership.
Strength through diversity includes all individuals regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, medical condition, military or veteran status, and political affiliation.
