Florida Registered Paralegals

received 7/30/2010: FRP Update     As the FRP Program is approaching its 2 1/2 year mark, we are extremely pleased that approximately 4,000 persons have voluntarily registered! This commitment continues to demonstrate to The Florida Bar and all Florida attorneys the unwavering position and pride that so many skilled paralegals have in their profession!   As members of The Florida Bar FRP Standing Committee, we are happy to report that we have been committed during this initial term to implement the intent and structure of Rule 20. We are pleased that so many issues have been discussed and resolved and that benefits have been established. To name a few, (1) the Bar's computer system had to be fully upgraded to integrate our program; (2) the Committee, through the application process for applicants, was able to identify glitches in the Rule and drafted recommended changes to submit to the Supreme Court when appropriate; (3) two Public Forums were conducted providing opportunities to comment on the program and to solicit input on the grandfathering and approved paralegal program provisions resulting in the affirmation of the grandfathering sunset provision and the strengthening of what constitutes an approved paralegal program; (4) providing FRP's many of the same benefits afforded Bar members, the development of an FRP Logo and the establishment of the FRP Corner of The Florida Bar News; and (5) the reporting of CLE is in place, and FRPs are able to submit their CLE and are provided an almost immediate summary of their standing for continuing education requirements. These accomplishments have been incredible, and thanks go to Lori Holcomb Pius, Scott Rubin, committee chair, other members of our Committee and Bar staff for implementing Rule 20 in a manner that has been almost seamless to many FRPs.   Now, it is time to continue with issues that were secondary at the inception of Rule 20. Most importantly, we are well aware that many paralegals in this State desire some form of mandatory regulation. In that light, the paralegal members of the FRP Standing Committee added this item to the discussion agenda in late 2009, with the result being the Standing Committee recently drafted a Resolution (copy attached) for consideration by the Bar's Board of Governors to form a committee specifically to study that issue. We are pleased to report that a presentation was made last week to the Bar's Program Evaluation Committee, and the Resolution received approval for a recommendation to the Board of Governors to form a special study committee. The Board of Governors accepted such recommendation, and a study committee will be formed! Another milestone for our profession!   At this date, we do not know all of the specifics regarding the to-be-formed special study committee. What we do know is that the committee will be comprised of nine members – 3 attorneys and 3 paralegals, all of which will be appointed by the Bar President, and 3 attorney members from the PEC Committee who are conducting the “standard” program evaluation of the FRP program.   As we learn more, we will be sure to report it. In the meantime, if you have any interest and the time commitment that would be required to be on such committee, we would suggest that you submit your resume to Lori Holcomb Pius at the Bar through the FRP designated email, FRP@flabar.org.   Karen S. McLead, CP, FRP Vera Long, ACP, FRP Tana Stringfellow, CP, FRP   Signed FRP Resolution