Allison is a paralegal just starting her career in a family practice law firm. She has had little practical experience during an internship in a firm specializing in Probate and Estate Planning. Her supervising attorney scheduled an initial appointment for a prospective client seeking a divorce, which she will be unable to keep. However, because this is the initial appearance, and Allison has proven to be rather bright, she has asked Allison to do the interview. Describe what tasks and considerations Allison must address for an effective interview.

What will be an ideal response?


Allison must consider the sensitive nature of the family law practice. 
She must understand the potential adversarial nature that matters in divorce can take. 
She must remember that she is hearing only the prospective client's side of the story. 
Allison must treat the party with respect, not giving her opinion or judgment. 
She must record (take notes), and get information from the client using the fact-gathering procedures of the employer firm.
She must not offer any independent legal advice.

Legal Studies & Paralegal

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