KNOW, the Magazine for Paralegals Fall/Winter 2013.2 | Página 4

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief I ’m beginning to believe that the paralegal field hosts more changes in the legal field than any other position. Why? Good question. First of all, all year I’ve heard opposite ends of the spectrum: the paralegal field is expected to increase by 18% by 2020 (or thereabouts) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Apparently, this is not a stunning figure, it’s average. And, that information is old - pre-recession old. On the other end of the spectrum are the doom and gloom soothsayers saying it’s all over for paralegals: associates are taking on paralegal work; firms have cut down, the paralegal work is going away. Actually, the truth is somewhere in the middle. In our brand new column this issue, Teri Cannon, Stacey Hunt and Nancy Heller introduce The Future of Paralegals, a column guaranteed to open your eyes that to stay in this field, you’re going to have to constantly acquire new skills. The work isn’t going away, the writers predict. It just looks differently. Paralegals who stand out in the field are finally getting recognition. Our story on Jamie Collins demonstrates how perseverance, determination and focus can turn you into a leader among paralegals - quite a feat in a field that recognizes leaders regionally rather than nationally. Have you prepared your will? No? Tina Johnson writes a strong and hardhitting piece on what will happen if you don’t and how to turn around and face the grim reaper. Not something I wanted to do - until I read her article, that is. And now, for a bit of fun! Paralegal Knowledge Institute is hosting its first annual KNOWLEDGE CRUISE to the Bahamas! Earn up to 12 CLEs free. Join paralegals from all over the country for 3 days and 4 nights of food, swimming, island shopping, spas, rock climbing, golf, dancing and more! It’s going to be a time to remember - don’t miss it! This issue has little fluff and pulls no punches. Each article is guaranteed to give you at least one golden gem of information. Read, enjoy and let us know. We aim to please over here. Happy reading! Chere Estrin Editor-in-Chief [email protected] 4