2025 Spring Virtual Conference
American Association for Paralegal Education
March 19 – 21, 2025 | All Times Eastern Download Agenda as pdf
Wednesday, March 19
Session Abstract
The paralegal profession is at a pivotal moment, with advancements in AI and legal technology reshaping traditional workflows and practice areas. In this session, we explore how paralegals can harness these innovations while maintaining ethical integrity and meeting the evolving demands of the profession. Drawing insights from the Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum, we will provide actionable strategies to future-proof careers and improve access to justice. This presentation will also highlight case studies across diverse practice areas, emphasizing prompt engineering, automation, and adaptive learning. Join us to gain a roadmap for success in the ever-changing legal landscape.
Learning Objectives
- Understand Trends: Learn about key findings from the Future of Jobs Report 2025 and their implications for paralegals across various practice areas.
- Ethics in Innovation: Explore the ethical considerations and best practices for integrating AI and legal technology into paralegal workflows, including ABA Model Rule 1.1 on competence.
- Practical Applications: Discover how prompt engineering, automation, and tailored workflows can enhance efficiency while upholding professional standards.
Target Audience
Adjunct Faculty
Session Format
60-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Kelli Radnothy is a freelance litigation paralegal and resource consultant with nearly 20 years in the legal industry. She currently serves as a course designer and adjunct instructor for the University of WA Continuum College’s Paralegal Program. Kelli also serves as a resource consultant for a non-profit organization empowering survivors of trafficking, sexual assault, and domestic violence. Her portfolio focuses on advancing and supporting the paralegal profession and includes extensive experience in complex litigation, trials, legal technology, eDiscovery, and pro bono humanitarian relief projects. Kelli holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Northern AZ University, a Paralegal Certificate from Miramar College, and an eDiscovery & Litigation Technology Certificate from UCSD Extension. She is passionate about creating alliances to connect system and community-based advocates to enable access to vital resources. Kelli thrives in coaching, mentoring, and developing the future paralegal workforce. Focusing on continuing education, maximizing fundamental and adaptable skillsets, stress manage
Kristine Custodio Suero is an award-winning legal professional and a highly sought-after speaker inspiring legal professionals to achieve authentic, purpose-driven careers and lives. Her nonprofit service with local, state and national paralegal associations focuses primarily on professional and leadership development. She serves as a member of the University of San Diego School of Law Paralegal Program’s Advisory Board and as Adjunct Faculty. In 2020, Kristine was selected as the California Paralegal of the Year, awarded by the California Alliance of Paralegal Associations and nominated by the San Diego Paralegal Association. Kristine is a graduate of the 2021 International Leadership Association Leadership Education Academy. She is currently a Senior Paralegal/Business Development Director for Schechter Benefits Law Group LLP specializing in ERISA/employee benefits law, business law and civil litigation. Kristine may be reached at kristine.custodio@gmail.com.
Session Abstract
Join a dynamic panel of experienced paralegals and paralegal educators as they explore the foundational role of "Introduction to Paralegal/Legal Studies" in shaping students' academic and professional journeys in the legal field. This session will demonstrate how the course serves as a crucial stepping stone for students, equipping them with essential legal principles, career pathways, and continuing education. Through the insights of the panelists, educators will gain an appreciation for how the course supports students’ growth both in the classroom and in their careers. This session will further examine effective teaching strategies aimed at enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. Panelists will share best practices in active learning techniques, as well as the value of mentoring that fosters a supportive learning environment. By adopting these approaches, educators can better prepare students for the realities of the legal profession and help them thrive both in their studies and careers. Finally, the session will focus on identifying and utilizing external resources to enrich the learning experience. The panelists will discuss how professional organizations offer invaluable support and networking opportunities, while supplementary materials and certification can expand students’ professional horizons. By the end of the session, participants will have practical strategies and insights to create a more effective and engaging learning experience for students in "Introduction to Paralegal/Legal Studies," helping them succeed academically and professionally in the legal field.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize how Introduction to Legal Studies provides a foundational framework that fosters students’ academic growth and professional development in the legal field
- Explore effective teaching strategies and tools to enhance student engagement and learning
- Identify and utilize external resources to enrich the student learning experience and broaden their professional opportunities
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute workshop
Speaker Bio
Deana Waters, ACP, Deana Waters is a seasoned paralegal with 15 years of experience, specializing in civil litigation, family law, workers' compensation, and collections. She holds the Certified Paralegal (CP®) credential and the Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP®) credential in Discovery. Since 2006, she has been an esteemed faculty member at the University of Alaska Fairbanks’(UAF) Community & Technical College Paralegal Studies Program and currently serves as Program Coordinator. Her teaching expertise encompasses a wide range of legal subjects, including introduction to paralegal studies, ethics, civil procedure, torts, family law, constitutional law, and advanced legal writing.
Session Abstract
Many of our paralegal programs are now settled in, or planning to move to, a fully online format. How do we ensure that our online classroom, our LMS, is formatted in a way that best suits our students, yet still delivers rich legal content? South Suburban College located in the South Chicago Suburbs, received its first nationally certified Quality Matters course in its Fundamentals of Paralegalism course in October 2023. Quality Matters is an internationally recognized, nonprofit organization that reviews the design of online courses through a peer-review and rubric process. This session discusses the process to certification, as well as benefits, from both the instructor’s perspective as well as the college’s Manager of Instructional Design.
Learning Objectives
- What “Quality Matters” is & the process for obtaining course certification
- How Quality Matters can improve the design of your online course
- Additional program benefits of Quality Matters Certification outside the classroom
Target Audience
Others
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
_compressed-page-001.jpg)
Speaker Bio
Becky Walters is the Law & Paralegal Studies and Criminal Justice Program Coordinator and tenured Legal Studies Professor, at ABA-approved South Suburban College in South Holland, Illinois. She also currently serves as a Special Assistant State’s Attorney in Cook County assigned to the Criminal Appeals Division. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her Juris Doctorate from DePaul University College of Law. She earned her Master Online Teaching Certificate from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2023. Walters served as a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for nearly 12 years. As an ASA assigned to the Alternative Prosecution and Sentencing Unit, Walters led a team of ASAs screening Chicago felony cases for all the Cook County Problem-Solving Courts and Deferred Prosecution Programs. She was awarded first place in the 2020 AAfPE National Teaching Competition and awarded Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year by South Suburban College in 2021. In her free time, she drives her kids to golf and dance practices.
Jamie Ackley is the Manager of Instructional Design at South Suburban College since 2021. With over two decades of experience in instructional design, specifically in online course design, Jamie has held instructional design roles at other institutions including Columbia College Chicago, Roosevelt University, University of Chicago and Joliet Junior College. Additionally, Jamie is a peer reviewer for Quality Matters, having reviewed several online courses for other colleges to ensure Quality Matters standards are met.
Session Abstract
Insert Here.
Learning Objectives
- -
- -
- -
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
60-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Insert Bio Here.
Session Abstract
What is an “introduction to legal studies”? Often, the answer boils down to an introduction to the close reading of legal texts and an introduction to legal analysis. Students don’t enter our programs reading closely, and they don’t enter our programs with the ability to effectively analyze legal problems. So, students need to be taught these foundational skills. Combine this fact with the truth that students learn best by doing and you end up with the observation that one way to effectively teach introduction to legal studies is to cooperatively work through legal problems with students. In this presentation, the presenter will give examples of how he cooperatively analyzes legal problems with his introduction to legal studies students, from the two-day reading and analysis problem that he works through with the students in the first week of class, to larger five-day reading and writing assignments, to weaving cooperative analysis through a unit on reading pleadings.
Learning Objectives
- Attendees will leave the presentation with a sense that some of the goals of an introduction to legal studies course should be improving student ability to closely read legal texts and student ability to analyze simple legal problems.
- Attendees will leave the presentation with the sense that one way to teach these skills to students is to cooperatively work through legal problems with them.
- And, attendees will leave the presentation with examples of how to cooperatively work through simple legal problems with students.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
James Croft is the chairperson of the Division of Legal Studies at St. John’s University. Prior to joining St. John’s, James worked as a corporate restructuring and bankruptcy attorney at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP. James is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and graduated from St. John’s University School of Law, magna cum laude, where he was an editor of the St. John’s Law Review. James teaches Introduction to Legal Studies, Legal Research and Legal Writing.
Session Abstract
Legal studies courses provide the cornerstone for paralegal education, introducing students to the critical thinking, legal analysis, and practical skills necessary for a successful career. This session explores effective teaching strategies for "Introduction to Legal Studies," emphasizing active learning, student engagement, and foundational knowledge development. Attendees will gain insights into fostering an inclusive learning environment that addresses diverse student needs, backgrounds, and learning preferences. We will examine pedagogical approaches integrating case studies, mock trials, and collaborative projects, allowing students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Discussion will also center on scaffolding techniques to transition students from basic legal concepts to higher-order analytical skills. Informed by ABA guidelines and educational best practices, the session provides a framework for creating comprehensive syllabi, assessing student progress, and using feedback for continuous course improvement. Educators can empower students to confidently tackle advanced coursework and professional challenges by emphasizing practical engagement and skill-building, ensuring their growth into competent and ethical legal professionals.
Learning Objectives
- Learn how to incorporate case studies, collaborative exercises, and mock trials to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
- Discover effective methods to transition students from basic legal concepts to advanced legal analysis and application.
- Understand how to design an engaging and supportive classroom environment that caters to diverse student backgrounds and learning style.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Melissa Ansley Brooks is a dedicated educator with a passion for preparing future paralegal professionals. She creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment, emphasizing critical thinking, practical application, and lifelong learning. Melissa's teaching philosophy focuses on empowering students through clear expectations, personalized guidance, and fostering confidence in their abilities. Known for her innovative teaching strategies and subject matter expertise, she bridges theory and practice to equip students with the skills needed for success in the legal field. Melissa inspires students to strive for excellence while embracing collaboration, ethical practice, and continuous growth in their professional journeys.
Thursday, March 20
Technology is changing how we practice law – and that means law schools and paralegal programs need to change how they teach it. We created the Relativity Academic Partner program to give students hands-on experience in the legal industry’s leading technology tool before they even graduate.
Session Abstract
"Teaching Unauthorized Practice of Law: Professional Identity Formation in an Evolving Legal Landscape" explores how educators can use landmark cases like Upsolve Inc. v. James to help students develop nuanced critical thinking about UPL doctrine while fostering their professional identity formation. As courts and regulators grapple with balancing traditional UPL restrictions against access to justice concerns, paralegal educators face the challenge of teaching UPL principles in a way that acknowledges these emerging tensions. This session examines how educators can move beyond simplistic "bright-line" approaches to UPL instruction and instead use recent cases to help students engage with complex questions about the role of non-lawyer legal service providers in addressing the justice gap. Through examination of regulatory reforms and evolving case law, participants will learn strategies for teaching UPL that encourage students to think critically about their future professional roles while developing sound judgment about ethical boundaries. Special attention will be paid to using doctrinal evolution as a tool for professional identity formation and ethical decision-making.
Learning Objectives
- Strategies for using evolving UPL jurisprudence to help students develop critical thinking skills and engage with complex questions about their professional role especially in regard to expanding access to justice.
- Techniques for incorporating discussions of regulatory reform and emerging UPL exceptions into instruction in ways that foster professional identity development.
- Methods for helping students understand both traditional UPL principles and contemporary developments while developing sound professional judgment about practicing within appropriate boundaries.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
60-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Megan Dorton is faculty at Portland Community College and is long time civil rights and anti-poverty lawyer..
Session Abstract
Legal Research and Writing can be an intimidating course for students. Techniques such as repetition and redrafting provide not only opportunities for learning and improvement but also give students a process for growth and encouragement. A challenging or detailed subject that uses the typical multiple-choice quiz as a learning assessment tool can perhaps be better understood if we incorporate new technology.
Learning Objectives
- Attendees will learn how to create a semester-long research and writing project using different skills to promote student mastery each week.
- Attendees will be shown a pre-test example followed by a lesson plan that helps students recall key data that may otherwise be difficult to remember.
Target Audience
Early-Career Faculty
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Jackie Van Dyke is a professor of Legal Research and Writing at both USD and GWU. She is a Certified Paralegal and also the CEO of The Paralegal Writer™, an online platform offering digital writing courses to both seasoned paralegals and paralegal students. Jackie is a member of several regional paralegal associations and has published numerous articles on the topic of legal writing.
Sheila Grela is a seasoned litigation paralegal and Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) in eDiscovery who has a paralegal certificate, with honors, from the USD Paralegal program. Sheila is both a Review Management Specialist (RRMS) and a Certified eDiscovery Specialist (CEDS). Sheila is a fierce advocate for training, education, mentorship, and professional development for the legal community.
Session Abstract
Culture encompasses our interactions within family and social groups; each student brings their unique cultural perspective to class. Many of our students are the children of immigrant families, first-generation college students, or both. While integrating my immigrant experience to better connect with those students, I employ tools like rote learning, frequent repetition, mnemonics, oral presentations, research, writing assignments, and a hypothetical I refer to throughout the semester. Learning preferences are closely tied to culture, and my goal is to foster multiculturalism by accommodating diverse learning styles. Whether our Legal Studies students proceed to law school or enter the workforce directly, they must be organized, resourceful, and possess strong oral communication skills. In preparing cases at a law firm, attorneys and paralegals must work efficiently. Civil procedure and the foundational concepts of civil litigation can seem foreign and complex to many students, often deemed "boring." This article provides an overview of the first six weeks of our civil litigation course, outlining initial class discussions and assignments.
Learning Objectives
- Challenge students to identify legal issues.
- Learn the role and duties of a paralegal.
- Trial team analysis of court jurisdiction, statute of limitations, venue, potential defendants, and distinguishing between individual and municipal liability. The team/group approach is carried on throughout the semester, especially during the discovery phase, which allows both group and independent involvement. The exercise encourages critical thinking, and fosters independent and group discussions.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Roberto E. Cosentino is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Legal Studies at St. John’s University. As a trial lawyer, managing attorney, and partner, he has resolved over 100 cases at the trial stage and achieved numerous favorable verdicts for his clients in his 25 years of practice. He is a member of the New York, Florida, and Connecticut bar. Mr. Cosentino is a member of the Committee on Character and Fitness for the New York State Appellate Division, First Department. He remains “of counsel” to the Pillinger Miller Tarallo, LLP law firm.
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Session Abstract
For Teaching Introduction to Paralegal Studies, I would present how I have implemented a Paralegal Panel that comes into the classroom each semester. Describe how this works and the benefits students receive from this, and do a Q & A. The Panel has been a significant part of the course. I use it as an Applied Learning experience for the students. I require a paper to be written in APA over the panel experience.
Learning Objectives
- How to implement a paralegal panel within paralegal studies to gain applied learning for students.
- How to implement a paralegal panel within paralegal studies to gain applied learning for students.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Program Director for the Legal Studies Program at Missouri Western State University in the Criminal Justice Legal Studies Department. Crystal is an alumnus of the University with thirty-two years of experience in the field. Crystal is pursuing a Master of Social Work at Missouri Western, interning at Healing Stream Wellness Group through the River Church of St Joseph, for which she is a co-developer. Before working for Missouri Western, Crystal worked for a law firm, practicing in multiple areas of law and, more recently, specializing in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law. There, she worked directly with clients daily to assist them in developing a plan to pay their debt without losing their assets, rebuilding their credit, and obtaining and maintaining financial stability.
Friday, March 21
Session Abstract
Engaging paralegal students in the classroom requires innovative approaches to help them build the confidence and communication skills necessary for success in the legal profession. This presentation explores the integration of improv techniques as a powerful tool to enhance student engagement and oral advocacy skills. Rooted in creativity and collaboration, improv exercises such as “The Expert” and “Yes, And” encourage active participation, quick thinking, and adaptability—key attributes for legal professionals navigating complex interactions. Participants will learn how these techniques can transform classroom dynamics, foster confidence in public speaking, and simulate real-world scenarios paralegals may encounter in client interviews, courtroom interactions, and team collaborations. This session will include practical demonstrations, adaptable exercises, and strategies for aligning improv activities with core learning objectives in legal education. Join us to discover how the principles of improvisation can energize your teaching and prepare students for dynamic professional communication.
Learning Objectives
- Attendees will learn how to incorporate improv exercises like “The Expert” and “Yes, And” into their teaching to enhance student engagement, foster creativity, and build confidence in oral advocacy.
- Participants will gain strategies for using improv to simulate real-world scenarios, such as client interviews and courtroom interactions, helping students develop adaptability, quick thinking, and effective communication.
- Attendees will explore how to align improvisational activities with paralegal program outcomes, ensuring that these techniques support critical skills needed for professional success in the legal field.
Target Audience
Early-Career Faculty
Session Format
60-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Professor Yamen is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Legal Studies at St. John’s University. A graduate of Hofstra University School of Law, she is accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, advocating for veterans’ benefits. In her practice, she supports small businesses, start-ups, and expedition athletes in contract negotiations. Her diverse research spans the American Rule, legal inconsistencies in customs and border protection, the duty to rescue, landlord/tenant law, and the risks of equity crowdfunding. Passionate about connecting theory to practice, she brings real-world insights into her teaching and scholarship, empowering students for dynamic legal careers.
Session Abstract
In this session, we will explore strategies for adapting traditional, synchronous-based oral presentation assignments to an asynchronous online environment. Drawing from personal experience in developing a successful asynchronous oral presentation assignment, we will discuss concrete examples and practical tips that can enhance student participation and interaction while maintaining the flexibility of online learning. Participants will learn how to design assignments that encourage students to engage with each other’s presentations through structured peer feedback and discussion prompts, allowing students to present their ideas and respond to their peers in a detailed and timely manner. We will also incorporate clear guidelines and rubric metrics that assess the content of the presentations and the quality of interactions among students. By implementing these practices, we can foster a sense of community and collaboration in an online setting, enriching the learning experience for faculty and students. This session is ideal for newer paralegal educators seeking to enhance their online teaching methods but can also be helpful to more experienced instructors who are looking to refresh their approach to oral presentations in the digital classroom. We hope participants will share their own challenges and solutions regarding oral presentations and join us to explore bridging the gap between traditional presentation formats and the unique dynamics of asynchronous learning environments.
Learning Objectives
- Engaging Assignment Design: Create an asynchronous oral presentations assignment that can boost student interaction and participation
- Effective Technology Use: Discover how simple digital tools can facilitate meaningful peer engagement in an online setting.
- Strategies for Assessment: Develop a rubric that evaluates presentation quality and peer feedback.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Mara Mooney has been a paralegal educator for over 25 years. She is a graduate of Lafayette College in Easton, PA, and Emory University School of Law in Atlanta, GA. She is a professor in the ABA-approved Legal Studies program at Clayton State University in Morrow, GA, where she also serves as the university’s LEX chapter advisor and its pre-law advisor. She has published a textbook and eight peer-reviewed articles in higher education journals, but her first love is, and will always be, teaching and engaging with students.
Session Abstract
Learning law through a specific practice area is nothing new. With Cannabis Law, the possibilities around learning practical law grow exponentially. The industry and the regulatory frameworks at the state, local, and federal levels provide a grass is greener learning experience. This session will demonstrate how to write and teach a cannabis law elective course or use practical assignments around marijuana and cannabis law and policy to heighten your introductory course or almost any law elective. Learn how!
Learning Objectives
- Use of the dynamic cannabis space to teach introductory legal concepts.
- Expand existing foundational law courses with practical and interesting cannabis related activities and assignments.
Target Audience
New Educators
Session Format
45-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Prof June McLaughlin is the author of the forthcoming textbook Cannabis Law and Practice (2025 Kendall Hunt). She is the Program Director and Chair of the Irvine Valley College ABA approved Law and Paralegal Studies program. She teaches Cannabis Law at IVC and Florida Gulf Coast University.
Session Abstract
This session explored the transformative shifts in the legal profession and how educators can prepare students to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), the normalization of remote work, and the expansion of paralegal roles, the legal field is undergoing profound changes that demand a proactive approach to legal education. The discussion began with an overview of AI technologies, such as legal research platforms, contract review software, and predictive analytics, emphasizing their ability to streamline processes and enhance efficiency. Panelists highlighted the importance of equipping students with technological literacy, critical thinking skills, and an understanding of ethical implications to navigate an AI-driven environment effectively. The session also addressed the shift towards remote work, emphasizing the need for adaptability and digital collaboration skills. Participants shared strategies for fostering virtual communication, time management, and self-discipline among students to prepare for flexible and hybrid work arrangements. Lastly, the conversation explored how paralegal roles are expanding beyond traditional administrative tasks to include substantive legal work, project management, and client-facing responsibilities. Presenters stressed the importance of incorporating interdisciplinary training, legal tech proficiency, and practical experience into curricula to align with industry demands. The session concluded with actionable recommendations, including integrating experiential learning opportunities, promoting continuous professional development, and fostering a mindset of resilience and innovation. By adapting educational practices to these changes, the legal profession can cultivate a workforce ready to embrace its dynamic future.
Learning Objectives
- Attendees will gain an understanding of how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and legal tech tools are transforming the legal profession. They will explore the practical applications, benefits, and ethical considerations of these tools in streamlining legal processes and decision-making.
- Participants will learn strategies to enhance adaptability, communication, and productivity in remote and hybrid legal workplaces. This includes mastering digital collaboration tools, time management, and virtual professional etiquette to prepare for the evolving nature of legal practice.
- Participants will examine how the roles of paralegals and other legal support professionals are evolving. They will identify the new skills and competencies required—such as project management, client engagement, and interdisciplinary knowledge—and understand how these shifts impact career opportunities and legal education.
Target Audience
New Educators
Adjunct Faculty
Online Instructors
Session Format
60-minute interactive workshop
Speaker Bio
Doug is the founder and CEO of National Society for Legal Technology (NSLT). Doug has authored multiple textbooks and is a nationally recognized expert in the field of legal technology education. Doug's textbooks are used as classroom curriculum in over 320 universities and colleges in the U.S. and Canada and have individual members in 11 countries around the world. Doug is an Adjunct Professor at Mt. San Antonio College, Daemen University, and Pasadena City College. Doug also serves on the Technology Advisory Group for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).