COALA was formed in 1986 to provide a forum of communication, support, assistance and continuing education for Paralegals, as well as to establish standards and guidelines for proper and effective utilization of Paralegals by members of the Bar to provide a higher quality of legal services at a lower cost to the client.
Our mission
- To provide a forum of communication among paralegals.
- To provide a network of support and assistance among paralegals.
- To provide sources of continuing legal education to paralegals and members of the legal community, particularly in the form of seminars and workshops.
- To establish standards and guidelines for proper and effective utilization of paralegals by members of the Bar to provide a higher quality of legal services at lower cost to the client.
- To promote the paralegal as an educated and experienced professional.
- To maintain the high standards of professional responsibility and conduct imposed upon all members of the Bar.
Our goals
COALA strives to meet its goals and objectives through the instigation and continuation of activities designed to promote the paralegal profession. Some ongoing activities, include:
- Monthly continuing legal education meetings.
- Seminars and workshops for paralegals.
- Participation in State and County Bar activities, such as Law Day.
- Scholarships for students enrolled in ABA approved legal assistant programs and for COALA Members taking the NALA CP or ACP exam.
Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do.
— Potter Stewart