About RIPAThe Rhode Island Paralegal Association (RIPA), incorporated in 1979, is a voluntary non-profit association. It works to enhance the recognition of the paralegal profession within the legal community. Members come from all areas of the legal community including private law firms, banks and corporations, the public sector and educational institutions.
In 1982, RIPA became a voting member of the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). Each year, we select a primary representative and a secondary representative as our delegates to NFPA. These representatives attend the NFPA annual and mid-year meetings and are our local voice on a national level. Our representatives receive monthly mailings from NFPA Headquarters, which provide extensive information on issues concerning paralegals across the country. This information is relayed to you through our newsletter, the ParaJournal, and this website. RIPA is managed by a board of directors, elected annually by the members. The officers of RIPA are President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Board meetings are held monthly and are open to all members. Our Mission
CommitteesEducation
The Education Committee plans and sponsors seminars and continuing education programs taught by paralegals, attorneys and others with expertise in various areas of the law. Job Bank The Job Bank Committee provides membership with a list of job openings. This service is offered at no charge to our members. Membership The Membership Committee responds to inquiries from potential members, processes new member applications and maintains an updated mailing list. Policy and Issues The Policy and Issues Committee researches matters affecting the paralegal profession, such as accreditation, certification and ethics. It responds to requests from NFPA for local feedback on national issues. Publications The Publications Committee is responsible for publishing RIPA's quarterly newsletter, the ParaJournal, disseminating press releases, as well as the design, development, and maintenance of our website, RIparalegals.org. Public Relations The Public Relations Committee is responsible for maintaining ties with the community through the use of local media outlets and to coordinate involvement in community projects. Pro Bono Provides paralegals with volunteer opportunities in the public interest. Programs The Programs Committee plans activities and events, primarily social in nature, for the membership. It coordinates facilities and refreshments for these events. |
GovernanceLeadershipRIPA is managed by a board of directors, elected annually by the members. The officers of RIPA are President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. We are represented in the NFPA by a primary and secondary representative.
Board meetings are held monthly at Hackman & Phillips Elder Law and are open to all members, paralegal students or potential members. 2020-2021 Board of Directors: Melanie Catineault President, NFPA Secondary Roselia Perez Vice President Merrilee K. Welling Treasurer Nicole Rappoport Secretary Patricia Lyons, RP NFPA Primary |