The definition of “original document” in the Macmillan Dictionary states, “Existing at the beginning of a period or process, before any changes have been made.” It is no secret that hundreds if not thousands of pieces of paper pass through a paralegal’s hands each day. We are charged with the responsibility of organizing, indexing and being aware of the location of those documents at all times. It is crucial that paralegals understand the importance of tucking away the original documents for safe keeping. This is where a working copy comes into play. I have relied upon my working copy to save the day on countless occasions.
For my paralegal friends who still utilize the paper system including me at one time or another we have all looked in a file folder for documents only to come up empty-handed. The originals that were supposed to be in the file are mysteriously missing. A 20-minute treasure hunt then ensues to locate the originals. For those paralegals involved in the paperless office and electronic retention, imagine a key document was not properly scanned, perhaps missing pages or an original scan has accidently been deleted from the system. It is in these exact circumstances when working copies of documents (whether in hard copy or electronic version) become so crucial.
This content has been archived. It is available through our partners, LexisNexis® and Bloomberg Law.
To view this content, please continue to their sites.
Not a Lexis Subscriber?
Subscribe Now
Not a Bloomberg Law Subscriber?
Subscribe Now
LexisNexis® and Bloomberg Law are third party online distributors of the broad collection of current and archived versions of ALM's legal news publications. LexisNexis® and Bloomberg Law customers are able to access and use ALM's content, including content from the National Law Journal, The American Lawyer, Legaltech News, The New York Law Journal, and Corporate Counsel, as well as other sources of legal information.
For questions call 1-877-256-2472 or contact us at [email protected]
